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Spotlight on New Orleans

Spotlight on New Orleans

 

 

 

Spotlight on New Orleans

collette_logo_197x59

$1,759.00

From $1,759* pp | 5 Days •  6 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 


Step into a soulful city abound with rich history, mouth-watering Cajun and Creole cuisine, and an incomparable soundtrack.

  • Enjoy an elegant dinner at the Court of Two Sisters, one of New Orleans’ most famous restaurants.
  • Indulge in a taste of a New Orleans favourite – beignets at Café Du Monde.
  • Journey through Louisiana’s swamp country on a narrated cruise.

An Adventure in Culture

Get to know the “birthplace of jazz” during your extended stay in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. Discover its unique flavours during a cooking class featuring the popular dishes of the city, as well as a dinner at the famous Court of Two Sisters. Head out to the swamp to enjoy a cruise tour of the bayous to learn about the history and ecology of this fascinating ecosystem. Learn the secrets of the city’s famous French Quarter on a walking tour featuring St. Louis Cathedral and the French Marketplace. Come to know its music, when taking in a spirited jazz revue at Irvin Mayfeild’s Jazz Play house. You will be taken on a delightful discovery through the sights, sounds and tastes of the eclectic city of New Orleans.

Itinerary

Day 1. New Orleans, Louisiana – Tour Begins
Step into a cultural melting pot in the “Jazz Capital of the World” – New Orleans! This soulful city abounds with rich history, mouth-watering Cajun and Creole cuisine, and an incomparable soundtrack.

icons_food  icons_therma  High 27 Low 14   icons_hotel  Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans

 

Day 2. French Quarter

Get to know the city’s famous French Quarter on a walking tour featuring the majestic St. Louis Cathedral, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Continue on to the bustling French Marketplace where you’ll explore Pirates Alley, the Cabildo, the Presbytere and the Pontalba. Stop to taste a true New Orleans favourite – beignets at Café Du Monde. Tonight, roll up your sleeves and prepare to discover how to cook New Orleans-style! During a unique cooking demonstration at the New Orleans School of Cooking, your chef will indulge you in everything that Louisiana cuisine has to offer. Following dinner, discover why New Orleans is known as the “Birthplace of Jazz” when you take in a spirited jazz revue at Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner  icons_therma  High  27 Low  14   icons_hotel  Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans

 

Day 3. French Quarter

Set out on a drive along New Orleans’ historic Esplanade Avenue. Then, journey through Louisiana’s swamp on a cruise* narrated by your captain. Learn about the history and ecology of this fascinating ecosystem while keeping an eye out for wildlife including bald eagles, herons, turtles and alligators! Return to New Orleans and spend the remainder of the day at leisure to discover this great city your way.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  27  Low  14   icons_hotel  Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans

 

Day 4. New Orleans

This morning, enjoy a panoramic tour of New Orleans with a local guide. Begin by seeing St. Louis Cemetery #3 which opened in 1854 and holds some of the most elaborate crypts found in the city’s cemeteries. Then, relax during a drive along the shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain. This romantic road eventually leads to St. Charles Avenue, whisking you past gorgeous mansions as well as Tulane and Loyola, two world-famous universities. Return to the French Quarter this afternoon. Tonight, enjoy an elegant dinner at the Court of Two Sisters, one of New Orleans’ most famous restaurants.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  27 Low  14   icons_hotel  Royal Sonesta Hotel New Orleans

 

Day 5. New Orleans – Tour Ends

Your tour of this captivating city comes to a close today.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

  • Louisiana is 16 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
  • The highest point on this tour is approximately 600 feet above sea level.
  • The currency in the United States is the United States Dollar.
  • For electricity, the United States uses 120 Volts.
  • Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.

This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven ground and cobblestoned streets.

 

May 2016.

May 9 – May 13.                $1,759

May 16 – May 20.              SOLD OUT

 

September 2016. 

Sep 5 – Sep 9.                    $1,759

Sep 12 – Sep 16.                $1,759

October 2016.

Oct 3 – Oct 7.                      $1,759

Oct 24 – Oct 28.                  $1,759

November 2016.

Nov 7 – Nov 11.                  $1,759

Nov 21 – Nov 25.                $1,759

Nov 28 – Dec 2.                  $1,759

December 2016.

Dec 12 – Dec 16.                $1,759

January 2017.

Jan 9 – Jan 13.                   $1,759

Jan 16 – Jan 20.                 $1,759

February 2017.

Feb 6 – Feb 10.                   $1,759

Feb 20 – Feb 24.                 $1,759

March 2017.

Mar 6 – Mar 10.                   $1,759

Mar 27 – Mar 31.                 $1,759

April 2017.

Apr 2 – Apr 6.                       $1,879

Apr 9 – Apr 13.                     $1,759

Apr 23 – Apr 27.                    $1,759

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Spotlight on New Orleans

Winter in Yellowstone

 

 

 

Winter in Yellowstone

collette_logo_197x59

$4,119.00

From $4,119* pp | 7 Days •  12 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 


Find yourself up-close to wildlife and amid a rare blend of elegance and western charm that sparkles in the wintertime.

  • Join a park ranger on a private walking tour to learn the history of Yellowstone’s colossal geyser, Old Faithful.
  • Yellowstone’s winter wonderland comes alive as you travel by snowcoach to observe the Fountain Painted Pots, Fire Hole Canyon and the Madison Warmer Hut.
  • See the tranquil Lamar Valley tucked in the scenic north west corner of Yellowstone.

A Snow-Covered Wonderland

Find yourself amid a rare blend of elegance and western charm that sparkles in the wintertime. Get up-close to wildlife on a delightful sleigh ride to the National Elk Refuge and view hundreds of Elk in their natural habitat. In Yellowstone National Park, board a Snow Coach and be transported over the snow covered landscape and by some of the park’s most stunning scenery. Take a brisk walking tour led by a Park Ranger to learn the history of the famous Old Faithful geyser and view the amazing natural phenomenon in action. In Lamar Valley, be surrounded by complete tranquillity in a favourite hangout for the park’s wildlife. Travel through picturesque Caribou Targhee National Forest for stunning views of the Grand Tetons. The endless natural beauty of a winter in Yellowstone will astound you.

Itinerary

Day 1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Tour Begins
Your adventure begins in Jackson Hole, America’s most famous cowboy town. Find yourself amid its rare blend of elegance and western charm that sparkles in the winter.
icons_food  Dinner   icons_therma  High 0 Low -14   icons_hotel   The Lodge At Jackson Hole

 

Day 2. Jackson Hole – Grand Tetons – Yellowstone Snow Lodge

Take a drive through the majestic Grand Tetons to the entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Your Yellowstone winter adventure begins by boarding a snowcoach. This unique vehicle will transport you over the snow-covered landscape and past some of the park’s most stunning scenery — including Moose Falls, Lewis Falls and West Thumb Geyser. The coach will continue over Craig Pass and on to Old Faithful.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  -3  Low  -18   icons_hotel  Old Faithful Snow Lodge

 

Day 3. Yellowstone Snow Lodge

Wake up just minutes away from Old Faithful and enjoy a brisk walking tour led by a park ranger; you’ll learn the history of this colossal geyser and view the amazing natural phenomenon in action. Later, spend free time exploring on your own. Perhaps you will choose to venture out on the trails with snowshoes or partake in some cross-country skiing.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  -3  Low  -18   icons_hotel  Old Faithful Snow Lodge

 

Day 4. Yellowstone – Mammoth – Gardiner

Board your snowcoach again for your transfer across the frozen landscape en route to Mammoth Hot Springs. During your journey, pause at some famous areas of the park, including the Fountain Painted Pots, Fire Hole Canyon and the Madison Warming Hut. Your day will be filled with incredible scenery and plenty of photo opportunities.

icons_food  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner   icons_therma  High  -3  Low  -18   icons_hotel  Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel

 

Day 5. Yellowstone – West Yellowstone, Montana

An early departure takes you to the remote Lamar Valley in the scenic northwest corner of Yellowstone. You will traverse forests and meadows before arriving in the Lamar Valley where you will be surrounded by tranquillity. This area of the park is not only breathtaking but is also an excellent habitat for the park’s wildlife. This is where, in the 1990’s, previously endangered wolves were reintroduced to the park. There are now over 400 wolves living here. We depart Yellowstone Park and cross the border into Montana before arriving in West Yellowstone for the night.

icons_food  Breakfast     icons_hotel  Holiday Inn West Yellowstone

 

Day 6. West Yellowstone – Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Today’s journey brings you south through Idaho to the picturesque Caribou Targhee National Forest. You will be amazed by the stunning views of the Grand Tetons as you make your way to Jackson Hole. Get up-close to wildlife on a delightful sleigh ride to the National Elk Refuge and view hundreds of elk in their natural habitat. Tonight, toast to the end of your winter adventure at a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  0  Low  -14   icons_hotel  The Lodge At Jackson Hole

 

Day 7. Jackson Hole – Tour Ends

Today your tour comes to a close. You will depart with truly amazing memories of the region’s breathtaking winter backdrop.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

  • The states on this tour are 16 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
  • The highest point on this tour is approximately 8,000 feet above sea level.
  • The currency in states on this tour is the United States Dollar.
  • For electricity, the United States uses 120 Volts.
  • Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.

This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.

January 2017.

Jan 8 – Jan 14.                    SOLD OUT

Jan 15 – Jan 21.                  SOLD OUT

Jan 22 – Jan 28.                  $4,119

Jan 29 – Feb 4.                    SOLD OUT

February 2017.

Feb 5 – Feb 11.                   $4,529

 

January 2018.

Jan  – Jan.                $TBA

Jan  – Jan.                $TBA

 

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Spotlight on New Orleans

Spotlight on South Dakota

 

 

 

Spotlight on South Dakota

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$2,299.00

From $2,299* pp | 7 Days •  9 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 


Discover the spirit of the American West and come to know the legends of the past.

  • Stroll along the Presidential Trail, filled with 150 years of American history.
  • Stand before the Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest sculpture still in progress.
  • Discover the inspiring colours and rock formations in Badlands National Park.
  • Explore the legendary city of Deadwood, home to Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.

Natural Beauty of the American West

Discover the spirit of the American West. Travel to the legendary Black Hills and see the American prairie as it was 300 years ago. Explore the legends of the city of Deadwood, home to Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Travel the backcountry of Custer State Park and along the impressive Needles Highway lined with famous granite spires. Visit magnificent Mt. Rushmore. See Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain sculpture still in progress. Journey through the natural beauty of Badlands National Park. Discover the fascinating history and stories of the Lakota and Sioux at a Native American lecture.

Itinerary

Day 1. Rapid City, South Dakota – Tour Begins
Welcome to Rapid City, gateway to some of America’s most intriguing and beautiful locations. Tonight, gather for dinner and experience the true West as a local Native American joins you to share stories of the Lakota and Sioux tribes’ way of life…past and present.
icons_food  Dinner   icons_therma  High 25 Low 6   icons_hotel  Hilton Garden Inn Rapid City

 

Day 2. Rapid City – Keystone – Rapid City

Arrive at Mount Rushmore, whose epic figures carved in stone represent the first 150 years of American history. Stroll along the Presidential Trail, providing the closest access to the iconic sculpture. Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial and learn the story behind the world’s largest mountain sculpture still in progress. The memorial includes the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Centre, the sculptor’s studio, and an orientation centre and theatres. Many Native American artists and craftspeople create their works at the memorial and welcome the chance to share how their culture influences their art.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  25  Low  6   icons_hotel  Hilton Garden Inn Rapid City

 

Day 3. Rapid City – Custer – Rapid City

Learn about Black Hills gold on a tour through Riddle’s Black Hills Gold and Diamond Factory. Here you’ll see skilled artisans hand-craft South Dakota’s official state jewellery with time to purchase some of the best hand crafted items in South Dakota. Next, travel through 14 miles of magnificent rock formations on the fascinating Needles Highway. Its curving rock tunnels and steep rock spires provide a breathtaking backdrop. Later, drive through Custer State Park where a band of bighorn sheep, a herd of majestic elk, or buffalo may be seen.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  18  Low  0   icons_hotel  Hilton Garden Inn Rapid City

 

Day 4. Rapid City – Hot Springs – Rapid City

Set out for Hot Springs to see the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. Enjoy a guided tour through part of this endless prairie of 11,000 acres where over 400 wild horses run free. This is how America appeared 300 years ago. You’ll also see Indian petroglyphs over 10,000 years old, a prairie dog town, an authentic Native American Sun Dance site, and the movie set from the classic, Crazy Horse. Continue on to Prairie Edge, a Plains Indian store and museum filled with native art and handmade crafts & jewellery. This work remains faithful to the Plains Indian spirit and tradition.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High 18 Low  0   icons_hotel  Hilton Garden Inn Rapid City

 

Day 5. Rapid City – Badlands – Wall – Rapid City

Today, explore larger-than-life Badlands National Park. Upon arrival, make a stop at the visitor centre. Set the stage for your adventure with its informative exhibits, displays and video introducing you to this area. The Badlands Loop Road is a marvel of vibrant colours and rock formations created by mineral deposits. Next, enjoy a stop at Wall Drug, an authentic store from 1936, where there is time for lunch and browsing. The afternoon is yours. Venture out on your own or relax at your hotel. As always, your Tour Manager will be available to offer expert suggestions on what the area offers.

icons_food  Breakfast  icons_therma  High  18  Low  0   icons_hotel  Hilton Garden Inn Rapid City

 

Day 6. Rapid City – Deadwood – Spearfish – Rapid City

This morning you travel to Deadwood, a rollicking western town and National Historic Landmark. Perhaps you’ll fulfil a childhood dream of living in the Old West. Faithful recreations of turn-of-the-century streetlamps light the way through accurately restored architecture. Upon arrival, a local guide introduces you to the history of the city including a visit to Mount Moriah Cemetery. You’ll also make a stop at Kevin Costner’s Tatanka: Story of the Bison. This interpretive centre features large, awe-inspiring sculptures depicting the relationship of bison and the Lakota Native Americans. Then, enjoy some time to ramble through Deadwood where gold, gambling and gunpowder were once the order of the day. Enjoy dinner at a favourite local restaurant in the historic city of Spearfish.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  18  Low  0   icons_hotel  Hilton Garden Inn Rapid City

 

Day 7. Rapid City – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close today.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

  • South Dakota is 16 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
  • The currency in the United States is the United States Dollar.
  • For electricity, the United States uses 120 Volts.
  • Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.

This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven ground and cobblestoned streets.

May 2017.

May 12 – May 18.                 $2,299

May 19 – May 25.                 $2,299

May 26 – Jun 1.                    $2,299

June 2017.

Jun 2 – Jun 8.                       $2,369

Jun 9 – Jun 15.                     SOLD OUT

Jun 14 – Jun 20.                    $2,369

Jun 16 – Jun 22.                    $2,369

Jun 23 – Jun 29.                    $2,369

Jun 30 – Jul 6.                       $2,369

July 2017.

Jul 7 – Jul 13.                        $2,369

Jul 14 – Jul 20.                      $2,369

Jul 21 – Jul 27.                      $2,369

March 2018.

Mar  – Mar .                TBA

 

April 2018.

Apr  – Apr .                   TBA

 

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Spotlight on New Orleans

Spotlight on Washington, D.

 

 

 

Spotlight on Washington, D.

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$2,199.00

From $2,199* pp | 6-7 Days •  8 – 9 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 


American democracy comes to life in the nation’s capital city on an extraordinary tour of America’s history and culture in Washington, D.C.

  • Spend 5 nights in the heart of Washington, D.C.
  • Glimpse into the life of America’s first president with a visit to his estate, Mount Vernon.
  • Tour the U.S. Capitol building.

American History and Culture

The epic story of American democracy comes to life in America’s capital city. View the extraordinary monuments throughout the National Mall that commemorate the heroes who have shaped our past, including the World War II Monument, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial. Wander Mt. Vernon’s beautiful plantation grounds and tour the beloved home of George Washington. Uncover the gems of the Smithsonian Institution as you explore some of its world-renowned museum collections. Tour Washington National Cathedral and admire the architecture of this magnificent building that took 83 years to complete. On a guided tour, learn about Ford’s Theatre where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Join us for this extraordinary exploration of America’s history and culture in Washington, D.C.

Itinerary

Day 1. Washington, D.C. – Tour Begins
Explore America’s heritage and history on this in-depth tour of the capital city of the United States – Washington, D.C.
icons_therma  High 27 Low 17   icons_hotel  Marriott Hotel Washington DC

 

Day 2. Washington, D.C.

Your day begins with a stop at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Centre for a guided tour of this historic and storied building. Then, discover the celebrated history of America’s capital on a tour with a local expert. Delight in wonderful views of the White House, National Mall and many monuments and museums. We continue with stops at the moving World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Korean War Memorial. Later, visit the White House Visitor Centre where you will gain insight into the many transitions this historic residence has undergone. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a special welcome dinner.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  27  Low  17   icons_hotel  Marriott Hotel Washington DC

 

Day 3. Mount Vernon, Virginia – Alexandria – Arlington National Cemetery

Visit Mount Vernon, the beloved home of the first U.S. president, George Washington. Wander the beautiful plantation grounds he adored and tour the home, filled with 18th-century artefacts. Next, arrive in old town Alexandria, a charming community nestled along the Potomac River. Enjoy time at leisure to wander the cobblestone streets, view the historic Colonial architecture, and stop in to some of the trendy boutiques and restaurants. This afternoon, visit Arlington National Cemetery for a narrated tour including the Tomb of the Unknowns and the Kennedy grave sites.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High 21  Low  10   icons_hotel  Marriott Hotel Washington DC

 

Day 4. Washington, D.C.

This morning we uncover some of the treasures of the Smithsonian Institution with a visit to your choice of the famed Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of American History. Among the Air and Space Museum’s collection in the location on the National Mall are the famous Wright 1903 Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, and the Apollo 11 command module Columbia. The National Museum of American History features artefacts from locomotives to the flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to compose the national anthem; to the First Ladies Hall containing many ball gowns worn by America’s First Ladies. The afternoon is at leisure to continue exploring on your own.

icons_food  Breakfast    icons_therma  High  21 Low 10   icons_hotel  Marriott Hotel Washington DC

 

Day 5. Washington, D.C.

This morning, visit the Washington National Cathedral. This magnificent church took 83 years to complete and has been host to such poignant moments in America’s history as state funerals, Presidential inaugural masses and Martin Luther King, Jr.’s last sermon. Admire the beautiful craftsmanship of the cathedral as you learn more about its history during a docent-led tour. This afternoon, visit Ford’s Theatre* where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on that fateful night in 1865. Tour the theatre and hear about the timeline of events that transpired as John Wilkes Booth’s plan unfolded. Finish your tour with a visit to the neighbouring Petersen House, the boarding house to which the fatally injured Lincoln was carried. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a special farewell dinner commemorating the end of a wonderful journey.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  21  Low  10   icons_hotel  Marriott Hotel Washington DC

 

Day 6. Washington, D.C. – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close in Washington, D.C. this morning.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

  • All states and cities on this tour are 14 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
  • The highest point on this tour is 3,680 feet above sea level.
  • The currency in the US is the US Dollar.
  • The electricity on this tour is 120 volts.
  • Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.

This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.

 

May 2016.

May 5 – May 10.                 $2,329

June 2016.

Jun 23 – Jun 28.                SOLD OUT

July 2016.

Jul 28 – Aug 2.                     $2,199

 

September 2016. 

Sep 8 – Sep 13.                    $2,199

Sep 15 – Sep 20.                 SOLD OUT

Sep 22 – Sep 27.                  $2,329

Sep 29 – Oct 4.                     $2,329

October 2016.

Oct 13 – Oct 18.                   $2,329

Oct 20 – Oct 25.                   $2,329

Oct 27 – Nov 1.                    $2,329

 

March 2017.

Mar 9 – Mar 14.                   $2,269

April 2017.

Apr 6 – Apr 11.                     $2,389

Apr 7 – Apr 12.                     $2,389

Apr 20 – Apr 25.                   $2,389

Apr 21 – Apr 26.                   SOLD OUT

Apr 27 – May 2.                     $2,389

Apr 28 – May 3.                     SOLD OUT

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Spotlight on New Orleans

Treasures of Northern California

 

 

 

Treasures of Northern California

collette_logo_197x59

$3,379.00

From $3,379* pp | 9 Days •  12 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 


With our tour, you’ll be immersed in the Northern California culture of laid back cities, some of the world’s finest wines and most historic railways.

  • Experience dinner overlooking San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Enjoy the incredible beauty of one of America’s most beloved national parks – Yosemite.
  • Glide along the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe and marvel at the inspiring scenery.
  • Journey on a splendidly restored Pullman car as you travel through picturesque Napa Valley at an unhurried pace.

Experience Northern California at its Finest

Experience the Northern California lifestyle. Explore must-see’s such as Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge. Marvel at the beauty of one of America’s most beloved National Parks, Yosemite. Glide on the pristine waters of the breathtaking Lake Tahoe on a paddlewheeler. Step back in time at Sutter’s Fort, a living museum, and discover how the first California Pioneers lived during a Pioneer Dinner. Discover some fascinating facts about train travel at the California Rail Museum. Sip California’s wines at a wine tasting. Relax in a Pullman car aboard the elegant Napa Valley Wine Train, savouring the beauty of the vineyards while enjoying a delicious dinner. This is a chance to live the good life.

Itinerary

Day 1. San Francisco, California – Tour Begins
Join us in exploring northern California. From its most popular cities – to fertile valleys and historic gold rush towns – many hidden treasures await. Your tour opens in San Francisco, the beautiful “City by the Bay.” Tonight, take in a fabulous view of San Francisco. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf overlooking the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
icons_food  Dinner   icons_therma  High 21 Low 13   icons_hotel  Marriott At Fishermans Wharf

 

Day 2. Choice of San Francisco Bay Cruise or City Tour of San Francisco

After breakfast, the choice is yours. You may take a one-hour cruise of San Francisco Bay featuring in-depth narration plus close up views of Alcatraz* and the Golden Gate Bridge; or, you may choose to join a local expert on a city tour which highlights Fisherman’s Wharf, the famous cable cars, the Golden Gate Bridge and the view of the city from the imposing Twin Peaks. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore this beautiful city independently. Perhaps you’ll hop on a cable car or enjoy the sights at Fisherman’s Wharf…the opportunities are endless.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  20  Low  13   icons_hotel   Marriott At Fishermans Wharf

 

Day 3. San Francisco – Tuolumne

Spend a relaxing morning in San Francisco. Take some time to independently explore the city, do some shopping or perhaps enjoy lunch. Then, travel east through California’s central valley and the foothills of the Sierra Mountains. Arrive in Tuolumne, a gateway to Yosemite National Park and your home for the next two nights.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  26  Low  11   icons_hotel  The Hotel At Black Oak Casino Resort

 

Day 4. Tuolumne – Yosemite – Tuolumne

A scenic drive brings you into awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park. Your tram tour through Yosemite’s unique rock formations, deep valleys, Alpine meadows and pristine wilderness will leave you absolutely awestruck. The tram ride experience showcases views from the famous valley floor and offers a fascinating perspective on this glorious park.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  26  Low  11   icons_hotel  The Hotel At Black Oak Casino Resort

 

Day 5. Tuolumne – Sacramento

Upon arrival in Sacramento, your guide will take you on a tour through Old Sacramento’s historical district filled with over 60 restored Gold Rush-era buildings, wooden sidewalks, cobblestone streets and antique gas lamps. Catch a glimpse at what life was like when thousands of “49ers” flocked here during the California Gold Rush. You’ll have plenty of time to visit the unique shops.

icons_food  Breakfast  icons_therma  High  25  Low  10   icons_hotel  Hyatt Regency Sacramento

 

Day 6. Sacramento – Lake Tahoe – Sacramento

Travel over the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the resort town of Lake Tahoe. Upon arrival, enjoy a narrated cruise of spectacular Lake Tahoe aboard the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheeler. Discover why Mark Twain was mesmerised by the beauty of Tahoe’s crystal blue waters and towering peaks. An evening visit to Sutter Fort reveals daily life during a pivotal point in California’s history. Step inside this living museum and be transported back to yesteryear. Get to know the music, food and means of transport as you enjoy your “pioneer dinner.”

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  19  Low  7   icons_hotel  Hyatt Regency Sacramento

 

Day 7. Sacramento – Santa Rosa

A visit to Sacramento would never be complete without a stop at the California State Railroad Museum, perhaps the best rail road museum in the United States. Enjoy the detailed exhibits and the many historical stories told by your museum guide. This afternoon, we make our way to Sonoma to visit one of the famed local wineries. Afterwards depart for Santa Rosa, en route watch as beautiful vineyards start to pepper the countryside.

icons_food  Breakfast     icons_therma High  19  Low  7   icons_hotel  Flamingo Conference Resort And Spa

 

Day 8. Santa Rosa – Sonoma – Napa – Santa Rosa

This morning, a special treat is in store at The Olive Press where you will be able to sample many intriguing flavours and purchase olive oil to ship anywhere you wish. A unique highlight awaits as you travel through California’s treasured vineyards and arrive in Napa, one of the world’s premier wine destinations. Breathtaking views abound. Then, climb aboard the elegant Napa Valley Wine Train. Sit back and relax as the incredible scenery, famous vineyards and delicious lunch come together, creating a one-of-a-kind experience. Raise a glass of wine to toast your California adventure.

icons_food  Breakfast & Lunch   icons_therma  High  19  Low 7    icons_hotel  Flamingo Conference Resort And Spa

 

Day 9. Santa Rosa – Tour Ends

After breakfast your tour comes to a close and we say goodbye.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

  • California is 18 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
  • The highest point on this tour is 3,990 feet above sea level.
  • The currency in the United States is the United States Dollar.
  • For electricity, the United States uses 120 Volts.
  • Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.

This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven ground and cobblestoned streets.

 

June 2016.

Jun 12 – Jun 20.                  $3,379

July 2016.

Jul 24 – Aug 1.                     $3,379

August 2016. 

Aug 7 – Aug 15.                   $3,379

September 2016. 

Sep 5 – Sep 13.                    $3,379

Sep 11 – Sep 19.                  $3,379

Sep 25 – Oct 3.                     $3,379

Sep 30 – Oct 8.                     $3,379

October 2016.

Oct 9 – Oct 17.                      $3,379

Oct 16 – Oct 24.                    $3,379

Oct 23 – Oct 31.                    $3,379

Oct 30 – Nov 7.                     $3,379

November 2016.

Nov 6 – Nov 14.                    $3,379

March 2017.

Mar 19 – Mar 27.                   $3,379

Mar 26 – Apr 3.                      SOLD OUT

April 2017.

Apr 30 – May 8.                      $3,379

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