Presorted Std. U.S. Postage Paid AHI Travel
Cultural Stay Journeys 2019 | Settle in and explore in depth!
Smithsonian Institution P.O. Box 23182 Washington, DC 20026
Early Booking Savings Book by August 31, 2018
Early Booking Savings Book by August 31, 2018
Let the Journey Begin SmithsonianJourneys.org / 877.338.8687 Cover: Pantheon, Rome, Italy | Back cover: Flamenco dancer, Andalusia, Spain
Presorted Std. U.S. Postage Paid AHI Travel
Cultural Stay Journeys 2019 | Settle in and explore in depth!
Smithsonian Institution P.O. Box 23182 Washington, DC 20026
Early Booking Savings Book by August 31, 2018
Early Booking Savings Book by August 31, 2018
Let the Journey Begin SmithsonianJourneys.org / 877.338.8687 Cover: Berlin, Germany | Back cover: Ireland
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Our Cultural Stay Collection Book by August 31, 2018 for early booking savings. 4 The Smithsonian Difference 6 Cultural Stay Overview
28 18 14 36
8 At Home in the World – Hotels 10 Our Experts Italy 14 Italy’s Lake District 16 Palermo and Taormina 18 Rome New!
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20 Sorrento 22 Living in Italy – Three-Week Stay France 24 Normandy 26 Paris 28 Living in France – Three-Week Stay Spain 30 Spain’s Andalusia New! 32 Barcelona
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England and Ireland 34 London 36 County Mayo 38 Dublin New! Central Europe 40 Berlin New! 42 Kraków 44 The Swiss Alps 46 Athens and Poros 48 Small-Ship River Cruises 50 FlexAir Program 50 More Ways to Travel
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Curating the world through travel to enrich and transform lives The Smithsonian Journeys Difference
Traveling with Smithsonian Journeys is a life-changing experience. Built upon the values and passion of the Smithsonian, our journeys are designed with the same quest to increase and diffuse knowledge to all. You’ll engage with the world through the Smithsonian lens, having an immersive and transformative experience that you will not forget. And like the Smithsonian Institution, our tours enrich our guests’ lives and satisfy their curiosity about the world. Importantly, your participation benefits the work of Smithsonian’s nineteen museums, national zoo, and nine research centers, helping to make the world a better place by preserving and celebrating what we cherish from our common past, present, and future. Bring Your Destination to Life
We Know Where to Take You
Our knowledgeable and charismatic Smithsonian Journeys Experts, dedicated Travel Directors, and other staff will enrich your experience in a unique and personal way, bringing an insider’s perspective to every itinerary.
From charming hotels with scenic views to legendary establishments in vibrant capitals, and boutique properties in historic city centers to ideally situated apart/hotels, you’ll always stay in comfort and style. Best of all, the array and superior quality of the services and amenities allow you to maximize the enjoyment of your stay.
Behind-the-Scenes Access From people to places, our connections provide you with behind-the-scenes access to iconic sites, knowledgeable guides, local experts, and exclusive events all over the world, adding even more meaning and authenticity to your travel experience. Travel with New Friends On any given trip, you’ll be sure to forge lasting friendships with travelers who share your passion for learning and exploration. Our journeys are welcoming for solo travelers, couples, families, and friends. Plus, our arrangements deliver a well-planned journey so you’ll never feel herded or rushed. 4
We’ve Got Everything Covered When you travel with us, there is no need for exhaustive planning or worrying about travel logistics. Our first-rate staff manages every aspect of your trip to ensure the highest quality and provide you with comfortable, stress-free travel. Discover Real Value Once you add up the extras that we include— experts, travel directors, enrichment, meals, excursions, transfers, and little luxuries—you’ll know you’re getting more than you pay for. That’s what we call real value!
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We so enjoyed our fellow travel companions! Such a diverse group and something to be learned from each of them! Deborah S., Living in Italy 5
Living in same city for an extended period of time gave us the opportunity to experience the culture and the people. Virginia L., Living in France
Living In... Immersive three-week stays in Aix-en-Provence or Florence A memorable opportunity awaits solo travelers, couples, and friends eager to live the famously relaxed and graceful lifestyles of Provence or Tuscany while learning about the culture, history, and language. Fulfill your dream of living abroad during a three-week immersion program where you can customize your stay with scheduled activities and personal interests. (See pages 22 and 28 for more details). Each departure is limited to 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Ronda, Spain
Program features:
Discover a journey that lasts a lifetime Above: Cooking class with fellow travelers | Above right: xxxxx
Cultural Stay Programs
Book by August 31, 2018 SAVE $250 per person on all Cultural Stay and Living In Programs.
I enjoyed learning the history more thoroughly while visiting the sites we toured than I would have had I gone on my own. I also enjoyed meeting the other people who were on the trip who brought along their own perspectives and knowledge which enhanced the experience. Monica B., County Mayo
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Cultural Stay Programs include: Choose a one-week stay from among 17 unique destinations and explore a locale in depth. Discover cosmopolitan Barcelona, London, or Paris; get to know vibrant cities like Dublin, Berlin, or Kraków; or discover magnificent landscapes in Italy’s Lake District, Ireland’s County Mayo, or the Swiss Alps. Whatever your choice, you’ll enjoy the place and its environs, meet with local people, and stay in delightful centrally located accommodations. Or delve deeper with an immersive three-week “Living In” stay in Aix-en-Provence or Florence (see page 7). Each journey brings you closer to iconic sites, takes you off the beaten track to hidden gems, and introduces you to the locale’s unique character through specially arranged cultural encounters. Enjoy a Calvados tasting in Normandy to sample the region’s famous apple brandy, see a traditional performance by Irish dancers and musicians, or visit a family-owned olive farm in Sicily to learn how olive oil is made.
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Well-rounded programs are a hallmark of Smithsonian Journeys, recognized for signature touches such as day trips, culinary demonstrations, special excursions, engaging presentations, and lively discussions. Experience the camaraderie of traveling with a group, but also take advantage of ample free time to pursue your own interests. You’ll come away with a fresh, new perspective that will transform your travel experience. A Note on Activity Level Our cultural stays are full immersive programs. They are ideal for travelers in good health with overall good mobility, and who are comfortable participating in at least three hours of group activity per day. Many excursions require walking for extended periods of time during museum and city tours. If you have any concerns about your ability to participate in a tour, one of our Cultural Travel Specialists will be happy to assist you.
• A small group of no more than 28 guests • A Smithsonian Journeys Expert, who will enrich your travel experience through in-depth discussions about the significance of the places visited • A Smithsonian Journeys Travel Director, who is dedicated to all on-site details to ensure a comfortable, stress-free journey • Our FlexAir program to provide you with flexibility and choice to personalize your air travel (see page 50 for details) • No single supplement charges for solo travelers on some programs (limited availability) • Accommodations in distinctive lodgings that offer the best combination of quality, ambiance, and location (see pages 8-9) • Most meals, including all breakfasts (B) and many lunches (L) and dinners (D), plus welcome and farewell events • Authentic experiences to broaden your understanding of other cultures
• Smithsonian Journeys Travelers’ Corners, informal discussions about daily highlights with fellow travelers and your Smithsonian Journeys Expert • Personal listening devices so you won’t miss a word • All gratuities including your Travel Director, local guides, drivers, hotel and restaurant staff, and more • Pre-departure planning documents, including packing and travel suggestions and a comprehensive, annotated reading list • Complimentary airport transfers for FlexAir travelers and those able to meet at a scheduled departure time
• A team of local experts who provide insightful presentations on art, history, and culture and join you on excursions to local sites • An engaging and resourceful resident Travel Director, who handles logistics and helps you plan your free time • Many included meals, plus a kitchenette in your Apart/Hotel to prepare meals on your own • The opportunity to personalize your experience with special enrichment tracks (at an additional cost) • Language Lessons: Sign up for an immersive language course tailored to your skill level • Cuisine: Discover the region’s culinary traditions through interactive cooking demonstrations, hands-on classes, and shopping excursions • Art: Visit additional sites of artistic significance accompanied by an expert
• Luggage handling for one bag per guest
• Day trips to nearby historic towns
• Included on-tour emergency evacuation insurance (up to $100,000), medical expense coverage (up to $25,000), dental expense coverage (up to $500), and travel medical and worldwide travel assistance (U.S. residents only, excluding U.S. territories)
• Accommodations in a modern, spacious Apart/Hotel, featuring Wi-Fi, TV, a wellequipped kitchenette, and laundry service, plus a friendly, helpful staff
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PARADOR DE ANTEQUERRA | ANTEQUERRA, SPAIN
HOTEL UNICUS PALACE | KRAKÓW, POLAND
GRAND HOTEL ATLANTIS BAY | TAORMINA, SICILY
At home in the world Let the journey begin Your accommodations enhance your overall experience and are often integral to a memorable trip. With Smithsonian Journeys, you can be assured of distinctive properties that reflect the character and ambiance of the local culture and meet the high standards you expect.
HOTEL PLAZA SORRENTO | SORRENTO, ITALY
RENAISSANCE BARCELONA HOTEL | BARCELONA, SPAIN
We have traveled the world to evaluate hundreds of hotels for our Cultural Stay programs to ensure you stay in quality, well-located properties imbued with charm and style. Our selection process promises that you’ll return each evening to a well-appointed room with the comforts and amenities you expect. At many of these hotels, you will enjoy convenient features such as room service, restaurants, fitness facilities, and wellness centers. These first-class hotels, often a distinctive boutique property or a family-owned hotel, offer satisfying comforts at the end of an exciting day when you might watch a sunset from the hotel’s rooftop or sip a local vintage on a sun-splashed terrace. The apartment-style properties on our “Living In” programs allow you to live in another country like a local as you become a regular at the corner café and prepare a homemade meal in your fully equipped kitchenette.
DAVENPORT HOTEL | DUBLIN, IRELAND
The Hotel Unicus Palace was very nice, especially the proximity to the Old Town. I thought the dinning area was beautiful! It had a charm I had never seen before anywhere and truly loved. Christine K., Krakow HOTEL FREIENHOF (SMALLER CLOCK TOWER IN CENTER) | THUN, SWITZERLAND HILTON BERLIN | BERLIN, GERMANY
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Providing in-depth understanding and a sense of wonder
famine cottages, and we will see many of them while we explore the beauty of this incredible area. Finally, people have lived on this island for thousands of years and we are lucky enough to still have evidence of this by way of ancient stonework and burial tombs, which we also will get to explore and see on our journey throughout the west of Ireland.
Our Experts
Q. How do you infuse your tours with your expertise?
Among the experts who accompany you on your journey are scholars from around the world—with in-depth understanding of history, culture, politics, the natural world, or the fine arts—who have been
Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
selected by Smithsonian Journeys for their special knowledge and ability to connect with people. Our travelers continue to tell us that our experts are a major reason they come back to Smithsonian Journeys again and again. Meet some of our experts and read about the tours they will lead in the pages that follow.
Hilary Lennon is an expert in Irish Literature and the Humanities. She completed her Ph.D. at Trinity College Dublin before taking up the position of the Harriet O’Donovan Sheehy Fellow in the School of English, University College Cork. Hilary has now returned to TCD as the Frank O’Connor Research Fellow. Her primary research focus is on Irish writers, culture, and history. Hilary edited and contributed to Frank O’Connor: Critical Essays (2007) and her Selected Letters of Frank O’Connor is forthcoming from Cork University Press. She is also working on a monograph on Irish Literary Letter-Writing.
Greek theater and Mount Etna, Taormina, Sicily
Hilary will lead the June departure of County Mayo: A One-Week Stay in Northwest Ireland (page 36). Q. What are the highlights of our County Mayo tour?
Allan Langdale was the best thing. He made all of Sicily come alive. I would take any trip where he is the Smithsonian Journeys Expert. Larry N.
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Allan Langdale is an art and architectural historian, filmmaker, photographer, and travel writer who received his Ph.D. in art history from UC Santa Barbara. He has taught courses in Italian Renaissance art, Byzantine art, East Indian art, and Islamic art and currently teaches art history at UC Santa Cruz and film studies at UC Santa Barbara. Allan’s most recent book is Palermo: Travels in the City of Happiness (2015).
Carol Reynolds is a cultural and musical historian. Her research interests include German Romanticism and the musical court of Frederick the Great. Carol’s popular Discovering Music: 300 Years of Interaction in Western Music, Arts, History, and Culture (2009) has reached students across the world. In 2011, she released a crossdiscipline course called Exploring America’s Musical Heritage. She is now creating a curriculum on the history of sacred music from Jewish Liturgy to 1600.
Paul Tegmeyer is an art historian who specializes in the art and history of Rome. He is presently completing his dissertation on The Judgment of Raphael for a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. Paul has taught in the Department of Art History at Rome's John Cabot University since 1991 and teaches at the Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies. He lives in L’Aquila, Italy with his Italian wife and daughter.
Allan will lead the May departure of Palermo and Taormina: A Stay in Sicily (page 16).
Carol will lead the June departure of of Berlin: A One-Week Stay in Germany (page 40).
Paul will lead the April departure of Rome: A One-Week Stay in Italy (page 18).
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A. This is a wonderful, wide-ranging tour featuring several, truly special sites. One such event is the trip to the beautiful Lissadell House, the home of one of our leading female revolutionaries during the Irish fight for independence - Countess Markievicz. Her good friend and the famous poet, William Butler Yeats, was also a regular visitor to this great house and he features it in some of his best-known poems. This tour also visits the stunning landscape of Connemara. The ravishes of the Great Irish Famine can still be felt and seen in this countryside with the remains of
A. My areas of expertise are in Irish literature, history, and culture, and I bring extensive knowledge of Irish culture with me, to share with my fellow travelers while we journey around together. The West of Ireland holds a very special place in Irish cultural history and in the story of Ireland's fight for independence. I bring this subject to life while we visit places like the wonderful Achill Island. The history and arts of this country are etched into this western landscape, and I talk in detail about these topics over the course of the tour. Q. What sort of topics do you like to include in your presentations? A. I talk quite a bit about Irish history throughout the entire tour, covering both ancient and modern history, and my aim to always provide a broad but insightful picture to our travelers of Ireland and its people. In addition, I extensively talk about our writers and poets, as this is country which has excelled on an international scale in the field of literature. Included in all this, I feature continual chats about Irish culture, contemporary politics, and its beautiful landscape. Q. What do you enjoy most about accompanying Smithsonian Journeys travelers? Without question, I always learn so much from Smithsonian Journeys travelers. The lively and enthusiastic discussions are always great, and their questions always make me think about my topics and causes me to reflect on the lectures. A Smithsonian Journeys tour for me is always a really stimulating and enjoyable experience.
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Leonardo da Vinci Monument, Milan
Q. What keeps you coming back to Italy?
Christopher Griffin is from County Galway in the West of Ireland. He studied literature at Trinity College, University College in Dublin, and at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Christopher as published many scholarly articles and theater reviews, and he has led numerous classes on various interests, including Irish literature, Shakespeare, and Film. He will lead the September departure of County Mayo, A One-Week Stay in Northwest Ireland (page 36).
Cassandra Potts Hannahs is a historian who specializes in medieval history. As a university professor, she taught courses on a wide range of subjects from ancient history through the Reformation. A Fulbright scholar and recipient of several grants, Cassandra explores the cultural and political exchanges that have historically linked Great Britain, France, Ireland, and Scandinavia in her research and lectures.
A. The art, of course, but primarily the people! Whenever I am in Florence I always make sure to spend time with the family who hosted me as a student 40 years ago. They taught me so much about the rhythms of Italian life and introduced me to the fresh, seasonal variety of Italian cooking. Over the years Renata and Gilberto have shown my wife Nancy and me how to make rustic bread in a wood-fired oven and enjoy wild porcini mushrooms on top of crostini and in rich pasta and meat dishes. Now I know why Italians say, “A tavola non si invecchia mai” [at the table one never grows old].
Gary’s passion for and knowledge of Italy added great value to this trip. His presentations were insightful and fun to listen to. Daniel T.
She will lead the August 1 departure of London: A One-Week Stay in England (page 34).
Gary Radke is one of the world’s leading experts on Italian Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture, with a special interest in 15th-century Florentine sculpture. He served as Dean’s Professor of the Humanities and professor of art history at Syracuse University. Gary is a Fellow of the American Academy in Rome, and he has curated exhibitions on Michelangelo, Leonardo di Vinci, and Lorenzo Ghiberti, among others. Gary will lead the May departure of Italy’s Lake District: A One-Week Stay in Stresa (page 14). Q. What do you feel are the benefits of traveling to Italy, a country well-known to many travelers, on a Cultural Stay program with Smithsonian Journeys?
Gillian’s expertise made so many of the ancient areas we visited come to life. She made it possible to truly step back in time. Bridget M.
Gillian Hovell is both a classical historian and an archaeologist. She is an award-winning freelance writer, author, and public speaker, specializing in archaeology, prehistory, and in the Greek and Roman eras. Gillian shares her passion for ancient history in person, in books, in the field, in the media, and online. She actively digs at major sites and supports community archaeology projects in a hands-on way.
Allen Fromherz is an associate professor of Mediterranean and Middle East history at Georgia State University in Atlanta. He received his Ph.D. from St. Andrews University in Scotland and is the author of numerous books. Allen has held several international fellowships, and his regular classes on Medieval Spain and the Mediterranean focus on convivencia, how Muslims, Jews, and Christians, living together, created a common culture that still lives on in Iberia to this day.
Gillian will lead the April and September departures He will lead the October departure of Spain’s of Sorrento: A One-Week Stay in Italy (page 20). Andalusia: A One-Week Stay in Antequerra (page 30). 12
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Ursula Rehn Wolfman is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Born in Steinfeld, Austria, Ursula is an independent scholar who formerly worked with the National Gallery of Art in Washington, and her particular field of interest is the relationship between the arts, literature, painting/sculpture, architecture, and music. She will lead the July departure of The Swiss Alps: A One-Week Stay in Thun (page 44) and the September departure of Kraków: A One-Week Stay in Poland (page 42).
A. Every Italian city and town has its own rhythms and points of pride that can only be truly savored and understood over time. Italians live in their streets as much as their homes. On a Cultural Stay program, you have time to take daily strolls, seeing the same people over and over, appreciating the rhythms of daily life, greeting locals – and perhaps even becoming acquainted. You’ll begin to notice when the green grocer sets up her shop and how many of her friends can’t wait to greet her day after day. What is more, your tour leader, guides, and Smithsonian Journeys Expert are there to help you understand anything that may strike you as odd or unusual, not to mention sharing your delight in everyday life.
Q. What kinds of insights do you hope to bring to our travelers? A. There is so much to see in Italy that it can be overwhelming, so I urge people to slow down and focus on a few things at a time. Looking carefully helps us see how an artist applied paint, how a sculptor modeled figures, or how architects shaped their buildings. As an art historian, I also enjoy revealing how works of art reflect and embody broader religious, political, economic, and social values. Art mattered in the Renaissance because everyone understood its public relations and publicity value. As far as I am concerned, beautiful art and architecture is even more beautiful and impressive when we know who paid for it, why it was made, and what people thought of it in their own time. Q. What do you enjoy most about accompanying Smithsonian Journeys travelers? A. Smithsonian Journeys travelers are always eager for new experiences. I love our travelers’ enthusiasm and openness to exploration. Each group brings together a diverse group of people who ask different kinds of questions and see things from different points of view. They learn from each other as well as from me, not only sharing tips about practical matters but musing together on what strikes them as curious and intriguing. Smithsonian Journeys travelers love learning, and they love life.
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Borromean Islands, Lake Maggiore
Day 4 – Borromean Islands | Excursion: Borromean Islands. Begin your outing with a cruise on Lake Maggiore aboard a private motorboat. Arrive at Isola Madre and enjoy a guided visit of the island’s botanical gardens. You may also see peacocks, parrots, and pheasants. Embrace the rustic charm of Isola dei Pescatori, a peaceful fishing village, and visit Isola Bella, the “Beautiful Island.” Explore its 17th-century baroque palace and summerhouse. Admire the hanging gardens, listen for the song of rare birds, are marvel at the Greek and Roman statuary. Enjoy a delicious lunchb at a restaurant while on Isola dei Pescatori. Educational Focus: Golden Age of the Renaissance. Join a local expert to discuss the true genius of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Trace their profound influences on sculpture and painting.
Day 5 – Bellagio | Como |
Lake Como
Itinerary Day 1 – In Transit
Italy’s Lake District
Depart for Milan, Italy.A
Day 2 – Milan | Stresa | Arrive in Milan and transferA to Stresa. Check in to the Hotel La Palma.
A One-Week Stay in Stresa
Italy’s breathtaking Lake District has inspired painters, writers, and poets for centuries. Stay in Stresa, located on Lake Maggiore, where the Alpine foothills and the brilliant blue lake fill the horizon. Explore the colorful towns around the lakes and the dynamic city of Milan, Italy’s economic and fashion capital. From romantic villas and lush gardens to an ancient basilica and legendary opera house, your journey to the spectacular Italian Lakes will be a memorable introduction to la dolce vita!
Highlights Include Lake Maggiore: Cruise on a private boat to Isola Madre to tour its impressive English-style gardens. Visit Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella with its baroque villa, outstanding art collection, and exquisite gardens. Lake Orta: Stroll along the lovely streets of San Giulio. Then sail to the enchanting Isola San Giulio and see its Romanesque basilica. 14
Join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel this evening.
Day 3 – Lake Orta | Educational Focus: The Development of the Lake District. Join a local speaker to learn about Italy’s beautiful Lake District, a haven of Alpine peaks, gardens, and glistening lakes..
The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci
Lake Como: Discover charming Bellagio with its villas and pastel houses, and admire sweeping panoramas during a private boat ride to Como. Milan: See world-famous treasures, including the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a World Heritage site and home to Leonardo’s The Last Supper. Personalize your journey with a choice of excursions: visit the Duomo and the museum of La Scala opera house or tour Milan’s fashion district. Italian Cuisine: Roll up your sleeves and learn the delicious secrets of the Italian kitchen during a cooking lesson at a restaurant in Stresa, followed by lunch.
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Excursion: Lake Orta. Enjoy a scenic drive to Orta San Giulio. During a walking tour, see the central piazza and absorb the charms of idyllic lakeside life. Board a boat to visit Isola San Giulio and appreciate the beauty of the island’s Romanesque basilica. Independent Exploration: Enjoy leisure time for lunch and make your own discoveries. Drink in the lake’s stillness from a waterfront locale or admire views from the Chiesa dell’ Assunta, a coral-hued parish church perched on a small hill. Educational Focus: Lake Maggiore’s Gardens. Be immersed in fascinating history as a local expert shares knowledge of Lake Maggiore. Learn about the powerful Borromeo family and how they transformed the tranquil islands into splendid retreats featuring palaces and landscaped gardens.
Excursion: Bellagio. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Como to Bellagio. Often thought of as the most beautiful town in Italy, Bellagio flaunts a promenade lined with lime trees and oleanders, a city center of cobblestone streets and picturesque alleyways, and charming buildings painted in shades of cream, peach, and butterscotch. Explore this enchanting village and pass by villas built by the region’s noble families. Join your fellow travelers for lunch at one of Bellagio’s lakeside restaurants. Independent Exploration: Discover Bellagio during time at leisure. Stroll along the waterfront or pause for a treat at a requisite gelato stand. Excursion: Cruising Lake Como. Travel by private boat from Bellagio to Como. Glide on deep-blue water, gloriously bathed in sunlight, while viewing the opulent villas and villages nestled along the shores. Vistas of stunning gardens, hidden waterfalls, and cypress groves will captivate your senses, while the Alps stand sentry in the background. In Como, gather for a short walking tour.
Day 6 – Stresa | Independent Exploration: Pursue your own interests during a day at leisure. This evening, gather with fellow travelers for dinner in a local restaurant. Educational Focus: Contemporary Italy. Discuss Italy’s economy, politics, and role in the European Union with a local expert.
Day 7 – Milan | Excursion: Cultural Visit to Milan. Travel to Milan and visit the Renaissance Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Witness Leonardo’s powerful masterpiece, The Last Supper.
The Alps Lake Como Bellagio Isola Bella Lake Orta Isola San Giulio
Isola Madre
Stresa
Como
Italian Lake District
Milan
HOTEL LA PALMA | STRESA Overnight
ITALY
Featured Site
Personalize Your Journey | Choose one of the following excursions. •Architecture & Music. Visit the museum at the iconic La Scala, Italy’s premier opera house, and enter the 14th-century Duomo, a Gothic wonder. •Fashion. Delve into the history of Milan’s legendary fashion scene while walking along the streets of Quadrilatero d’Oro, a trendy district. Independent Exploration: Craft your own itinerary during leisure time in Milan.
The Hotel La Palma is in a quiet, centrally located neighborhood on the banks of Lake Maggiore. The hotel has a stylish restaurant, a private beach, and a lakeside pool with superb views of the Borromean Islands. Guests can revel in a photogenic sunset from the stunning rooftop lounge, or relax in the sauna, whirlpool, or solarium. Each wellappointed guest room features a private terrace or balcony, and complimentary Wi-Fi is available.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Gary Radke | May Allan Langdale | June John Paoletti | September For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Day 8 – Stresa | Local Flavor: Flavors of Italy. Learn the secrets of traditional Italian cuisine during an interactive cooking lesson. Then sit down with your fellow travelers to delight in a delicious lunch.
Tour Dates & Prices May 7-15, 2019 June 11-19, 2019 September 17-25, 2019
Independent Exploration: Wrap up your Italian adventure with a final afternoon at leisure.
Tour Price
This evening, attend a special farewell reception, followed by a farewell dinner.
VAT is included.
Day 9 – Depart Stresa for the U.S. | Transfer to the Milan airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
$4,340
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $690 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
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Duomo, Syracuse
Day 4 – Erice | Segesta | Excursion: Erice. Visit the lovely town of Erice, perched high above Trapani harbor. See two medieval castles and walls that date from the Phoenician era, and marvel at the Romanesque architecture of the Norman Duomo. Stroll the village’s winding lanes and take in the aroma of biscuits and sweets from Erice’s many pasticcerie.
Temple of Concordia, Agrigento
Local Flavor: Visit an award-winning, familyowned olive farm for lunch. Plus, enjoy a tasting, and learn about the process of making olive oil. Excursion: Ancient Segesta. In Segesta, see a spectacular Doric temple and admire a theater carved into the side of Mount Barbaro. Educational Focus: Mafia — Past and Present. In Sicily, the Mafia is known as Cosa Nostra. Gather with a local expert to examine the legacy of the Cosa Nostra and its effect on Sicilian society.
MERCURE PALERMO EXCELSIOR CITY | PALERMO
Independent Exploration: Craft your own itinerary during an evening at leisure. Palermo
Palermo and Taormina
Itinerary
A Stay in Sicily
Day 2 – Palermo |
Join us on a journey that offers lasting impressions of the island of Sicily with stays in two very different cities. Begin in Palermo, a city pulsing with a fascinating blend of cultural influences, showcased in its Romanesque, Gothic, and baroque architecture. Located on the Tyrrhenian Sea, historic and beautiful Taormina is dominated by Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, and remarkable Greek, Roman, and Norman heritage. Over the centuries, these remarkably diverse regions have witnessed the ebb and flow of foreign armies and occupiers, including many who stayed to imprint their culture on that of Sicily.
Highlights Include Palermo and Environs: Admire Islamic and Byzantine mosaics in Palermo’s Palatine Chapel and Monreale’s cathedral. In Erice, see ancient Phoenician walls and the Castle of Venus. Discover the beautiful Romanesque cathedral in the picturesque seaside village of Cefalù. 16
Day 1 – In Transit Depart for Palermo, Italy.A
Taormina and Environs: Take in the view of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea from the medieval town of Taormina. In the ancient Greek town of Syracuse, once a strong rival of Athens, tour the Old Town of Ortygia and the archaeological park. Greek and Roman Sicily: Explore the Valley of the Temples, and see the best mosaics that remain of the Roman world at an ancient villa. Enrichment: Delve into Sicily’s history as a cultural crossroads. Learn about prize-winning virgin olive oil during lunch at a family farm.
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Excursion: Cefalú. The highlights of this pretty fishing village include a 12th-century cathedral, regarded as one of southern Europe’s greatest churches, and a Duomo with beautiful mosaics. Dine on traditional cuisine during dinner with your fellow travelers.
Arrive in Palermo and transferA to the Mercure Palermo Excelsior City.
Day 6 – Agrigento | Piazza Armerina | Taormina |
Tonight, get to know your fellow Smithsonian Journeys Travelers at a welcome reception and dinner.
Excursion: Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples. Agrigento was founded in the sixth century B.C., and it features an exceptional collection of wellpreserved ruins. Visit the Valley of the Temples, and see sanctuaries dedicated to Hercules, Concordia, and Jupiter.
Day 3 – Monreale | Palermo |
Greek theater and Mount Etna, Taormina
Day 5 – Cefalú |
Excursion: Monreale and Palermo. Discover the influences of the various peoples who settled in Sicily, a great cultural crossroads. Visit Monreale’s Santa Maria la Nuova, a cathedral with splendid mosaics, and admire views of the Conca d’Oro, the Golden Basin. Continue to Palermo and experience a lively market. Then visit Palermo’s cathedral, a blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Norman architecture. Step inside the Palatine Chapel in the Norman Palace to admire unusual mosaics that contain both Christian and Islamic motifs. See the Arab-Norman domes of Saint John of the Hermits and the Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest theater. Indulge in regional favorites during lunch. Independent Exploration: Tonight, enjoy an evening at leisure to enjoy the charm of Palermo. Discover the passeggiata, the evening stroll. This age-old custom is a time for catching up on the latest news and socializing.
Enjoy lunch in Agrigento. Excursion: Sicily’s Mosaics. Visit Piazza Armerina and the Villa Romana del Casale. Witness a display of mosaics that depict everything from scenes of daily life to flowers to plants. This visual delight is one of the best examples of Roman mosaics remaining in the world. Check in to the Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay.
Day 7 – Taormina | Excursion: Taormina. Explore the city of Taormina, situated high atop Monte Tauro. Stroll past the shops and sidewalk eateries along Corso Umberto, the main shopping street. Continue with a visit to Taormina’s ancient Greek theater, still used today because of its acoustics. Local Flavor: Visit a family-owned restaurant for a pizza-making lesson, followed by lunch.
Erice Segesta
ITALY
Palermo
Monreale
Cefalù
Taormina
Sicily Agrigento
Catania
Piazza Armerina Siracusa
Mediterranean Sea
Overnight Featured Site
Independent Exploration: Enjoy some time to explore Taormina on your own. Gather for dinner at a local restaurant
Day 8 – Syracuse | Excursion: Magnificent Syracuse. In historic Syracuse, visit the Archaeological Park, home of the city’s great ancient ruins, including the Teatro Greco and the Roman amphitheater. Continue to Syracuse’s Old Town on the island of Ortygia. Stroll the elegant Piazza del Duomo, and visit the Duomo, built on the site of the Temple of Athena. Independent Exploration: Enjoy free time in Syracuse for lunch and exploring on your own.
Day 9 – Taormina |
GRAND HOTEL ATLANTIS BAY | TAORMINA Ideally located in the heart of the city, the Mercure Palermo Excelsior City is near restaurants, shops, and the lush English Garden. Overlooking the ocean, the Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay is a restful retreat after a day of sightseeing. Both first-class hotels have complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allan Langdale | May A Smithsoniam Journeys Expert for the April and September departures will be announced soon. For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices April 24 – May 3, 2019 May 8-17, 2019 September 11-20, 2019
Independent Exploration: The day is free to pursue your individual interests in Taormina.
Tour Price
Tonight, celebrate the conclusion of your adventure at a farewell reception and dinner.
VAT is included.
Day 10 – Depart Taormina for the U.S. | Transfer to the Catania airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
$4,440
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018!
All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $695 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
17
View of St. Peter’s Square from the dome of St Peter’s basilica, Vatican City
It has evolved over the centuries into a happily bohemian enclave, with trendy restaurants, cafés, and unique boutiques. Visit Studio Cassio, an acclaimed mosaic workshop, and watch artisans at work. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Excursion: Imperial Rome. Visit the Colosseum and the Forum, proud reminders of the power and the glory of the storied ancient city. Walk through the Forum, and marvel at the arches of Titus and Constantine, which continue to stand nearly 2,000 years after they were built.
Day 5 – Rome | Independent Exploration: Make your own plans this morning for sightseeing and lunch afterward. Excursion: Borghese Gardens and Galleria. Walk through the Borghese Gardens, one of Rome’s largest parks, just a short stroll from the hotel. Continue to the Borghese Galleria and see artistic masterpieces by Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio, Bernini, and other great artists. The Forum and the Colosseum
Itinerary
New!
Rome
Day 1 – In Transit
A One-Week Stay in Italy
Day 2 – Rome |
Depart for Rome, Italy.A
TransferA to the Rose Garden Palace. Get acquainted with your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner. Immerse yourself in two millennia of civilization in Rome, a city that is like a living museum. Here, the glories of ancient Rome, the Vatican, and centuries of architectural styles serve as a backdrop to modern Roman life. The Italian capital has influenced life well outside Italy’s borders, and it still remains an epicenter of history, culture, style, and cuisine. Yet, as you explore the city, notice how the neighborhoods feel like little villages, where life centers around the local piazza. Discover firsthand the enduring charm, appeal, and romance of Rome, the Eternal City.
Highlights Include Imperial Rome: Discover ancient Rome’s legacy during a tour of the Forum, imagine the crowds cheering gladiators at the Colosseum, and gaze in wonder at the Pantheon. The Vatican: Witness the amazing treasures of the Vatican Museum galleries. In the Sistine Chapel, stand in awe of Michelangelo’s glorious frescoes. Then step inside St. Peter’s Basilica, and stroll through its collonaded square. 18
Day 3 – Rome |
Inside the Pantheon
Galleries and Villas: At the opulent Borghese Gallery, view masterpieces by Bernini, Titian, Caravaggio, and other artists. Enter the Villa Farnesina, a Renaissance gem featuring frescoes by Raphael and other painters. Off-the-Beaten Path: Explore everyday Rome during neighborhood walks of the bohemian Monti Quarter, stopping at a studio specializing in mosaics, and Trastevere, a charming medieval neighborhood on the west bank of the Tiber. Ancient Rome: Gain insight into the everyday life of Ostia, Rome’s ancient port town, and walk through the well-preserved ruins.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: The Vatican. Explore Vatican City, the world’s smallest sovereign state. Enjoy early access to the Vatican Museums. Visit the Candelabra, Tapestry and Map galleries. In the Sistine Chapel, look up to admire the marvelous frescoes, which Michelangelo spent four years creating. Continue with a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, perhaps the most famous church in the world. See the extensive art collection in the basilica, including Michelangelo’s Pietà. Afterward, stroll through St. Peter’s Square. Independent Exploration: Have lunch and explore Rome on your own this afternoon. Educational Focus: Italian Food and Wine. Each of Italy’s regions has its own specialties and style of cooking. Learn about the differences and the most famous regional dishes with a local expert.
Excursion: Rome in the Twilight. See some of Rome’s landmarks in a different light. Stroll by the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona on softly lit streets at dusk. Independent Exploration: Enjoy dinner and the remainder of the evening on your own.
Day 6 – Rome | Excursion: Beyond the Tiber. In Trastevere, visit a trio of beautiful basilicas originally built in the 3rd and 4th centuries: San Crisogono, Santa Cecilia, and Santa Maria. See a wealth of religious art and architecture. Then, at the sumptuously decorated Villa Farnesina, an early 16th-century Renaissance home, admire the priceless artwork, including frescoes by Raphael.
River Tiber
ITALY
Rome
Ostia
Tyrrhenian Sea
River Tiber Vatican City Trastevere
Borghese Gallery and Museum Hotel
Pantheon Colosseum
City of Rome
ROSE GARDEN PALACE |
ROME
The Rose Garden Palace is ideally located near the Via Veneto, the Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, the Trevi Fountain, and many more of Rome’s attractions. After a full day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your welcoming guest room. Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine at Il Roseto, the hotel’s restaurant. Fit in a swim or a workout in the fitness center.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts
Independent Exploration: Afterward, explore more of Trastevere, and have lunch on your own.
Paul Tegrneyer | April
Day 7 – Rome |
A Smithsonian Journeys expert for the September departure will be announced soon. For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Excursion: Ancient Port of Ostia. Travel to the ruins of the ancient Roman seaport of Ostia on the Tyrrhenian coast. Founded in the 4th century B.C., Ostia became the commercial gateway to Rome as well as a naval base. See the ruins of the fortress, forum, amphitheater, baths, temples, bakeries, and warehouses. Elaborate mosaic floors and murals reveal the lifestyle of the wealthiest residents. Stop for lunch during the excursion.
Dine tonight at a local restaurant.
Day 8 – Rome |
Day 4 – Rome |
Excursion: The Pantheon. Step inside one of the most iconic sites in all of Rome. Built by Marcus Agrippa in 27-25 B.C. and rebuilt by Hadrian in A.D. 119-125, the Pantheon is one of Rome’s
Excursion: Monti. See daily life unfold in this hilly Roman quarter, an everyday neighborhood that’s almost like a village within this bustling city.
Overnight Featured Site
Tour Dates & Prices
Piazza Navona
oldest buildings and certainly the best preserved. With no visible arches for support, its dome, 142 feet in diameter and 71 feet tall, is a standout.
April 24 – May 2, 2019 September 4-12, 2019
Independent Exploration: Pursue your own interests in Rome this afternoon.
Tour Price
Tonight, share memories together of your exciting week in Rome during a festive farewell dinner.
VAT is included.
Day 9 – Depart Rome for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
$4,490
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018!
All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $400 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
19
Cathedral, Amalfi
Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius
While dining on regional cuisine, meet the restaurant’s owners or employees to learn about their experiences and lifestyles. On your return to Sorrento, pass through the lovely town of Salerno. Its old town is one of Italy’s best-preserved historic centers. Educational Focus: The Wonders of Naples’ National Museum. Join a local expert to learn about the renowned museum’s fascinating collections of art and artifacts.
Day 5 – Naples |
Positano, Amalfi Coast
Itinerary
Excursion: Naples and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Naples, the capital city of Campania, welcomes visitors with a vivacious spirit. Embark on a panoramic tour of Naples. Start at the top of Posillipo Hill for a sprawling view of the city and the entire Bay of Naples. Enjoy the sights of Castel Nuovo, San Francesco di Paola, Teatro di San Carlo, and Piazza del Plebiscito. Then visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. With its collection of art and objects from Herculaneum and Pompeii, it is often cited as one of the world’s most important archaeological museums.
Sorrento
Day 1 – In Transit Depart for Naples, Italy.A
Indulge in a lunch of Neapolitan pizza, prepared with the freshest local ingredients.
A One-Week Stay in Italy
Day 2 – Naples | Sorrento |
Day 6 – Capri |
Arrive in Naples. TransferA to Sorrento and check in to the Hotel Plaza Sorrento. With breathtaking natural beauty, the region of Campania beguiles you from the start. Craggy mountains tower over the shoreline along the deep-blue Mediterranean Sea, and the sun warms the colorful villages clinging to the hillsides above sandy coves. The old-world elegance and laidback ambiance of Sorrento, Amalfi, and Positano entice you to explore and then linger. Visit ancient Roman cities, where timeworn remnants transport you to a glorious past. It doesn’t take long to understand what composer Giuseppe Verdi meant when he said, “You may have the universe if I may have Italy.”
Highlights Include The Amalfi Coast: Admire the views as you drive along the dramatic curves of the Amalfi Coast. Visit Positano, built along seaside cliffs, then take a private boat to charming Amalfi and visit the unique Cathedral of St. Andrew. Archaeological Sites: Tour three of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples in Paestum. Spend a day exploring the ancient cities of 20
Welcome to Sorrento! Begin your orientation to southern Italy’s beloved Sorrento during a brief walking tour of the town. Gather this evening to get acquainted with your fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers at a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 – Positano | Amalfi |
Sorrento
Herculaneum and Pompeii, destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Naples: Study the remarkable art and artifacts of daily Roman life unearthed in Herculaneum and Pompeii at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and see other Neapolitan highlights. Capri: Explore the captivating Isle of Capri, a sophisticated resort area since Roman times. Campania’s Cuisine: Taste locally made foods at a farm that makes Fior di Latte and presses olive oil from its own groves. Enjoy the fresh flavor and aroma of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: The Charming Amalfi Coast. Delight in the serpentine Amalfi Coast, one of the most magnificent stretches of coastline in all of Europe. A walking tour of Positano highlights hillside gardens and terraces draped with bougainvillea. Board a private boat and cruise to Amalfi. Along the way, notice the spectacular villages and pastelcolored villas clinging to the cliffs. Take a short tour of Amalfi and see its piazza and cathedral. Gather for a delectable dinner of regional flavors at a restaurant in Sorrento.
Day 4 – Paestum | Excursion: Paestum. Visit ancient Paestum, a site featuring defensive walls, the remains of three major Doric-style temples, and a variety of impressive ruins.
Excursion: The Isle of Capri. Travel by hydrofoil to the enchanting Isle of Capri, a celebrated resort since the time of the Roman Republic. Sail along the Capri coast, spying hidden swimming coves, caves, and grottos, and see why the island is described as “a piece of paradise fallen from the skies.” Back on land, stroll through Capri’s scenic lanes or browse elegant boutiques on Via Vittorio Emanuele and Via Camerelle, Capri’s main streets. There are many shops selling souvenirs, bottles of limoncello, and colorful ceramics. Pay a visit to the Augustus Gardens, incredible terraced gardens full of bougainvillea vines, marbled statues, and lily ponds. The gardens offer a spectacular seaside spot for viewing the famous Faraglioni, a trio of iconic rocks rising from the sea.
Day 7 – Herculaneum | Pompeii | Excursion: Herculaneum and Pompeii. Spend a full day exploring these ancient Roman cities. The small town of Herculaneum was preserved by mudflows while Pompeii, the larger of the two cities, was covered by ash. The preservation of the cities is unlike anything else in the world. Today, they are famous as an excavation site and outdoor museum that reveal how the people of this ancient Roman settlement lived 2,000 years ago. Unearth a captivating history lesson while touring the site.
Naples Herculaneum
Bay of Naples Sorrento
ITALY
Pompeii
Positano
HOTEL PLAZA SORRENTO | SORRENTO Amalfi
Amalfi Coast Isle of Capri
Tyrrhenian Sea
Paestum
Overnight Featured Site
Enjoy a group lunch near Pompeii. Educational Focus: Contemporary Italy. A local expert shares insight into Italian society, life in Campania, and the current situations in Italy.
Day 8 – Sorrento | Excursion: Green Side of Sorrento. Head inland to the rolling hills and visit a traditional rural farm. Tour groves of olive trees and see how olive oil is produced to create a perfect balance of flavors. See the production of Fior di Latte, a soft cheese that is similar in texture to mozzarella, and delight in a tasting of locally made products.
This cozy, contemporary, and eco-conscious hotel in the heart of Sorrento is near many of the city’s top landmarks. During your stay, enjoy friendly Italian hospitality and modern amenities. The comfortable guest rooms are well-appointed and welcoming. From Skybar and the infinity pool on the rooftop terrace, relax and take in the view of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The hotel also has a fitness room. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Gillian Hovell | April Luca Zavagno | May Gillian Hovell | September Glenn Bugh | October For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices April 17-25, 2019 May 1-9, 2019 September 18-26, 2019 October 2-10, 2019
Independent Exploration: Spend your final afternoon at leisure in Sorrento.
Tour Price
This evening, celebrate your Italian journey at a farewell reception and dinner.
VAT is included.
Day 9 – Depart Naples for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
$3,990
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $795 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
21
Left: Cathedral, Lucca Below: San Gimignano
On Tuesday, step inside the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Baptistery during the first meeting of the Art & Architecture track. Language classes continue. On Wednesday, at the first Culinary session, a professional chef takes you to a market to buy fresh ingredients before returning to the kitchen to make appetizers. On Thursday, the first week of Language lessons wraps up. Gather with the entire group for lunch today, then visit the Accademia Gallery together to see Michelangelo’s David and other great works by celebrated Renaissance artists. On Friday, journey with your fellow travelers to Colle di Val d’Elsa, noted for its glassblowing and crystal traditions. Watch a local chef demonstrate how to prepare classic Tuscan cuisine, then enjoy lunch afterward. Continue to pretty Siena to admire its Gothic architecture, and stroll through the renowned medieval square, Piazza del Campo.
Days 9-10 – Florence | Cortona Florence
Itinerary Day 1 – In Transit
Living in Italy
Depart for Florence, Italy.A
Day 2 – Florence
A Three-Week Stay in Florence
Arrive in Florence and transferA to the Hotel & Residence Palazzo Ricasoli. Gather for a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 – Florence Awaken to the sounds of an ancient city that is as vibrant as ever. Feast your eyes on vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-filled valleys. Dine on hand-cut pasta dishes paired with celebrated Italian wines. Step inside centuries-old churches, where the scent of candle wax lingers long after prayers have been said. During your three-week adventure, discover how Florence and the Tuscan countryside engages all your senses. Surround yourself in the region’s rich heritage and embrace the quintessential moments that define life in Italy.
Michelangelo’s David, Accademia Gallery
Highlights Include
Optional Enrichment Tracks: Personalize your experience based on your interests. Participate in one, two, or all three optional enrichment tracks (at an additional cost): Italian Language, Art & Architecture, and Culinary.
Excursions, Day Trips and Presentations: Tour the Uffizi and Accademia galleries, and see Florence’s architectural highlights. Go beyond Florence on day trips throughout Tuscany to the enchanting towns of Lucca, Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Cortona. Enjoy a Chianti wine tasting at the vineyard. Join local experts for talks about Renaissance art and contemporary life.
La Dolce Vita: There is ample free time to live like a local, and savor “the sweet life.” At the café, drink your espresso standing at the bar while chatting with your neighbor. Linger over a meal, enjoying the food and the company. In the evening, join the rest of the neighborhood in la passeggiata, the pre-dinner stroll through the piazza.
22
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Get to know the layout and highlights of your home away from home with a glorious morning spent exploring the Cradle of the Renaissance. Your guided tour begins at the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose red dome is a symbol of Florence. Marvel at the bronze doors of the Baptistery, which Michelangelo called the Gates of Paradise. Walk along the Ponte Vecchio, the incredible bridge over the Arno River. Visit the Piazza della Signoria, and admire the Palazzo Vecchio. Enjoy a delectable lunch of local cuisine.
Days 4-8 – Florence | Colle di Val d’Elsa | Siena Each week, immerse yourself in Florence during included excursions. Optional enrichment tracks expose you to different facets of Italian life. Plus, enjoy time at leisure for individual pursuits. On Monday, Language lessons begin this morning. Classes continue through Thursday. Today, a local speaker introduces the entire group to the Renaissance period, its artists, and their work. Tonight, dine together at a nearby restaurant.
Saturday is free to make your own discoveries in and around Florence. This evening, join the group for a drink before savoring a wonderful dinner. On Sunday, travel as a group to Cortona, a lovely town clinging to a hill covered with olive groves. Visit a museum devoted to the town’s Etruscan history. Relax over lunch in Cortona.
ITALY Adriatic Sea Lucca San Gimignano
Ligurian Sea
Florence
In the second Culinary class on Wednesday, learn how to make homemade pasta and three sauces. On Thursday, discover the incredible treasures of the Uffizi Gallery on an included excursion. Later, sample Florentine pizza at a group dinner. Friday, travel with the entire group to Chianti. Visit Castello di Monsanto, one of the top producers of world-famous Chianti wine, for a wine tasting. Sit down for a pleasant lunch in the area. Then, delight in the ambiance of San Gimignano, known for its many medieval towers.
Day 16 – Florence Today, Art & Architecture participants head to the delightful town of Fiesole, which has an excellent collection of Etruscan and Roman monuments.
Day 17 – Florence Spend a relaxing Sunday at your leisure.
FLORENCE
Overnight Featured Site
Days 11-15 – Florence | Chianti | San Gimignano On Monday through Thursday, resume your Language classes. Monday’s Art & Architecture session introduces you to Florence’s medieval basilicas of Santa Maria Novella, Orsanmichele, and Santa Croce. Tuesday, discuss the current issues affecting Italy today with a local expert, and meet for a group dinner tonight.
HOTEL & RESIDENCE PALAZZO RICASOLI |
Tuscany Siena Cortona
Days 18-22 – Florence | Lucca Monday’s schedule features a Language class. Later, the entire group heads to Lucca on an included excursion. Walk along the tree-lined town walls, visit the Romanesque cathedral and conclude with dinner in town. The Language classes continue Tuesday through Thursday. On Tuesday, savor the simple pleasures of Italian cuisine at lunch with the group. Today, Art & Architecture participants explore the Pitti Palace, residence of the Medici, Lorraine, and Savoy families, and explore Boboli Gardens. Wednesday’s agenda includes a Language lesson and a Culinary session, in which students learn how to prepare a traditional three-course meal, including an appetizer, main course and dessert. Friday, fit in last-minute sightseeing and shopping on your final free day in Florence. This evening, celebrate your adventures in Italy with your fellow travelers at a festive farewell reception and dinner.
Day 23 – Depart Florence for the U.S. Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
Located in the heart of Florence, the Palazzo Ricasoli is close to many of the city’s landmarks. Nearby, you’ll find grocery stores, a laundromat, stylish boutiques and a variety of restaurants, making it an ideal base. Housed in a 16th-century palace, the building includes an inviting courtyard. Each studio and apartment features equipped kitchenettes and complimentary Wi-Fi. During your stay, enjoy many group meals, including daily hotel breakfasts, six lunches, and seven dinners.
Tour Dates & Prices May 17 – June 8, 2019 September 6-28, 2019 Studio One Bedroom
$5,140 $5,340
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $1,990 (limited availability).
Optional Enrichment Tracks French Language Art & Culture Culinary
$890 per person $490 per person $890 per person
Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
23
Mont St. Michel
Spirit of American Youth, Normandy American Cemetery, Colleville-sur-Mer
considered a wonder of the Western world. On a guided tour, explore this fascinating island, and visit the serene abbey and church that have drawn pilgrims for centuries. If you’d like, watch the tides from the ramparts and admire the vistas.
Day 5 – Caen | Utah Beach | Sainte-Mère-Église | Excursion: Le Mémorial de Caen. Visit the awardwinning Caen Memorial Museum and learn about World War II, the D-Day landings, the Battle of Normandy and the Cold War through an array of informative exhibits, photos, and video footage. Local Flavor: Calvados. Normandy’s famous apple cider brandy is among the world’s finest brandies. Visit a farm that distills Calvados from the apples grown on its 42 acres of orchards, and learn about the process. Relax over lunch on the farm, and then sip a glass of smooth Calvados.
Arromanches
Itinerary
Excursion: Utah Beach and Sainte-Mère-Église. In the early hours of D-Day, paratroopers and glider units arrived inland, tasked with sealing off German access to the amphibious assault sites. By daybreak, the second phase began, as infantry and tanks came ashore on five beaches, codenamed Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. As you visit the Musée du Débarquement at Utah Beach, hear gripping details from your guide about how the invasion unfolded. Then travel to Sainte-MèreÉglise, where U.S. paratroopers landed and later captured the town, securing its key crossroads.
Normandy
Day 1 – In Transit
A One-Week Stay in France
Day 2 – Paris | Honfleur
Featuring 75th Anniversary of D-Day
Arrive in Paris and transferA to the Mercure Honfleur Hotel.
No Single Supplement!
Tonight, meet your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner.
Independent Exploration: Make your own plans in the area today.
Day 3 – Honfleur |
Educational Focus: The French Resistance. With a local expert, delve into the Resistance: its origins, its leaders, and the heroic efforts of the French patriots who fought to liberate their country.
Delve into Normandy’s heritage from your base in the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur. Explore 20th-century history during visits to key sites of the Allied forces’ D-Day invasion 75 years ago. Consider the impact of World War II during a poignant visit to the Normandy American Cemetery. Journey back to the Middle Ages through the intricate Bayeux Tapestry, and explore the famed island abbey of Mont St. Michel. Along the way, admire centuries of architecture, and indulge in delicious regional fare.
Highlights Include Battle of Normandy: Reflect upon the bravery of Allied soldiers who fought in the epic D-Day battle. Spend two full days exploring sites whose names will be forever etched in history: Omaha and Utah beaches, Pointe du Hoc, and SainteMère-Église. At Arromanches, see the remains of a British mulberry harbor peeking through the water. Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Caen Memorial Museum. 24
Depart for Paris, France.A
Honfleur
Artistic Legacy: Surround yourself with the same views that inspired Monet and other great Impressionist painters. At Honfleur’s Old Harbor, admire the sun reflecting off the water and the colorful townhouses built here centuries ago. View the embroidered story of William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The Bayeux Tapestry, a length of linen nearly 230 feet long, offers historians insight into the battle as well as the weapons, clothing, food, and other details of daily life in that age. Mont St. Michel: An imposing abbey and ancient church crown this mesmerizing tidal island. A World Heritage Site, it is one of France’s most memorable locales.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: Cheese and Cider. Normandy is renowned for producing world-class, specialty cheeses with the rich milk of the Normande cows. Visit a picturesque dairy farm to sample a variety of fine cheeses, taste the fresh local cider, and enjoy lunch in Honfleur. Excursion: Historic Honfleur. Get to know this quintessential French port town that has captivated artists for centuries. Soak up the maritime ambience of its picture-perfect, 17thcentury Vieux Bassin, or old harbor. Stroll along narrow side streets to see landmarks like the wooden Church of Sainte-Cathérine, crafted by 15th-century shipbuilders. Independent Exploration: Explore on your own this afternoon in Honfleur.
Day 4 – Mont St. Michel | Excursion: Mont St. Michel. With one glimpse of Mont St. Michel’s singular silhouette rising above the surrounding flat sands, you’ll know why it is
English Channel Omaha Beach
Bayeux
Arromanches Caen
Honfleur Seine River
Paris Mont St. Michel
FRANCE
Overnight Featured Site
Day 6 – Honfleur |
Local Flavor: Delight in a flavorful dinner at a restaurant in Honfleur’s scenic old harbor.
Day 7 – Arromanches | Omaha Beach | Normandy American Cemetery | Pointe du Hoc | Educational Focus: D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. During an insightful talk, discover the pivotal role that Normandy and its citizens played during this crucial period of the Allied war effort. Excursion: D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. In Arromanches, see the site of one of the offshore mulberry harbors. These floating harbors were an engineering triumph and a clever solution that enabled the Allies to funnel enormous resources into France to wage war against Hitler. Break for lunch in Arromanches. Then, walk along Omaha Beach and contemplate the extraordinary
bravery of the Allied landing forces, who valiantly advanced under devastating fire across the heavily fortified shoreline to overcome German troops. In Colleville-sur-Mer, pay a poignant visit to the Normandy American Cemetery, set on a lovely bluff over Omaha Beach, which contains 9,385 graves of Americans who died in the invasion and subsequent battles, as well as a serene memorial garden honoring those missing in action. Next, visit Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Rangers courageously scaled 100-foot cliffs, and go inside a German defensive emplacement.
Day 8 – Bayeux | Excursion: Bayeux. View the celebrated Bayeux Tapestry, an intricately embroidered masterpiece nearly 230 feet long, with more than 50 scenes related to the Norman conquest of England. Later, admire Bayeux’s Nôtre Dame cathedral. Tonight, cap off your time in Normandy with a farewell reception and dinner in Honfleur.
Day 9 – Depart Paris for the U.S. | Transfer to the Paris airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
MERCURE HONFLEUR HOTEL | HONFLEUR Set in the heart of Honfleur, this modern hotel is just steps from the charming 17th-century harbor. From this convenient location, discover the fascinating history and culture of Normandy. After a day of sightseeing, relax in the Bar Lounge with a glass of the local cider, a Calvados-based cocktail, or a fine regional vintage. The sleek, comfortable guest rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts John Kim Munholland | May 2019 John Kim Munholland | August 2019 A Smithsonian Journeys Expert for the October 2019 depature will be announced soon. For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
October 15-23, 2018
Book now for 2018 departure. See our website for details.
Tour Dates & Prices May 4-12, 2019 August 31-September 8, 2019 October 5-13, 2019 Tour Price
$4,240
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018!
VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single supplement waived for solo travelers! This offer is limited, capacity-controlled and tends to sell out quickly. Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
25
Montmartre and Sacre Couer
France’s political capital and seat of the royal court from 1682-1789. Step back in time and walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, and courtiers. The Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I, was signed in the famous Hall of Mirrors. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro before returning to Paris. This evening, savor a dinner featuring delectable French specialties.
Day 5 – Paris | Educational Focus: World War II Paris. Learn about occupied Paris from a local expert. Hear about the people who formed the Resistance and stories of their fight to free France from German control.
Notre Dame on the banks of the Seine
Itinerary
Paris
Day 1 – In Transit
A One-Week Stay in France
Day 2 – Paris |
Depart for Paris, France.A
Arrive in Paris and transferA to the Hotel Les Jardins du Marais.
Immerse yourself in Paris to get an intimate look at the City of Light. Cruise the Seine, enjoy lunch with a view at the Eiffel Tower, and imagine courtly life in Versailles while still having ample time to linger in leafy courtyards, browse through chic boutiques, and search for the best macarons. From navigating world-renowned art museums to sampling artisanal foods, expert lecturers and guides help you make the most of every experience. Through these moments and more, discover why so many people have lost their hearts to this enchanting city.
Highlights Include Cultural Insights: Gain a deeper appreciation of Le Marais, the neighborhood that is your home for the week, on a walking tour that shows off the city’s medieval quarter. See Paris’ landmarks from a different perspective during a Seine River cruise. Enjoy lunch at the Eiffel Tower, see the Rodin Museum’s sculptures, and savor artisanal treats during a culinary tour. 26
Excursion: Welcome to Paris! Explore the neighborhood around your hotel during an orientation walk and get a briefing on the Metro, Paris’ subway system, from your Travel Director.
View of the Louvre across the Seine from the Musée d’Orsay
Day Excursions: Go beyond Paris to the Palace of Versailles and the Burgundian town of Dijon on special day excursions. Flexible Schedule and Museum Pass: Fill your time with activities or enjoy a more leisurely pace — it’s your choice! Experts provide background knowledge for afternoon explorations. Your two-day museum pass offers free and expedited entry to more than 60 city museums so you can choose your schedule and follow your passion! Plus, you’ll get around easily with a “carnet” of 10 Métro tickets, and your resident director is always available with information about other activities.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: Musée Rodin. Admire the work of the talented sculptor Auguste Rodin. The story of the Musée Rodin is as fascinating as the sculptor’s life and work. In the early 19th century, Rodin rented rooms at the Hôtel Biron, where Henri Matisse, Jean Cocteau, and many other members of Paris’ creative community also resided. The French government acquired the hotel from the owner, who lost the hotel because of financial reasons, and allowed Rodin to remain. He offered all his works to the state in exchange for living in the mansion and the creation of a studio, where young artists could be trained. The museum opened in 1919, two years after his death. Take the Métro to the Eiffel Tower. There, enjoy lunch at 58 Tour Eiffel and marvel at a view of the city from the first-floor restaurant.
Join your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner.
Excursion: Paris by Boat. Cruise the Seine River for a different perspective of Paris. See Notre Dame Cathedral, Île St. Louis, the Louvre Museum, and the French Institute. End your cruise near the Musée d’Orsay.
Day 3 – Paris |
Day 6 – Dijon |
Excursion: Le Marais. Stroll through Le Marais’ narrow streets. Learn about the history of the district as you walk by medieval houses and elegant mansions with courtyards and pretty gardens. See the ruins of the medieval city wall, its Jewish quarter and the Place des Vosges. Then stop for a visit to the Musée Picasso Paris. Independent Exploration: Spend the afternoon exploring on your own. The city is filled with historic landmarks and world-class shopping. You may wish to use your museum pass to visit some of Paris’ excellent museums, including the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou.
Day 4 – Versailles | Excursion: Versailles. Visit France’s grandest palace on a guided tour. The baroque chateau was
Excursion: Dijon. Take the high-speed train to this ancient Roman city, which continues to blossom with each passing age. Stroll through the Old Town, known for its grand homes, and see the archaeology museum inside an ancient monastery. Gather for lunch at a historic mansion in Dijon. The owners of this elegant home, which has remained in the same family for several generations, greet you and share some tales of events that took place here. Independent Exploration: Enjoy some time at leisure in Dijon before returning to Paris.
Day 7 – Paris | Excursion: Flavors of France. Step into the world of French gastronomy in the neighborhood next to the Champs-de-Mars. It’s only fitting that this
Overnight Featured Site
Marne River
Versailles
Paris
FRANCE Seine River
Hotel
Tour Eiffel
Louvre Le Marais Notre Dame Rodin Museum Seine River
Dijon
City Of Paris
food journey takes place in the area that was Paris’ 16th-century market garden! With an expert leading the way, discover several of the city’s best artisan-made foods. From cheese to charcuterie, taste your way through France’s culinary heritage. Independent Exploration: Craft your own itinerary during an afternoon at leisure. Shop at Paris’ legendary department stores or revel in the pace of local life at a sidewalk café.
Day 8 – Paris | Independent Exploration: Visit the Louvre and Paris’ other museums at your leisure with your museum pass. If you prefer to see more of the city, stroll along the Seine, visit the Tuileries Gardens, or relax in the Luxembourg Gardens. You may also wish to visit the Latin Quarter, so named because the neighborhood has been the intellectual hub of Paris for centuries. Tonight, join your fellow travelers to raise a toast to your Paris adventure at a farewell dinner.
Day 9 – Depart Paris for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
LES JARDINS DU MARAIS | PARIS Located in the heart of the historic Marais quarter, Le Jardin du Marais lives up to its name and is, indeed, a garden oasis and a pause from the bustle of Paris. Enjoy the hotel’s garden and relax in the beautifully landscaped courtyard. Each welcoming guest room evokes the late art deco style of the 1930s. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, spa, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Isabelle Pepin | April 2019 Madeline Díaz | October 2018 | September 2019 For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
October 14-22, 2018 Book now for 2018 departure. See our website for details.
Tour Dates & Prices April 28-May 6, 2019 September 15-23, 2019 Tour Price
$4,340
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $745 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
27
Palace of the Popes, Avignon Market, Aix-en-Provence
Days 6-10 – Aix-en-Provence Monday launches the thrills of new discoveries as Language students begin their French language immersion. All travelers delight in regional cuisine during a group dinner at an Aix restaurant. On Tuesday, Language students hone their skills, and all travelers dine together for lunch. In the afternoon, Art & Culture participants visit the Museé Granet, which hosts works by Cézanne, Jean-Baptiste Corot, Camoin, and other masters. Wednesday offers an opportunity for Art & Culture participants to explore Provence’s castles, abbeys, and other intriguing sites. Culinary students browse local markets for produce and relish locally grown flavors during a picnic. Following French lessons for Language students on Thursday, all Smithsonian Journeys travelers gather with a local expert for an enlightening lecture about Provence’s artistic heritage. After the lecture, savor traditional cuisine at a group dinner. Abbey of Senanque, Provence
Living in France
Itinerary
A Three-Week Stay in Provence
Day 2 – Marseille | Aix-en-Provence
Day 1 – In Transit Depart for Marseille, France.A
Arrive in Marseille and transferA to the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre. This afternoon, participate in a group briefing to learn about the town’s essentials and highlights. Feel the warmth of the dazzling sunlight that enraptured Cézanne, Chagall, van Gogh, and scores of other artists on a unique and personal journey in Provence. Experience the South of France as a local while living in vibrant Aix-enProvence, the quintessential Provençal town. Immerse yourself in the region’s relaxed lifestyle, and explore the picturesque countryside at your own pace. Stroll cobblestone streets, marvel at Roman ruins, linger in medieval hilltop villages, and sip wine in the rolling vineyards. You will come away with new friends and memories of a lifetime.
Highlights Include Day Trips: Learn about the region’s history as you explore greater Provence during excursions to Avignon and the Pont du Gard, Marseille, and the Luberon Valley. Art of Provence: Join a discussion with a local expert about Provence’s artistic history. 28
Get to know your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner at an establishment in town.
Day 3 – Aix-en-Provence Join a local speaker to learn about the history of Provence, explore Aix during a walking tour, and discover savory regional flavors during lunch. Roussillon
Optional Enrichment Tracks: Personalize your experience based on your interests. Participate in one, two, or all three optional enrichment tracks (at an additional cost): French Language, Art & Culture, and Culinary. Living in Provence: Join in the fun of living in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Shop in the daily markets for fresh vegetables, fruit, and maybe a bouquet of flowers. Chat with your neighborhood butcher or barista. Claim a spot at your neighborhood café, take an evening stroll through the square, and appreciate every moment of the time you lived in Provence.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Days 4-5 – Aix-en-Provence | Luberon Experience Aix through included excursions, optional enrichment tracks, and leisure time. Weekends offer opportunities to explore the countryside, visit nearby villages, or simply take in the ambiance and pace of rural France. Begin discovering Aix on Saturday with a visit to a local market or café. Culinary participants gather for their first session and join a lecturer to learn about the history and influence of French cuisine. All travelers embark on an excursion to the Luberon Valley on Sunday. Visit the renowned antique market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, delight in the red-ocher village of Roussillon, and marvel at sprawling countryside views during a photo stop.
Provence
Friday is at your leisure to explore, and Language students finish the first week of French classes.
FRANCE Pont du Gard
Days 11-12 – Aix-en-Provence | Avignon | Pont du Gard Discover Aix at your leisure on Saturday. Browse local boutiques, take a walk, or journey beyond Aix if you wish. Art & Culture participants follow in the footsteps of Cézanne at his studio. Tonight, gather with fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers for dinner, and discuss your favorite Aix experiences. On Sunday, journey to Avignon to explore the grand Palace of the Popes. After an included lunch, see the Pont du Gard, the Roman aqueduct.
Days 13-17 – Aix-en-Provence Another week of experiences begins on Monday. Language students practice speaking in everyday situations. All travelers enjoy a Provençal lunch and gather again in the evening to share insights. On Tuesday, participants of the French Language track continue their practice. Culinary students learn the secrets of French cuisine and sit down to a dinner prepared with the freshest ingredients. Art & Culture participants travel to Arles on Wednesday to visit ancient monuments, Roman ruins, and the interesting Musée d’Arles Antiques. Classes continue for Language students on Thursday. In the evening, gather with all Smithsonian Journeys travelers for dinner. Language students complete their second week of French immersion classes on Friday.
Avignon
Arles
Roussillon
Aix-en-Provence Marseille
Mediterranean Sea
Overnight Featured Site
Journeys travelers. Admire the city’s many highlights and enjoy panoramic views from Notre-Dame de la Garde. Enjoy a lunch of local flavors.
APARTHOTEL ADAGIO AIX-EN-PROVENCE CENTRE | AIX-EN-PROVENCE Your modern apartment-style accommodation is in the heart of Aix near groceries, a pharmacy, other shops, and restaurants. Well-equipped studios and apartments have satellite TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Enjoy the convenience of a kitchen with a cooktop, microwave oven, coffee maker, dishwasher, and tableware. A self-service laundry and dry cleaning service is available. Plus, enjoy several group meals during your stay, featuring three breakfasts, five lunches, and six dinners.
Days 20-21 – Aix-en-Provence Monday offers opportunities for learning and leisure. Language students practice their language fluency, and Art & Culture students take a look at Aix’s array of fountains gracing its courtyards and streets. Tonight, join Smithsonian Journeys travelers for a convivial gathering. On Tuesday, Language participants celebrate their final language lesson. Culinary students gather to discuss the basics of wine and cheese pairings and sample an assortment of delightful flavors.
Day 22 – Aix-en-Provence On your final day at leisure, visit your favorite locales and celebrate your French adventure at a farewell reception and dinner.
Days 18-19 – Aix-en-Provence | Marseille
Day 23 – Depart Aix-en-Provence for the U.S.
After a relaxing Saturday at leisure, spend Sunday exploring Marseille with your fellow Smithsonian
Transfer to the Marseille airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
Tour Dates & Prices May 1-23, 2019 September 4-26, 2019 Studio One Bedroom
$4,440 $4,840
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $1,990 for Studio and $2,190 for One Bedroom (limited availability).
Optional Enrichment Tracks French Language Art & Culture Culinary
$1,095 per person $825 per person $595 per person
Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
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Left: Plaza de Tores, Ronda
own paradise on earth. In the breathtaking Palacios Nazaríes, see the Court of the Myrtles, the Court of the Lions, the Hall of the Ambassadors, and more. Visit the castle that guarded the palace, and stroll through the gardens of Generalife.
Below: The Alhambra, Granada
Inside the Alhambra, relax over lunch at the restaurant of the Parador de Granada. Independent Exploration: Descend into the city to explore downtown Granada on your own. Savor southern specialties for dinner tonight at a restaurant in Antequera.
Day 5 – Seville |
Antequera
Spain’s Andalusia
Itinerary
New!
Day 1 – In Transit Depart for Málaga, Spain.A
Day 2 – Málaga | Antequera |
A One-Week Stay in Antequera
Arrive in Málaga and transferA to the Parador de Antequera.
No Single Supplement! Andalusia, Spain’s historic southern region, owes its name and much of its heritage to eight centuries of Moorish rule. Stemming from the Arabic name Al-Andalus, Andalusia is just one of thousands of Spanish words with Arabic roots. Explore the influence of Moorish culture, along with Christian and Jewish influences, on Spanish culture during that time. Examine the legacies of these great cultures through Andalusia’s art, architecture, and cuisine while appreciating the region’s contemporary culture. From the Alhambra and the great mosque in Córdoba to the charming town of Ronda and the cultural center of Seville, embrace the best of Andalusia.
Highlights Include Antequera: Stay in this classic Andalusian town, crowned by its Alcazaba, a 14th-century Moorish fortress built atop Roman ruins. In the centuries following the Reconquest, Antequera became known for its many churches. Nearby, find Europe’s largest megalithic tomb. 30
This evening, gather at the parador for a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 – Antequera |
Plaza de España, Seville
Day Excursions: Admire Granada’s Alhambra, a Moorish fortress with magnificent buildings, fountains, and courtyards. See the beautiful tile work at the Seville’s Plaza de España, and visit the Alcázar and the immense Gothic cathedral. In Córdoba, admire La Mezquita, the great mosque-turned-cathedral. In Málaga, take in the full breadth of native son Pablo Picasso at the Museo Picasso Málaga. Cultural Traditions: Feel the passion of flamenco music and dancing at a special performance, visit a vineyard for a wine tasting, and learn about the traditions of bullfighting.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: Ancient Antequera. Witness Europe’s most striking megalithic monuments, the Menga and Viera dolmens, a World Heritage site. Learn about the incredible labor and skill required to build these enormous stone burial chambers. Then, take a guided walk in Antequera. Begin at the Alcazaba, the Moorish fortress, and admire sweeping vistas of Antequera. Then visit the Real Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor, a 16th-century church, and see other landmarks in the old town. Next, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, followed by a tour of the town hall. Educational Focus: Andalusia and the Moorish Influence. Delve into the impact the Moors had on Spanish language and culture with a local expert.
Day 4 – Granada | Excursion: Granada. Head to Granada to visit the stunning Alhambra, the Moorish fortress and palace complex and World Heritage site. It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries by the kings of the Nasrid dynasty who sought to create their
Excursion: Seville. Journey to Seville. On a panoramic walking tour, visit the magnificent Plaza de España, decorated with colorful ceramics. Then step inside the grand Cathedral of Seville, the world’s largest Gothic building and a World Heritage site. Next, visit the splendid Real Alcázar, a 10th-century Moorish palace that later became a Spanish royal residence. See the centuries-old bullring, and Torre del Oro, the 13th-century defensive watchtower over the river. Finish with a walk through the quaint Barrio de Santa Cruz.
Overnight Featured Site
Cordoba Seville
SPAIN Antequera
Independent Exploration: Find a nice spot for lunch on your own before returning to Antequera.
Ronda
Join your group for dinner tonight in the parador.
Day 6 – Ronda | Educational Focus: Bullfighting Traditions. Ronda is deeply connected to la corrida, or bullfighting. Learn about the style developed by the Romero family in the 17th and 18th centuries. Excursion: Ronda. Spectacularly set on the edge of El Tajo gorge high above the open countryside, Ronda is a showstopper and the largest of the region’s pueblos blancos, or white towns. Visit the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor, a church built on the site of a mosque. Then stand in the famed sandstone bullring, Plaza de Toros, inaugurated in 1785, and discover more about this iconic Spanish tradition at the museum on-site. Delight in an unforgettable view over El Tajo from the terrace of Casa de San Juan Bosco. Local Flavor: Bodega Joaquín Fernández. Sit with a glass of wine and take in the gorgeous scenery at the vineyard of this organic winery. Your visit includes a tasting of the bodega’s wines and lunch.
Day 7 – Córdoba | Excursion: Córdoba. Explore the great mosque, La Mezquita, containing the finest examples of Moorish architecture in Spain. After the city was recaptured by the Spanish, a cathedral was built inside the complex walls in the 16th century. La Mezquita’s most spellbinding feature is the superb
Granada
Malaga
Mediterranean Sea Atlantic Ocean
hall with 856 columns made from marble, granite, jasper, and onyx connected by striped arches. See the imposing Roman bridge, and take a stroll in the atmospheric Jewish quarter. Independent Exploration: Make your own plans for lunch and exploration in Córdoba. Local Flavor: Dine at a restaurant in Antequera.
Day 8 – Málaga | Educational Focus: Contemporary Spain. Discuss the current issues affecting life in Spain. Excursion: Málaga. Head to vibrant Málaga. At the Museo Picasso Málaga, study the captivating art of Pablo Picasso in the city of his birth. Independent Exploration: Select your own place for lunch, and enjoy free time in Málaga. Celebrate your time together in Spain at a farewell reception and dinner in the parador. During a special performance, relish the passion and precision of flamenco, Spain’s famed art form.
Day 9 – Depart Málaga for the U.S. | Transfer to the Málaga airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
PARADOR DE ANTEQUERA |
ANTEQUERA
Enjoy the tranquil, parklike setting of the Parador de Antequera. A cultural crossroads for centuries, Antequera is ideally located for exploring Andalusia. After a day of sightseeing, relax with a glass of wine on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. Savor expertly prepared regional cuisine at the restaurant. The sleek guest rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Stephen Clancy | May Allen Fromherz | October For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices May 9-17, 2019 October 3-11, 2019 Tour Price
$3,740
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single supplement waived for solo travelers! This offer is limited, capacity-controlled and tends to sell out quickly. Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
31
Monastery of Montserrat
Day 4 – Barcelona | Educational Focus: Modernism and the Architecture of Gaudí. Antoni Gaudí is one of the most famous figures of Catalán culture and world architecture. A local expert discusses how his love of God and nature inspired his creations. Excursion: Gaudí’s Barcelona. Seven Gaudí buildings in and around Barcelona, recognized together as a World Heritage site, attest to his modernist architectural contributions. Visit Parc Güell, a captivating public park with colorful, undulating mosaic benches, shady trees, and Mediterranean views. Then head to La Sagrada Família, and appreciate his bold use of light, color, and form. Contemplate surreal Casa Batlló, an intriguing example of his art nouveau style, along Barcelona’s elegant boulevard, Passeig de Gràcia. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties.
Day 5 – Girona | Figueres |
Plaça d'Espanya, Barceloona
Itinerary Day 1 – In Transit
Barcelona
Depart for Barcelona, Spain.A
Day 2 – Barcelona |
A One-Week Stay in Spain
Arrive in Barcelona and transferA to the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel. Tonight, get acquainted with your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner.
Cosmopolitan and enchanting, Barcelona is the jewel of Spain’s Mediterranean coast, founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago. Over the centuries, Barcelona’s creative citizens have been on the leading edge of innovations in architecture and art, creating a spectacular, surprising cityscape that’s a feast for the eyes. Walk through the Barri Gòtic, where the narrow warren of streets will transport you to medieval Barcelona. In the Eixample district, marvel at the fanciful modernist masterpieces of architect Antoni Gaudí. Discover the real Barcelona, unforgettable and exhilarating, as you immerse yourself in the Catalonian capital on this unique journey.
Highlights Include History and Culture: Stroll through the Barri Gòtic, one of the most complete Gothic quarters in Europe. Tour Palau de la Música, a modernist concert hall and World Heritage site, and visit the El Born district, site of medieval trade guilds and jousting matches. 32
Day 3 – Barcelona | Excursion: The Music Palace. Visit the Palau de la Música Catalana, a gorgeous modernist concert hall created by art nouveau architect Lluís Doménich i Montaner.
Interior detail of La Sagrada Familia
Antoni Gaudí: Appreciate this architect’s distinctive style and vision during visits to La Sagrada Família, Parc Güell, and Casa Batlló, recognized together as a World Heritage site. Pablo Picasso: Visit sites connected to Picasso’s formative years in Barcelona, and tour the Picasso Museum, which houses a rich collection of the artist’s earliest works. Beyond Barcelona: Visit Girona, a beautiful medieval city, and marvel at Salvador Dalí’s whimsical artwork in Figueres. Journey to the Benedictine monastery at Montserrat, and sip sparkling cava in the Penedès wine region.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: The Gothic Quarter. Walk through the Barri Gòtic, heart of medieval Barcelona. Visit Plaça St. Jaume, where civic leaders have run the city since Roman times. Admire the Plaça del Rei, the historic powerhouse of medieval Catalonia. See the Gothic cathedral and the walls that defined the perimeter of Roman Barcino.
Excursion: Girona and Dali’s Figueres. Journey to the town of Girona, built by the Romans 2,000 years ago. It became an important Catalonian town during the Middle Ages. On a walking tour, discover the Call, the medieval maze of narrow streets that was home to the town’s Jewish community. Travel to Figueres, the hometown of surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Visit the Dalí Theater-Museum, designed by the artist himself. The colorful building topped with giant eggs is as whimsical and dramatic as the artwork inside.
Parque Güell La Sagrada Familia Palau de Hotel la Musica Catalana Casa Batllo Picasso Gothic Museum Quarter
City Of Barcelona
Figueres
Girona
SPAIN
Montserrat
Barcelona
RENAISSANCE BARCELONA HOTEL | BARCELONA Overnight Featured Site
Sample some of the local cuisine during lunch at a restaurant in Girona.
Day 6 – Barcelona | Excursion: Barcelona Through the Eyes of Picasso. Pablo Picasso drew creative inspiration from Barcelona and embraced its progressive attitudes about art. Visit the Picasso Museum to see one of the largest collections of his early works. Follow in his footsteps as you explore the neighborhood where he and other artists congregated. Tour El Born, Barcelona’s medieval jousting grounds. See Santa Maria del Mar, a 14th-century church built in the Gothic style of Catalonia. Independent Exploration: Craft your own plans for the rest of the day.
Local Flavor: Barcelona Cook and Taste. Roll up your sleeves and learn how to make Catalán cuisine, including traditional appetizers and paella. Then enjoy the delicious food you’ve prepared!
This evening, savor traditional dishes at dinner at a Barcelona restaurant.
Educational Focus: The History of Catalonia and Barcelona. Proud of its own identity and language, Catalonia is also one of Spain’s most independentminded regions. Gain insights about its history, spanning the overthrow of the Romans to the conquest of the Mediterranean Coast.
Excursion: The Monastery of Montserrat and Penedès Wine Region. Visit the ninth-century Benedictine monastery of Montserrat, built along a sandstone mountain and surrounded by towering pillar formations. Explore the monastery grounds and basilica, and see the statue of the Virgin of
Day 7 – Montserrat | Penedès |
Montserrat, the patroness of Catalonia. Later, admire the pretty scenery of the Penedès wine region, known for its cava, a sparkling wine. Relax over a country-style lunch, complemented by refreshing cava, at a winery.
Day 8 – Barcelona | Educational Focus: Contemporary Catalonia. Many Catalonians think of their region as a separate nation from Spain. Learn about their continued efforts for greater independence. Independent Exploration: Spend your final day exploring on your own. In seaside Barceloneta, take a leisurely stroll along the lively waterfront, or hop aboard the port cable car for a pleasant ride up the Montjuic hillside. Shop in the boutiques along La Rambla, or discover the work of local craftspeople in La Ribera. Tonight, celebrate your time together in this enchanting city at a farewell reception and dinner.
Day 9 – Depart Barcelona for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
Located in the heart of the Catalonian capital, the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel blends traditional and modern high-rise design. La Sagrada Família, La Rambla, and the chic shops of Passeig de Gràcia are nearby. After a full day of sightseeing, settle in the lounge with a drink, or re-energize at the fitness center and Mayan-inspired spa. The bright, modern guest rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ana Afzali | May A Smithsonian Journeys Expert for the September depature will be announced soon. For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices May 18-26, 2019 September 14-22, 2019 Tour Price
$3,840
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $995 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
33
Oxford
opening of Parliament. Then visit the ornate House of Lords Chamber lined with red leather benches, followed by the wood-paneled House of Commons Chamber. Local Flavor: Indulge in the British tradition of afternoon tea inside the Houses of Parliament.
Day 4 – Minster Lovell | Burford | Oxford | Excursion: The Cotswolds and Oxford. Venture into Oxfordshire today. In the Cotswolds, step into a storybook scene as you make your way through verdant hills and visit the charming village of Minster Lovell. Continue to the village of Burford for a walk along the High Street, lined with cozy pubs and shops built with the Cotswolds’ famous honey-colored stone. Next, head to Oxford and the University of Oxford, and visit one of the storied colleges to admire the architecture and manicured lawns. Stop for lunch at a cozy restaurant in the Cotswolds.
River Avon
The Cotswolds
Day 5 – London | Big Ben and Houses of Parliament, London
Itinerary
London
Day 1 – In Transit
A Stay in England
Day 2 – London |
Depart for London, England.A
Arrive in London and transferA to the Radisson Blu Edwardian, Vanderbilt. Immerse yourself in the dynamic city of London, an ancient, yet gloriously modern metropolis that has exerted its influence on the world over the centuries. Delve into the city’s architectural, political, and royal heritage. Discover the wigged world of barristers and judges when you explore the Inns of Court and Houses of Parliament. Step inside the world of kings and queens with visits to Westminster Abbey and Hampton Court. Whether you’re strolling through the hallowed halls of government, relishing afternoon tea, or admiring priceless artifacts in storied museums, treasure each moment as you take in the best that London has to offer.
Highlights Include History and the Arts: Enjoy special tours that highlight the art, architecture, and history of England and its vibrant capital, including the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Plus take a walking tour of “The City,” London’s oldest, most historic neighborhood. 34
Welcome to London. Explore the South Kensington neighborhood around your hotel on a walking tour and get a briefing on the Tube, London’s subway system, from your Travel Director. With the Gloucester Road Underground Station just steps from the hotel, everything in London and its environs is within easy reach. Celebrate the beginning of your London adventure with a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 – London | English pub, London
Government: Trace the course of British government during visits to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace and the Houses of Parliament, plus an Inns of Court walking tour. Oxford and the Cotswolds: Journey through the rolling countryside and lovely villages of the Cotswolds, and visit the iconic university town of Oxford, including a look at one of its storied colleges. British Traditions: Share in an afternoon tea with fellow travelers and savor pub fare for lunches on your own.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: The City of Westminster. Hop on the Tube this morning and head to Westminster, home to London’s most iconic sites, for a walking tour. Visit Westminster Abbey and stroll along streets lined with beautiful Georgian homes. Find a special spot for lunch on your own before your visit to Westminster Palace, better known as the Houses of Parliament. Excursion: The Houses of Parliament. Within the stately Houses of Parliament, follow your guide through the medieval Westminster Hall and St. Stephens Hall, decorated with murals depicting key events in British history. Trace the processional route taken by the Queen during her annual
Excursion: Shakespeare’s Globe and the City. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe. From the thatch of the roof to the Elizabethan-era construction methods, the materials and techniques used to build this 20th-century theater created an amazingly authentic re-creation of the 16th-century playhouse that staged many of the Bard’s plays. Cross the Millennium Bridge to “The City,” the oldest part of London. Step into St. Paul’s Cathedral, Christopher Wren’s majestic baroque masterpiece, completed in 1711. Try English specialties for lunch at a local pub during your excursion. Educational Focus: Literary London. Discover how London inspired many of England’s literary greats, and learn about the city’s role in some of the greatest pieces of literature.
Day 6 – Richmond | Molesey | Excursion: London’s Tudor Suburbs. Start your Tudor-era exploration by visiting the remains of Richmond Palace. Cruise the River Thames to Hampton Court Palace, the royal residence best known as the home of Henry VIII. See the Great Hall, the Haunted Gallery, the grand state rooms and private apartments, and the garden maze.
ENGLAND Oxford River Thames
The British Museum
London Richmond/ Hampton Court
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Hyde Park
Parliament Kensington River Thames
Globe Theatre
C ITY OF L ONDON English Channel
Overnight Featured Site
Admire the eclectic architecture and walk amid leafy courtyards in the heart of London’s legal community. Some of the city’s finest gardens also can be found here. Enjoy lunch on your own. Excursion: British Museum. At one of the world’s most famed museums, journey back in time, and marvel at ancient artifacts from Egyptian, Greek, and Assyrian civilizations and more.
Day 8 – London |
RADISSON BLU EDWARDIAN, VANDERBILT | LONDON Comprising ten 19th-century townhouses, this ideally located hotel has been carefully decorated with both reclaimed and modern pieces to create a period ambiance with a modern twist. The Tube is nearby, and many attractions are within walking distance. Enjoy contemporary British cuisine at the restaurant. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Vanessa Harding | July Cassandra Hannahs | August For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Lunch will be served on board during your cruise.
Excursion: Victoria & Albert Museum. Explore one of London’s most popular museums, an art and design museum focusing on history illustrated through art, textiles, clothing, furniture and more. The collections reflect more than 5,000 years of creativity, ingenuity, and inspiration.
Tonight, join the group for dinner at a restaurant in London.
Independent Exploration: Have lunch on your own and see more of the city this afternoon.
Tour Price
Day 7 – London |
Tonight, join your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner and raise a toast your London experience.
VAT is included.
Excursion: Law and Order in London. Stroll through the Inns of Court, London’s traditional community of barristers. Get the scoop on the centuries of history and gossip behind these walls.
Day 9 – Depart London for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
Tour Dates & Prices July 4-12, 2019 August 1-9, 2019 $4,140
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018!
All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $995 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
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Kylemore Abbey
County Sligo, known as “Yeats’ Country,” to discover the alluring Irish countryside that so enthralled the legendary poet and Nobel Prize winner. Tour this stately Greek Revival home, which was the childhood home of Constance Markievicz, an Irish nationalist and the first woman to be elected to the British House of Commons. Markievicz and her family entertained William Butler Yeats at Lissadell. Visit his grave at Drumcliff Cemetery at the foot of majestic Benbulben mountain. Stop for lunch in the town of Sligo. Educational Focus: W.B. Yeats. Learn about the poetry of Yeats during a presentation by a Yeats Society Fellow. Excursion: Megalithic Ireland. Visit Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Ireland’s largest Stone Age burial site with 60 surviving tombs.
Day 5 – Achill Island |
Benbulben Mountain and Sligo
Itinerary
County Mayo
Day 1 – In Transit
A One-Week Stay in Northwest Ireland
Day 2 – Shannon | Westport |
Depart for Shannon, Ireland.A
Arrive in Shannon and transferA to the Westport Plaza Hotel.
No Single Supplement!
In Mulranny, learn how to make Irish coffee and then sip your delicious drink while enjoying stunning views over Clew Bay.
Gather for a welcome reception, featuring Irish dancers and musicians, and a welcome dinner.
Day 6 – Connemara |
Highlights Include Irish Traditions: Visit the National Museum of Ireland Country Life to learn about rural traditions. Tour historic Westport House. Watch a folk dance and music performance, 36
Friendly local musician, Westport
and sip an Irish coffee while enjoying the view of Clew Bay from a charming country hotel. County Sligo: Delve into the lives of poet W.B. Yeats and Constance Markievicz, the first woman in the British House of Commons. Achill Island: Witness the island’s rugged beauty, and meander through the Deserted Village at Slievemore. Connemara: Travel through a landscape of mountains and bogs, admire Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century castle, and watch sharp-eyed border collies herd sheep at a local farm. Galway: Explore colorful Galway, often referred to as the “most Irish” of Ireland’s cities.
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Excursion: Irish Folklife. At the National Museum of Ireland, rural traditions come to life in exhibits about farming, crafts, hunting, domestic life, and more. A museum staff member provides more insight during an engaging talk. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Excursion: Westport House. This elegant 18thcentury manor house was built by the descendants of Grace O’Malley, the 16th-century Pirate Queen of Connaught, atop the ruins of one of her castles. Step back in time as you meander through the period rooms, beautifully accented with Waterford cut-glass chandeliers and Sicilian marble. In a “Dine Around” experience, gather into small groups and explore some of the quaint restaurants in the Westport area.
Day 4 – County Sligo | Excursion: Lissadell House and Gardens. Head to
Featured Site
Sligo
Achill Island
Atlantic Ocean
Foxford
Westport
Connemara Cong Clifden Galway
IRELAND Shannon
Irish Sea
WESTPORT PLAZA HOTEL | WESTPORT
At lunch, taste some of the local specialties in the village of Keel on Achill Island.
Excursion: Westport. Kick off your adventure with a short walking tour and get to know Westport.
Day 3 – Westport | Experience the essence of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way, the rugged western coast, during a weeklong stay in beautiful Westport. Explore traditional folklife, and visit Achill Island to get a sense of Ireland’s natural isolation. Nourish your soul with fresh air and views of coastal cliffs, mountain peaks, and grassy meadows. Discover poetry and politics in neighboring County Sligo. Experience the Ireland seemingly untouched by time in rural County Galway, yet see the country’s bright future reflected in the youthful city of Galway. Embrace Irish life — past, present, and future — on this invigorating journey.
Excursion: Ireland’s Rugged Beauty. Witness Achill Island’s magnificent, untamed beauty. Travel the Wild Atlantic Way, take in the rolling mountains, boggy peatlands, and the powerful waves crashing against rocky cliffs. At the Deserted Village at Slievemore, stand among more than 80 abandoned stone cottages, a moving testament to the harsh realities of agricultural life and the Famine.
Overnight
Excursion: Connemara. Marvel at Connemara’s stark beauty, shaped by ancient glaciers. See Croagh Patrick Mountain, where St. Patrick is said to have fasted for 40 days in the fifth century, and the poignant National Famine Memorial by sculptor John Behan at the mountain’s base. Visit a farm to watch frisky sheepdogs bound through the fields during a herding demonstration. Step inside Kylemore Abbey, a romantic, 19th-century castle by a lake. Conclude your day with a trip to Clifden, a town situated between the foothills of the Twelve Bens and the ocean. Enjoy free time to shop, savor the ambiance of bustling Market Square, or visit a pub for a pint. Return via scenic Inagh Valley.
Day 7 – Cong | Galway | Excursion: Cong. Visit picturesque Cong, the village that served as the backdrop for the classic 1952 movie, “The Quiet Man,” starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. Explore the ruins and grounds of the Gothic Augustinian abbey.
Excursion: Galway, the City of Tribes. This spirited city exudes a youthful energy, brimming with live music, street performers, and students from the National University of Ireland/Galway. With an expert guide, take a culinary walking tour to visit local artisans, such as chocolatiers, cheese makers, and craft brewers, to sample their tasty creations. Afterward, explore the city’s vibrant network of medieval cobbled streets on your own.
Day 8 – Westport | Independent Exploration: Spend your final full day in Ireland at leisure. Hike the County Mayo countryside, take a harbor cruise from Westport Harbor or rent bikes for a leisurely ride along the Great Western Greenway. Journey to North Mayo to see the Ceidi Fields or take a short ferry ride to Clare Island. This evening, share the highlights of your Irish adventure with your fellow travelers at a festive farewell reception and dinner.
Day 9 – Depart Westport for the U.S. | Transfer to the Shannon airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
Stay in the heart of charming Westport on Ireland’s northwestern coast, just steps away from the town’s shops and restaurants. Pamper yourself at Spa Sula or unwind at the swimming pool, whirlpool, or fitness center. The Plaza Bar is a welcoming spot to chat with friends, and Restaurant Merlot offers Irish and international cuisine. Relax in your inviting guest room, which features complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Hilary Lennon | June Christopher Griffin | September For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices June 11-19, 2019 September 17-25, 2019 Tour Price
$4,140
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single supplement waived for solo travelers! This offer is limited, capacity-controlled and tends to sell out quickly. Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
37
Bailey Lighthouse on Howth Head Peninsula St. Kevin’s monastery, Glendalough
Savor the flavors of Ireland during dinner at a Dublin establishment.
Day 4 – Wicklow | Excursion: The Garden of Ireland. Spend the day in County Wicklow. Often referred to as the Garden of Ireland, you will revel in gorgeous scenes of mountains, forests, lakes, and meadows during your journey. Explore Russborough House, a historic Palladian mansion, and see border collies in action as they demonstrate herding sheep. Cross the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, an ancient monastic site, and see the iconic Round Tower and ruins of churches. Delight in the elegant grounds of Powerscourt Estate. This grand villa showcases extensive gardens, including Italian and Japenses gardens. Relax over a delicious lunch in Laragh during your excursion.
Day 5 – Dublin |
Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin
Itinerary
New!
Day 1 – In Transit
Dublin
Depart for Dublin, Ireland.A
Day 2 – Dublin |
A One-Week Stay in Ireland
Arrive in Dublin and transferA to the Davenport Hotel. Excursion: Welcome to Dublin! Get to know Dublin and stroll down Grafton Street during an orientation walk with your Travel Director.
Ireland sweeps you off your feet by charming you with the words of great Irish writers, engaging you with its fascinating medieval history, and wooing you with lively Irish music and dancing. Pursue the essence of Ireland during an exciting week in Dublin, an old city with a youthful heart, and two neighboring counties. Explore ancient history and new traditions. Delve into events that shaped the modern country, and visit monuments that tell the story of a flourishing prehistoric civilization. Join us to experience the magical heritage of Ireland, the Emerald Isle.
Highlights Include Scholars and Saints: Tour world-renowned Trinity College with a knowledgeable student and learn about the university’s interesting history; see its breathtaking library and the Book of Kells. Visit Glendalough, the early medieval monastery established by St. Kevin and a great school in the early Middle Ages. 38
Meet your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner tonight.
Day 3 – Dublin |
Trinity College, Dublin
The Garden of Ireland: Surround yourself with the stunning beauty of Russborough House and Powerscourt Estate, two beautiful mansions and their gardens in County Wicklow. Food and Drink: Meet Dublin’s food artisans and purveyors during a walking tour. Discover food trends created with the island’s wealth of fresh produce. Tour a whiskey distillery in The Liberties, the Dublin neighborhood historically associated with distilleries and breweries. Contemporary History: Learn about the 1916 Rising during a tour of Kilmainham Gaol.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: Dublin Food Trail. Be immersed in Dublin’s food scene. With an expert leading the way, visit specially selected purveyors of local cuisine to learn how traditional and international flavors both find space on Irish dining tables. Enjoy tastes of dishes created with fresh Irish produce at each stop. Excursion: Trinity College Dublin. Join an engaging student guide and tour the campus of Trinity College Dublin, one of the world’s best institutions of higher learning. Learn about the architecture, hear quirky school stories, and see the Book of Kells, the renowned illuminated manuscript, in the university’s beautiful library. Educational Focus: Irish Writers. Dublin is one of 29 cities around the world designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Literature. Join a local expert to learn about Dublin’s literary heritage.
Excursion: The 1916 Rising. Learn the history of the 1916 Rising, the watershed revolt that set into motion the 1949 establishment of the Republic of Ireland, and the people behind it. Visit the Kilmainham Gaol, where rebel leaders and fighters were imprisoned and executed. Today, the jail is a museum and tells the stories of the men and women imprisoned here. Gain insight into their experiences during a guided tour. Following lunch at leisure, continue to the General Post Office (GPO), a crucial site in the 1916 Rising. On Easter Monday in 1916, rebels took control of the GPO, which became their headquarters during that momentous week, and proclaimed Ireland’s independence. Though the fighters surrendered after a week of fierce fighting, the battle for a free Ireland continued. Today, the GPO, which still bears bullet-scarred façade, is an interactive museum that tells the story of the rebels and the fight for Irish independence.
Day 6 – Howth | Dún Laoghaire | Excursion: Coastal County Dublin. Ride Dublin’s electric rail system to Howth, a charming fishing village on the Howth Head peninsula, and embark on a boat tour along the coast. See the Baily Lighthouse and sail past Ireland’s Eye, an island bird sanctuary. Today, the island is uninhabited by people, but ruins from a 6th-century monastery and an 8th-century church remain. Cruise by the bustling Dublin Port, where half of the country’s imports and exports enter and leave the island. The cruise ends in Dún Laoghaire, a seaport town just south of Dublin and a favorite spot for locals. Take a walk on the pier before returning to the city on the train. Enjoy lunch in Howth.
Brú na Bóinne
IRELAND Dublin
Howth
Irish Sea
Russborough House
Powerscourt Estate
Glendalough Overnight Featured Site
THE DAVENPORT |
Day 7 – Boyne Valley | Excursion: The Boyne Valley. Step back in time to Neolithic Ireland in Brú na Bóinne, a culturally rich area by the bend of the Boyne River. Learn about the social, religious, and architectural importance of these tombs, which became the center of subsequent communities who lived here. Join your fellow travelers for lunch. Independent Exploration: Spend an evening at leisure in Dublin. This vibrant city offers many venues to enjoy fine dining and traditional music.
Day 8 – Dublin | Excursion: National Museum of Ireland-Archaeology. Take a guided tour of this museum, featuring prehistoric gold artifacts and outstanding examples of metalwork from the Celtic Iron Age. During time at leisure later today, consider renting a bike to see the city’s park, visit the National Gallery to browse art by great masters, or stroll through Merrion Square. Gather for a festive farewell reception and dinner to celebrate a wonderful week in Dublin.
Day 9 – Depart Dublin for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
DUBLIN
Dublin and its highlights are at your doorstep when you stay at The Davenport. Merrion Park, Trinity College, the shops of Grafton Street, and the National Gallery all are just steps away. Discover Dublin nightlife at the nearby restaurants and pubs. At the end of a full day of exploring, relax in the comfort of a sleek and well-appointed guest room. Stay connected with the complimentary Wi-Fi.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Cassandra Hannahs | May A Smithsonian Journeys Expert for the July depature will be announced soon. For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices May 4-12, 2019 July 13-21, 2019 Tour Price
$4,340
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $1,300 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
39
Reichstag on the Spree River, Berlin
Friedrich Wilhelm, the Great Elector. Today, the Tiergarten is a popular urban green space. Discover a fun German pastime and have lunch at a beer garden. Independent Exploration: The remainder of the day is free to pursue your own interests in Berlin.
Day 5 – Potsdam Excursion: Prussian Potsdam. Potsdam is known for its beautiful landscape of palaces and gardens. Discover Sanssouci, the former summer residence of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia. Admire the rococo architecture, extravagant furnishings, and manicured gardens. See the Neues Palais, a magnificent baroque castle. Then visit Cecilienhof Palace, a Tudor-style palace built in the early 20th century. Truman, Churchill, and Stalin gathered at this beautiful country house in 1945 to discuss the future of post-war Europe. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Potsdam. Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
Itinerary
New!
Berlin
Highlights Include Highlights of Berlin: Take a city tour, visit the last standing section of the Berlin Wall, and enjoy a guided tour of the Reichstag. See the spot where President Kennedy made his 1963 speech and declared, “Ich bin ein Berliner.” Art and Music of Berlin: Visit the worldfamous Pergamon Museum on Berlin’s Museum Island and go behind the scenes for a tour of the 40
Day 6 – Berlin |
Depart for Berlin, Germany.A
Educational Focus: From Bach to Beethoven. Some of the world’s most famous classical composers hail from Germany. A local speaker discusses Germany’s contribution to music.
Arrive in Berlin and transferA to the first-class Hilton Berlin.
Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall From its Prussian and Imperial years through the World Wars and from its Cold War split and to its eventual reunification, Berlin has weathered many ups and downs over the centuries. As a result, Berlin is unique among the world’s cities. Many would say Berlin has risen above its turbulent history to become more vibrant, dynamic, and exciting than ever. On this week-long journey, discover the many chapters of its past and the local events that affected the city and the world, visit iconic sites, and explore its artistic heritage.
Day 1 – In Transit Day 2 – Berlin |
A One-Week Stay in Germany
Join your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 – Berlin | Educational Focus: A Tale of Two Cities. Learn about Berlin’s Cold War past as a city divided into East and West sectors from a local expert.
Sanssouci Palce, Potsdam
Philharmonie. Admire the paintings in the Gemäldegalerie, where masterpieces from the 13th-18th centuries are on exhibit. Spend an evening enjoying a musical performance. Local Insight: Join discussions with local experts about the Cold War Berlin, listen to a first-person account about life in wartime Berlin, and learn about the city’s musical legacy. Potsdam: Tour Potsdam, Sanssouci Palace, and Cecelienhof Palace. Berlin Life: Enjoy a German tradition and visit a beer garden for lunch.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Independent Exploration: Spend some free time in Potdsam’s Dutch Quarter, an ensemble of 18th-century houses and building designed to bring a touch of the Netherlands to the city.
Excursion: Berlin. On a panoramic tour of Berlin, see the highlights of the city, including Federal Chancellory, Brandenburg Gate, Pariser Platz, Reichstag, Gendarmenmarkt, and Unter den Linden. Drive along Kurfürstendamm, Berlin’s famous shopping street. Take a guided walk at the Bernauerstrasse Wall Memorial, the last section of the Berlin Wall preserved in place. Stop at a restaurant for lunch during the excursion.
Day 4 – Berlin | Excursion: Reichstag and Spree River Cruise. For a glimpse into Berlin’s past and present, tour the monumental Reichstag, seat of the Germany’s lower house parliament and one of Berlin’s most historic landmarks. After, see the city from the Spree River as you cruise the waterway that winds through the city. Disembark near the Tiergarten, the city’s largest park, established in the 1600s for
Excursion: The Music and Art of Berlin. Peek behind the scenes at the Philharmonie, home of the Berlin Philharmonic, during a tour of the landmark concert hall. Then, admire the art collection at the Gemäldegalerie, a top museum with an extensive collection of paintings from the 13th-18th centuries. Works by master artists, ranging from van Eyck and Rembrandt to Raphael and Caravaggio, are on exhibit.
Berlin Wall
River Spree
Reichstag Bradenburg Gate
Pergamon Museum Hotel
City of Berlin Berlin Potsdam
GERMANY
Overnight Featured Site
the years before and after the Nazis expelled them from their homes. Educational Focus: A Witness’ Account of World War II and Cold War Berlin. For a true insider’s view into life during the turbulent years of the middle 20th century, listen to a riveting talk by a resident of that era.
Excursion: Dinner and a Concert. Gather for dinner at a restaurant, followed by a concert.
Independent Exploration: The rest of the day is free to explore Berlin on your own.
Day 7 – Berlin |
Day 8 – Berlin |
Excursion: Germany’s Jewish History. Delve into the history of Germany’s Jewish community at the Jewish Museum Berlin. Open since 2001, the museum reaches back to the Middle Ages and explores 14 different periods of history through religious, artistic, and everyday objects; photos, and letters; and interactive displays. Continue to Schöneberg Town Hall, most famous for its balcony where President Kennedy in 1963 declared, “Ich bin ein Berliner.” The Town Hall also has a poignant exhibit, “Wir Waren Nachbarn,” or “We Were Neighbors,” which tells the stories of the Jewish residents of this district during
Excursion: The Museum Island. Visit Berlin’s Museuminsel, a Spree River island that is home to five of the city’s world-class museums. Marvel at the precious antiquities of the Pergamon Museum during a guided tour.
HILTON BERLIN |
BERLIN
The Hilton Berlin is ideally located in the Mitte district in the center of the city on Gendarenmarkt, Berlin’s most beautiful square. Top attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops all are within walking distance. Enjoy the hotel’s two restaurants, and meet friends for drinks at the lounge. Fit in a workout and a swim at the fitness center. Wi-Fi is complimentary in the public areas of the hotel.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Carol Reynolds | June A Smithsonian Journeys Expert for the September depature will be announced soon. For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices June 12-20, 2019 September 11-19, 2019
Independent Exploration: An included full-day pass allows you to visit the other four museums at your leisure today.
Tour Price
Gather for a farewell dinner in Berlin.
All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $1,050 (limited availability).
Day 9 – Depart Berlin for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
$4,440
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included.
Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
41
Castle Square, Warsaw
Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure in Kraków.
Day 4 – Wieliczka | Excursion: Wieliczka Salt Mine. Descend into a vast labyrinth of tunnels in the Wieliczka Salt Mine. View incredible statues, monuments, and altarpieces that have been sculpted from salt blocks, and witness the sparkle from salt-hewn chandeliers illuminating the Chapel of St. Kinga. Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner and folkloric performance.
Day 5 – Ojcow National Park |
Market Square, Kraków
Itinerary Day 1 – In Transit
Kraków
Depart for Kraków, Poland.A
Day 2 – Kraków |
A One-Week Stay in Poland
Arrive in Kraków and transferA to the Hotel Unicus Palace. After settling in your hotel, enjoy a guided walk to explore the hotel’s surroundings.
A medieval gem with a World Heritage historic quarter, Kraków is one of Europe’s most delightful cities. It was the ancient seat of the Polish kingdom for nearly 500 years and it remains Poland’s center for cultural and academic life. As you uncover Kraków’s history and witness fascinating sites, experience the mythical atmosphere permeating the city’s historic buildings, city streets, and medieval squares. Along the way, hear legends of heroes, war, and survival; spend a day in the capital city of Warsaw; and immerse yourself in a wealth of cultural riches.
Highlights Include Kraków: Explore the Old Town, Wawel Castle courtyard, Royal Cathedral, the Market Square and its 15th-century Cloth Hall, and the Gothic Basilica of the Virgin Mary. Ojcow National Park: Spend the day at a scenic national park. Hike by the unusual rock formations and tour Pieskowa Skala Castle. Wieliczka Salt Mine: Marvel at the intricate 42
Pieskowa Skala Castle, Ojcow National Park
salt carvings, underground lakes, and unique chapel in Europe’s oldest salt mine, a World Heritage site. World War II Sites or Nowa Huta: Choose between two excursions to personalize your journey. Visit Auschwitz and Birkenau to commemorate the many lives lost here during World War II, or explore Nowa Huta, a model Communist community during the Soviet years. Warsaw: Journey by train to Poland’s capital city. See the Chopin Memorial, the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, Madame Curie’s house, the Royal Castle, and St. Anne’s Church in the Old Town, a World Heritage site.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Excursion: Ojcow National Park. Relish the beauty of Ojcow National Park. Poland’s smallest but loveliest park spans woodland, gorges, and lush meadows peppered with castle ruins and quaint villages. See the park’s limestone formations including the 80-foot-tall wonder of nature known as Hercules’ Club. At the park’s northern end, visit the 14th-century Pieskowa Skala Castle. Relax over lunch and conversation at a restaurant on the castle’s grounds.
Day 6 – Auschwitz or Nowa Huta | Personalize Your Journey | Choose one of the following excursions:
Day 3 – Kraków |
•Auschwitz. Pass through the gateway inscribed with, “Work Makes Freedom.” Witness powerful exhibits and inmates’ stark quarters. Continue to Birkenau, a site that once held one hundred thousand prisoners.
Excursion: Highlights of Kraków. Climb Wawel Hill to view the Renaissance castle’s arcaded courtyard and step inside Wawel Cathedral. Cross Market Square’s cobblestones and listen for the hourly bugle call that rings over rooftops. Evoke medieval times while browsing the stalls in Cloth Hall, and trace the footsteps of Copernicus with a visit to Collegium Maius, the oldest building of Jagiellonian University.
Featured Site
POLAND
Auschwitz
Educational Focus: Poles – Citizens of the World. With a local expert, discover the cultural contributions of Poland’s most famous residents and their impact on the world beyond their home country’s borders.
Meet your fellow travelers at a welcome reception, followed by a welcome dinner. Educational Focus: Historical Heritage of Kraków. This delightful city was the royal capital of Poland for more than five centuries. Join a local expert and learn about its turbulent past and present-day role as a living museum of historic architecture.
Warsaw
Overnight
•Nowa Huta. This neighborhood was designed as the ideal Communist community. See the iconic architecture of the area and visit a Communiststyle apartment. Enjoy a traditional lunch.
Day 7 – Warsaw |
Savor Kraków’s specialties during lunch in Old Town.
Excursion: Wonders of Warsaw. Journey by train to the capital city. Travel along Old Town’s Royal Route and admire the elegant façade of St. Anne’s Church. See the bronze Chopin statue and the Warsaw Ghetto Monument, and pass by the splendid Royal Castle, rebuilt from the original castle remains.
Following lunch, see the 14th-century St. Mary’s Basilica that houses an exquisite 42-foot-tall altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss.
Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum, which commemorates the brave freedom fighters who challenged the Nazi’s occupation of their
Krakow
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Zakopane
beloved city. Learn about how the intended three-day rebellion turned into an intense, deathly battle as the Home Army fought to claim back Warsaw. Witness their resilient spirit through an inspirational and emotional series of exhibitions, photographs, and presentations. Enjoy a group dinner this evening.
Day 8 – Kraków | Excursion: Kraków’s Jewish Quarter. The storied Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz features many scenes from Spielberg’s Schindler’s List. Step into Wolnica Square and stroll through this historic neighborhood. In the district of Zabłocie, visit Oskar Schindler’s factory, now turned into a museum that chronicles life in Kraków before and around World War II.
HOTEL UNICUS PALACE | KRAKÓW The Hotel Unicus Palace, newly opened in 2017, offers luxurious accommodations near many of Kraków’s historic sites, including Cloth Hall and St. Florian’s Gate. Two dining options feature the exceptional flavors of Polish and international cuisine, and guests may enjoy the property’s sun terrace, relaxing sauna, and comfortably appointed rooms with air-conditioning and a minibar. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Hugh Agnew | May Ursula Rehn Wolfman | September For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices May 31-June 8, 2019 September 13-21, 2019
Independent Exploration: Your final afternoon in Kraków is at leisure.
Tour Price
This evening, gather with fellow travelers for a farewell reception and dinner at a local restaurant.
VAT is included.
Day 9 – Depart Kraków for the U.S. | Transfer to the airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
$3,840
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018!
All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $750 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
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Zytglogge clock tower and shopping promenades, Bern
Brienz Rothorn Railway
Einstein Museum, use an audio guide to learn about the life and work of Albert Einstein. Independent Exploration: Enjoy free time for lunch and exploring on your own in Bern. Educational Focus: Wines of Switzerland. Sample Swiss wines as you learn about the country’s wine industry from a local lecturer.
Day 5 – Kandersteg | Educational Focus: Mountaineering. Switzerland enjoys a long tradition of mountain climbing. Join a local expert and discuss this popular pastime.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
Itinerary
Swiss Alps A One-Week Stay in Thun
Highlights Include Thun: Enjoy a stay in this quintessential Swiss town with stunning mountain views and a charming historic district. Charming Cities: Explore Lucerne and see works by Picasso and other great artists at a local museum. Visit Bern, the Swiss capital. 44
Glacial Lakes: Cruise the sparkling turquoise waters of lakes Thun, Lucerne, and Brienz. Hike around scenic Lake Oeschinen. Train Travel: With your custom rail pass, experience the famous Swiss transportation system, including gondolas and cable cars as well as trains, on many outings. Take an antique steam train to the top of the Brienzer Rothorn.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Zurich
Bern
Thun
Spiez
Lucerne Rothorn
Brienz Interlaken
SWITZERLAND
Depart for Zürich, Switzerland.A
After lunch, take the train back to Thun.
HOTEL FREIENHOF | THUN
Day 2 – Zürich | Thun |
Day 6 – Lauterbrunnen Valley Mürren |
On an island in the middle of the Aare River, the Hotel Freienhof is steps from the Aarequai, Thun’s lively waterfront, and the Old Town. The train station also is a short stroll away, making the hotel ideally located for exploring the Bernese Oberland. Enjoy local specialties and international cuisine in the hotel restaurant. Each evening, retire to your comfortable guest room. Wi-Fi is complimentary.
Day 3 – Lake Thun | Oberhofen | Spiez |
The Alps: Ride a gondola from Kandersteg to beautiful Lake Oeschinen. Hike through the breathtaking Lauterbrunnen Valley. Visit the town of Mürren, reachable only on foot or by train and cable car.
Featured Site
Day 1 – In Transit
This evening, gather for a welcome reception and dinner with your fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers.
Chapel Bridge, Lucerne
Overnight
Return to Kandersteg via gondola and enjoy a hearty lunch.
Arrive in Zürich. TransferA to Thun and check in to the Hotel Freienhof.
Tucked into the cultural and geographic heart of Europe, Switzerland nourishes the soul with its breathtaking mountains, crystalline lakes, and crisp Alpine air. Explore the Bernese Oberland by train and boat, and feel exhilarated after walks through the countryside. Stroll through pictureperfect towns, where flower-filled window boxes adorn gingerbread chalets. Discover the fairy-tale cities of Bern and Lucerne, where red-tile roofs and delicate church spires fill the skylines. See the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, the Bernese Alps’ trio of iconic peaks, and ride a steam train to the highest peak of the Emmental Alps.
Excursion: Lake Oeschinen. Hop on a train to Kandersteg, where a gondola whisks you toward Lake Oeschinen, nestled atop the town at nearly 5,200 feet above sea level. Enjoy a hike along pastures filled with wildflowers and cows grazing on the lush, green grass to the turquoise glacial lake, where you can sit and enjoy the view.
Excursion: Lake Thun. Cruise on crystal-clear Lake Thun to Oberhofen. Along the way, delight in views of Swiss chalets and fishing villages perched on the shores. In Oberhofen, marvel at a 13th-century castle with Neo-Gothic and Turkish architectural styles. Continue to Spiez. Enjoy lunch with a view in Spiez. Independent Exploration: Spend the remainder of the day at leisure in Thun.
Day 4 – Bern | Excursion: Bern. Enjoy a guided walking tour of historic Bern. A few of Bern’s highlights include the Clock Tower and the Cathedral of Bern, a stunning example of late Gothic architecture. Visit the Bern Historical Museum and browse exhibits representing the history of Bern from prehistoric times to the present. At the integrated
Excursion: Lauterbrunnen Valley. Board a train for a journey to the idyllic Lauterbrunnen Valley. After a cable car ride to Grütschalp, hike to Winteregg and on to Mü̈rren, an attractive car-free town. On a clear day, you may witness the iconic North Face of the Eiger peak, as well as Mönch and Jungfrau. Local Flavor: Enjoy dinner in Thun tonight.
Day 7 – Lucerne | Excursion: Lucerne. Begin the day with a train ride to Lucerne, where cobblestone streets and slender spires evoke the storybook image of a Swiss town. Explore the medieval Old Town and cross the famous Chapel Bridge. The bridge is cited as one of Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridges! Then absorb the pretty sights along the bay during a cruise on the deep blue waters of Lake Lucerne. Delight in a visit to the Rosengart Collection and admire works of art by Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso as well as Monet, Matisse, and other renowned artists.
Kandersteg
Mürren Lake Oeschinen
Day 8 – Brienz | Rothorn | Excursion: Brienz and the Rothorn. Brienz is world-renowned for its wooden chalets and Alpine backdrop. The village is steeped in centuries of wood-carving tradition and you may encounter some of this storied practice, such as carved road signs and sculptures, during a walking tour through the town. At the fairy-tale Brienz Rothorn Railway station, built in 1892, board a steam train for a breathtaking ride past forests and meadows to the top of the Rothorn. Savor a delicious lunch accompanied by a captivating panorama. Return to Brienz and cruise on the gentle waters of Lake Brienz to Thun. Tonight, celebrate the end of an exciting journey! A folkloric singing group entertains you with local folk songs and the Alpenhorn during a special farewell reception and dinner.
Local Flavor: Dine at a local restaurant for lunch.
Day 9 – Depart Thun for the U.S. |
Independent Exploration: The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore Lucerne on your own.
Transfer to the Zürich airport for the return flights to your gateway city.A
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Ursula Rehn Wolfman | Juy Diana Toman | August For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices July 17-25, 2019 August 28-September 5, 2019 Tour Price
$4,340
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. !All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $690 (limited availability). Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
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Athens
lined with whitewashed homes in Poros Town and tiny St. George Square. Pass bustling shops along the sparkling waterfront on your way to the Archaeological Museum of Poros for a tour. Over a traditional lunch at a local taverna, converse with island residents about daily life in Greece. Independent Exploration: Meander through Poros Town on your own or spend the afternoon on beautiful Askeli beach by the hotel. Educational Focus: Classical Greece. Discuss ancient Greece’s influence on the Western world with a local speaker.
Day 5 – Epidaurus | Nafplio | Excursion: Epidaurus. Tucked amid pine-clad hills, Epidaurus is famous for its ancient theater, built in the 4th century B.C. and still in use today. The structure seats up to 14,000 people and has phenomenal acoustics; a coin dropped in the theater center can be heard in the highest seat. Poros
Athens and Poros
Itinerary Day 1 – In Transit Depart for Athens, Greece.A
A Stay in Greece
Day 2 – Athens Arrive in Athens and transferA to the NJV Athens Plaza.
No Single Supplement! Explore Greece’s enchanting beauty and unrivaled archaeological treasures in Athens, which entices with a heady mix of antiquity and modernity. Next, cruise the glittering aquamarine sea to the sun-splashed islands of Poros and Hydra. Visit legendary archaeological sites in Epidaurus and Mycenae. Immerse yourself in the flavors, colors, and traditions of Greece. From art to science and democracy to philosophy, the accomplishments of the ancient Greeks have shaped the foundations of Western civilization. Experience Greece’s living legacy firsthand during two nights in vibrant Athens and six nights on delightful Poros.
Highlights Include Athens: Ascend the steps to the mighty Acropolis to view the Parthenon, and view the many artifacts of the Acropolis Museum. Plus, see the university area during a city tour. Poros Town: Feel the essence of quiet Greek life by staying on the island of Poros. Explore the lovely main town during a walking tour, visit 46
Independent Exploration: Make your own plans for sightseeing and dinner. Located on Syntagma Square, the hotel is conveniently situated near many attractions. In the Plaka, take an evening stroll, or “volta,” a popular social event when the sun goes down. Enjoy dinner on your own. Epidaurus
the archaeological museum, and get to know residents during a special event. Epidaurus: Imagine Greek dramas unfolding in this remarkably preserved ancient theater. Nafplio: Revel in this beautiful town, a historic Venetian seaport and Greece’s first capital. Hydra: Cruise to this nearby Saronic Island— noted for its distinctive architecture, rugged terrain, and lack of cars—for a memorable day of exploration.
Day 3 – Athens | Poros | Excursion: Athens. Explore the birthplace of democracy. See Athens’ famous neoclassical trio: Athens Academy, the University of Athens, and the National Library. At the Acropolis Museum, gaze down through glass flooring to see the ruins of an ancient neighborhood. Ascend the gleaming Acropolis, and admire the classical architecture of the Parthenon. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant to sample Greek specialties. This afternoon, transfer to the port of Piraeus and board a Flying Dolphin hydrofoil bound for the island of Poros. Check in to the New Aegli Hotel.
Savor a delicious lunch of classic Greek cuisine. Excursion: Nafplio. Set on a rocky peninsula over the Argolic Gulf, this historic city briefly was the first capital of Greece during the War of Independence after Greek forces wrested it from Ottoman control in 1822. Soak up the town’s medieval ambiance as you see ancient castles and neoclassical mansions on a guided walk, then explore more on your own afterward.
Mycenae
GREECE
Nafplio
Athens Epidaurus
Poros Hydra
Aegean Sea
Overnight Featured Site Ship Motorcoach
Return to Poros, and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 6 – Hydra | Take a water taxi from the hotel to the port, and take a hydrofoil to the nearby island of Hydra. Excursion: Hydra. Cruise to Hydra, gem of the Saronic Gulf. This car-free island is celebrated for its exquisite harbor and superb stone architecture. Visit the National Archives for a look at the 18thand 19th-century history of both Greece and Hydra. Enjoy lunch before returning to Poros. Take the hydrofoil back to Poros and a water taxi back to the hotel. Educational Focus: Greece Today. A local speaker explains how modern attitudes and lifestyles in Greece reflect ancient customs and traditions. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a restaurant on the island.
Day 7 – Mycenae | Excursion: Mycenae. With a guide, walk among the amazing ruins of Mycenae, a powerful, wealthy city that flourished in the second millennium B.C.
Mycenae: For centuries, Mycenae was the most powerful kingdom in Greece. According to legend, it was home to Agamemnon, the king who conquered Troy.
Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 4 – Poros |
Relax over lunch at one of Greece’s highly regarded wineries and sample its vintages.
Corinth Canal: See the famous Corinth Canal.
Excursion: Poros Town. Stroll through streets
Return to Poros for a free evening.
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Corinth Canal
Day 8 – Poros | Educational Focus: Greek Art. A local expert provides insights on how the country’s visual arts have reflected its culture throughout history. Independent Exploration: Spend your final day on Poros pursuing your own interests. Local Flavor: Conclude an amazing week in Greece at a festive “glendi,” or party. After a tasty dinner, listen to a live band play spirited folk music and watch dancers perform traditional routines. If you’d like, learn the dances yourself!
NJV ATHENS PLAZA HOTEL | NEW AEGLI HOTEL |
POROS
Smithsonian Journeys Experts Veronica Kalas | April Veronica Kalas | September For further information, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org.
Tour Dates & Prices
Excursion: Corinth Canal. En route to Athens via motorcoach, marvel at the Corinth Canal, first opened in 1893.
April 25-May 4, 2019 September 5-14, 2019
Check in to the NJV Athens Plaza Hotel.
Tour Price
Gather for a final group dinner together.
Day 10 – Depart Athens for the U.S. | TransferA to the airport for the return flight to your gateway city.
(Pictured)
These properties provide a central location, comfort, and convenience. The NJV Athens Plaza Hotel is on Syntagma Square, near the Plaka and the Acropolis. Top attractions, restaurants, and shopping are just steps away. On the island of Poros, enjoy island life while at the New Aegli Hotel. Each guest room at the New Aegli has a balcony and a sea view. Other amenities include an outdoor pool and beach access.
Day 9 – Corinth Canal | Athens |
Independent Exploration: Craft your own agenda in Athens this afternoon.
ATHENS
$3,740
Includes $250 early booking savings – Book by August 31, 2018! VAT is included. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single supplement waived for solo travelers! This offer is limited, capacity-controlled and tends to sell out quickly. Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. A Flights provided for FlexAir participants.
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Waterways of Holland and Belgium
Douro River Holiday Markets Cruise
Elbe River
Small-Ship River Cruises Another way to settle in and explore Unpack once and sail into the heart of your destination on a river voyage aboard a fleet of ideal ships that accommodate just 68 to 160 guests. Some of our cruises are exclusively for Smithsonian Journeys guests, while others are shared with leading cultural and educational institutions. They feature exceptional itineraries to popular destinations worldwide as well as unique routes. And with our onboard Smithsonian Journeys Experts and fascinating shore excursions, you’re sure to have a memorable voyage. Visit SmithsonianJourneys.org to learn more.
Danube River Waterways of Holland and Belgium was a truly wonderful, joyous experience – the places visited were interesting and often awe-inspiring, the ship was a lovely base, and the leaders were marvelous – and, I might add, we had a thoroughly delightful group of fellow travelers!
Voyage through Europe | Danube, Main, and Rhine Rivers 48
BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
Rhine River A Family Journey
Becky R., Waterways of Holland and Belgium
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Find Your Journey of a Lifetime! Introducing our new trip finder on SmithsonianJourneys.org
Our Experts Featuring in-depth bios and Questions & Answers Tour Details Daily Itineraries, pricing, reading lists, maps, and hotel and ship details Special Offers Including Early Booking, Solo Traveler, and “Last Call” Savings Online Booking Easily secure your space at any time! Just Announced Tours Search for more exciting tours not featured in this catalog Sign up for Email “Be the first to know”— SmithsonianJourneys.org/Subscribe
Let us arrange your flights for you
FlexAir includes additional valuable benefits to ease the stress of travel:
A FlexAir offers flexibility and choice
• Guaranteed transfers between the airport and your overseas accommodations upon arrival and departure (in most cases). We will provide you with all of the details you need to guarantee your transfer.
FlexAir is designed to provide you with the flexibility and choice you need to personalize your air travel experience. Explore a wide range of flight options in consultation with our experienced travel professionals to select the flights, routing, class of service, and dates of travel that most fit your needs. Our partner tour operator has negotiated contracts with a wide variety of carriers that allow you to hold flight reservations and then issue your ticket close to departure without additional fees. This protects you from the need to purchase published-fare tickets, which must be ticketed within 24 hours of purchase. FlexAir reservations provide the flexibility to adjust reservations without penalty and to accommodate extensions and upgrades right up until ticketing time, usually around 45 days before departure. We look forward to providing you with more choice and the best possible itinerary for your air travel plans.
We have everything covered.
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BOOK YOUR TRIP / SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG / 877.338.8687
• Air schedule change and delay assistance. Book FlexAir to ensure assistance should schedule changes or delays impact your air travel plans. • Flight insurance worth up to $250,000, subject to policy terms, is automatically included. • Confirmed airline seat assignments at time of booking (in most cases).
Go online to learn more about these and other exceptional tours! Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat featuring the Eastern & Oriental Express
November 2-15, 2018 from $7,890 Experience an enthralling passage through Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia, wondrous countries imbued with the riches that come with long histories and diverse cultures. Begin in Singapore, and explore its fascinating medley of Chinese, Indian, and Malay architecture and cuisine. Then stamp your ticket to refinement as you board the opulent Eastern & Oriental Express train and wind through landscapes of emerald rice paddies and virgin forests. In Bangkok, cruise bustling canals and ride in a tuk tuk to see gilded wats and treasured temples, including the spectacular ruins of Ayutthaya. Continue to Cambodia to meander the impressive ruins of Angkor Wat.
Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana featuring Rovos Rail January 29 – February 13, 2019 September 3-18, 2019 September 17 – October 2, 2019 from $8,690 Discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of southern Africa. Cape Town is a showcase of Cape Dutch houses and inspiring landmarks, including Robben Island and St. George’s Cathedral. Across the country, Soweto, once the main battleground in the war on apartheid, now offers opportunity and hope for a better future. No trip to southern Africa would be complete without a safari in its greatest parks and game reserves. Experience the thrill of up-close encounters with lions lazing in the grass after a kill or elephants quenching their thirst by a watering hole, and feel the power of thundering Victoria Falls.
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