USA Brochure 2018

USA

USA Map

CANADA Seattle

Olympia

WASHINGTON MONTANA

Portland Salem

NORTH DAKOTA

Helena

Bismarck OREGON

WYOMING NEVADA

Reno Sacramento San Francisco

Salt Lake City UTAH

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

SOUTH DAKOTA Rapid Pierre City

Topeka

GRAND CANYON Flastaff

Palm Springs San Diego

ARIZONA

NEW MEXICO

Phoenix

INDIANA

Little Rock

ALABAMA MISSISSIPPI

Dallas

El Paso

PACIFIC OCEAN

Jackson Montgomery

LOUISIANA

TEXAS Austin Houston

NORTH CAROLINA

Nashville TENNESSEE Memphis

ARKANSAS

OKLAHOMA

Spaceport America Las Cruces

Tucson

PENNSYLVANIA NEW New York JERSEY Cleveland Pittsburgh Philadelphia OHIO Baltimore Columbus Indianapolis WASHINGTON,D.C. Cincinnati WEST ILLINOIS VIRGINIA Kansas Richmond City St Louis Frankfort Charleston VIRGINIA MISSOURI KENTUCKY

Oklahoma City

Santa Fe Albuquerque

Lake Erie

Chicago

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Denver KANSAS

MICHIGAN Detroit

Des Moines

Omaha

Lake Michigan

Milwaukee

IOWA

NEBRASKA

Cheyenne

COLORADO

DEATH VALLEY

WISCONSIN

Minneapolis

MT RUSHMORE

Las Vegas Los Angeles

VERMONT Portland NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW Lake Boston YORK Ontario MASSACHUSETTS Buffalo RHODE ISLAND CONNECTICUT

Lake Huron YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK

Fresno

MINNESOTA

IDAHO Boise

CALIFORNIA

MAINE

Lake Superior

Raleigh

Columbia SOUTH CAROLINA

Atlanta GEORGIA

Savannah

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Jacksonville

Baton Rouge

New Orleans Orlando Tampa

San Antonio

FLORIDA Fort Lauderdale Miami

GULF OF MEXICO

MEXICO

Florida Keys

The Climate

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Front Cover: New Hampshire

Welcome.

At House of Travel, we strive to create the best holiday for you at the best value – that’s our service guarantee. We understand everyone has different travel needs and that’s why we love it when you bring your ideas to us because together, with our experience and local knowledge, we can create the perfect holiday at the perfect time for you.

We use the same travel sites you do, like Expedia, and many more that you can’t access. Plus, we have direct relationships with airlines and hotels around the world, which gives us extra buying power. We combine this with our expertise and negotiating skills to deliver some of the best deals and bonuses on offer that you might miss if you booked yourself. So, we promise to truly deliver the best of both worlds and that’s our guarantee.

We’ve helped create enriching travel experiences for 1.8 million New Zealanders over the last thirty years. We understand that travel isn’t just about the place you go, it’s where that place takes you.

The best holiday for you.

At the best value.

What this means: We’ll combine your ideas with our experience and expertise to deliver you the best holiday possible.

What this means: We’re committed to providing the holiday you want at the very best value possible.

We’ve got your back 24/7 from the moment you contact us until you’re home again.

We value your feedback on your last HOT holiday, so we can make your next trip even better.

We promise to utilise all our buying power to search out a great price for your holiday.

We know value means different things to different people, so we take the time to understand what’s important to you.

The best holidays are created together. Let’s chat.

THE HOUSE OF TRAVEL APP I Your holiday at your fingertips.

See www.houseoftravel.co.nz/app

or download from the App Store or Google Play

Contents General Information

1

Miami

Accommodation Ratings

Florida Keys

6 Tips for your USA Holiday

Experience West Coast

Orlando Accommodation & Sightseeing

4

Los Angeles Accommodation & Sightseeing

Experience The South New Orleans Louisiana

Disneyland Resort Anaheim Accommodation & Sightseeing

Memphis

San Francisco Accommodation & Sightseeing

Nashville

Yosemite National Park

The Mississippi River

Sonoma Wine Country

Texas

Napa Valley

Georgia

San Diego

Alabama

Little Havana, Miami

The Southern Music Journey

Palm Springs Portland

Take to the Road

Oregon

Touring by Rental Car

Seattle

Self-Drive USA

Las Vegas Accommodation & Sightseeing

Touring by Motorhome

Utah

Touring by Motorcycle

Experience East Coast

53

36

Touring USA

New York Accommodation & Sightseeing

Touring by Coach

Boston

Small Group & Rail Tours

66

Boston

74

New England Washington, D.C. Chicago

Walt Disney World Resort Las Vegas

General Information Accommodation Ratings To assist with the selection of your accommodation we have created our own rating system allowing you to compare each property. These are personal ratings offered by our people from their own experience and should therefore be used as a guide only. These ratings may alter throughout the year due to a change of circumstances.

A standard level of accommodation with a limited range of rooms and facilities. Rooms are clean and comfortable with basic furnishings.

Moderate accommodation with a reasonable range of rooms and facilities, with rooms furnished to a comfortable standard.

Superior standard of accommodation with a wide range of rooms and facilities, and a higher standard of service.

First Class accommodation with an excellent range of facilities and services. Accommodation in this rating is considered among the best in the country.

When selecting your accommodation please note that the standard bedding configuration in the United States is usually two double beds, with a maximum of two children free using existing bedding. This can vary.

Child Policy: Please note bedding configuration varies between properties and in some cases with different room types within a property. Some hotels also offer family bonuses and specials. Your Travel consultant will help you choose the hotel to best suit you and your family’s needs.

Price Indicator: The price is provided as a guide only. The actual price may differ to that indicated in this brochure due to currency fluctuations, special events, trade shows or peak periods. Your travel consultant will quote you the actual price at the time of booking. Per person pricing is in New Zealand dollars.

1

6 T IPS for your

USA Holiday

© Felix Lipov

Get outdoors, the great outdoors

What’s your flavour?

For the love of sport

For all its sparkly cities and wowfactor skylines, North America is as much about nature as it is urban aesthetics.

Take your bib because we guarantee the USA will have you drooling. The food here is phenomenal, mostly because it’s so diverse.

You’ll already know the acclaimed national parks, but there’s also lesser-known Bryce and Zion, Great Smoky Mountains, Everglades and Olympic. For thermal activity, Yellowstone echoes with the sound of volcanic belches, while in California, Yosemite and its waterfalls provide more Kodak moments than it does water. Just.

The Grand Canyon – arguably the mother of all national parks – has inspired many, while Everglades is your one stop shop for wildlife.

From San Francisco’s seafood chowder served in its own sourdough bowl, to the classic Texas BBQ, complete with ribs dripping in special sauce, you won’t go unsatisfied in the states.

Sport. It’s the five letter word Americans utter more than any other, and if you’ve ever witnessed the media storm of the Super Bowl, you’ll know ‘the game’ is a pretty big deal. From basketball to football, baseball and hockey, if there’s a point to be scored, they’re playing.

Away from the country’s national parks, there are ample coastlines to explore, glaciers to admire and rivers with rapids so bewitching, you’ll be compelled to don a paddle and go canoeing.

2

The Deep South will awaken your taste buds with Cajun spices and ancient recipes, while California won’t disappoint with its extensive wine varietals and farm-to-table dining experiences which showcase a rich harvest sought from vineyards and ranches.

And heaven forbid we forget the drink! From a cup of Joe sipped at a roadside diner, to Kentucky Bourbon and beer made from smooth Oregon hops, you won’t go thirsty either.

World-class basketball teams such as the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers are a must-see if you’re in town (and they are too). You might not get an A-list courtside seat, but it’s worth it for the merchandise alone – baseball caps make the best souvenirs.

The ferocity of American football will have you gritting your teeth, while the atmosphere inside a baseball stadium is spine-tingling electric. Don’t forget to buy a corn dog, it’s not a genuine American experience unless a hot dog’s consumed.

© Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp

What’s life without music?

History in all its glory

Here’s a tip – tip!

Toe tapping is a widespread habit in the USA and that’s because there’s always an addictive beat to be bopping to. We’re talking blues, jazz and rock ‘n’ roll, not to mention Broadway musicals and Las Vegas shows.

A country that’s seen its fair share of transition, the USA’s history is fascinating. From assassinations to abolitions, the centuries have delivered some truly remarkable periods since it first appeared in Colombus’ telescope back in 1492.

The USA is the realm of the one dollar bill, and with good reason, they’re perfect for quick tipping.

New Orleans is well known as the birthplace of jazz, and even today, there are dimly lit bars busting with improvised melodies and trumpet swinging performers.

Many people endeavour to find out more about America’s slavery years and as one of the nation’s top museums of African-American history, the DuSable Museum in Chicago will no doubt enthrall.

In Memphis, musicians tear the roof off with melancholic blues and it’s also home to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former estate.

In the USA, every city has a song to sell. Grunge was born in Seattle and still resides there today, it is of course the final resting place of grunge kingpin, Kurt Cobain.

Whereas New York is all about Broadway’s razzle dazzle; the epitome of time-worn glamour.

For an insight into the USA’s bloody civil war, visit one of the nation’s many battlefields. The Antietam National Battlefield is particularly impressive, with immaculately preserved historic buildings and commentary. And if you love a good conspiracy, visit The Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, which details all things JFK, including his assassination.

As a relatively alien concept to the average Kiwi, in the states, tipping for almost any customerfacing service is commonplace.

That’s because for certain jobs, US salaries are far lower than their NZ equivalent and gratuities help to bump up the wages, most notably in hospitality.

It’s customary to tip your taxi driver at least 10% of the entire fare, even if you book a complimentary shuttle transfer, aim to tip the driver a few dollars. Also tip the bell staff, cleaning staff and valet attendants, again a couple of dollars is normal.

In restaurants, add 15-20% of the total bill and in bars, leave a dollar per drink for the bar staff. See what we mean about useful one dollar bills!

3

Experience

West Coast

You’ve screamed your way around the Anaheim theme parks, learned to surf at iconic Huntington Beach, applauded clever sea mammals in San Diego and you played ‘spot the movie star’ on Sunset Strip. It’s been the holiday of a lifetime, but you know that the West Coast still has so much more to offer.

San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles: three great cities, each with their own unique appeal. You could easily spend a week in each one, but it’s only when you get beyond the cities that you realise just how vast and diverse this region is. The towering Sierra Nevada mountains and eerie Death Valley are at opposite ends of the spectrum, but you’ve also got the dramatic Pacific Coast, the fabulous wine regions of Sonoma and Napa and some seriously impressive national parks. And that’s just California – it’s only a five hour drive from Los Angeles to the man-made wonder that is Las Vegas, which is a great base to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World; the Grand Canyon. Not forgetting north of California, the ‘Beaver State’ of Oregon and the ‘Evergreen State’ of Washington, with a diversity of landscapes from the picturesque Pacific coastline to the arid deserts east of the Cascade Range.

But it’s one thing to run through the near-endless list of highlights: far better that you start planning a visit.

© Visit California & David Collier

4

Los Angeles If feet could talk, yours would be complaining right now. They’ve traipsed up and down the boulevards of Hollywood and through the exclusive boutiques of Rodeo Drive, taken you on scary roller coasters at Universal Studios, and the day before that they hit Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade for some serious retail therapy and the famous pier. Tomorrow? Exploring the space shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Centre then off to Venice Beach for some of the best people watching in LA! Admire the street art and stroll the super cool Abbot Kinney, here your feet will get a break while you sample some delicious Californian cuisine.

What a trip – poor feet, lucky you.

Our favourite things to see and do Shopping – Soo many options! From West Hollywood’s Farmer’s Market, the Beverly Centre in Beverly Hills to the recently re-opened Century City Westfield and shopping with the stars on Rodeo Drive or finding a bargain at Citadel Outlets. You’re in for a shopping treat!

Santa Monica – People watch, visit the local markets, explore the wooden pier, hire bikes and cycle the 35 kilometre oceanfront boardwalk from Santa Monica to Redondo. Have your picture taken at the end of the famous Route 66.

Getty Museum – Is free to enter and has a priceless collection of art. It’s bursting with an extensive collection of antiquities, paintings, drawings, sculpture and 19th and 20th century American and European photographs.

Hiking Runyon Canyon – For some amazing views over the city of Los Angeles head to where the celebs love to hike, Runyon Canyon. It is a 160 acre park with a number of different hiking trails.

Downtown Los Angeles – Dotted with museums, historic buildings and plenty of bars and restaurants. Check out a basketball game at the Staples Centre, the historic Bradbury Building, the ultra-modern Walt Disney Concert Hall and the tasty treats at Grand Central Market. © Visit West Hollywood & Ryan Forbes Photography

Seattle Olympia

MT. RAINIER NATIONAL PARK

WASHINGTON

Portland Salem

The Broad – This brand new downtown LA gallery opened in 2016 and is home to nearly 2000 works of art from Eli & Edith Broad’s personal collection and is the most prominent collection of post-war art in the world.

The Griffith Observatory – Check out the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean to Downtown L.A. from its perch on Mt. Hollywood in Griffith Park.

Exposition Park – In Downtown LA, home to the OREGON

California Science Center, the Natural History Museum and the California African American Museum.

CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK NEVADA

CALIFORNIA Sacramento

PACIFIC OCEAN

San Francisco

Reno Lake Tahoe

Fresno

GREAT BASIN NATIONAL PARK YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Las Vegas

Santa Barbara Los Angeles Anaheim San Diego

DEATH VALLEY Palm Springs

GRAND CANYON ARIZONA

5

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SAN PEDRO HARBOUR

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For location and old world charm look no further. You can’t help but get involved with the urban village atmosphere with Third Street Promenade, cafés, shops, and nightlife all at your doorstep. For a seafood meal with a difference, try Bubba Gumps on the pier.

Hotel Erwin, Venice Beach

4

Located in the heart of Venice Beach, where seaside charm and the vibrant boardwalk combine to create an unforgettable experience. You’re only a short walk from the ocean and bike paths and only minutes away from the shopping and dining scene in Santa Monica.

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ANAHEIM

Disneyland

Katella Ave

PALOS VERDES

Hotel Carmel, Santa Monica

NORWALK

Knott’s Theme Park

Harbor Fwy

PACIFIC OCEAN

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MANHATTAN BEACH

Sepulveda Blvd

MARINA DEL REY LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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LONG BEACH

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica

2

A superb spot in the heart of Santa Monica.

Just three blocks from the beach, famous pier and the cool Third Street Promenade is just a short two block walk away. The Expo train line departs from across the road, this train will have you in Downtown LA in just 45 minutes. Perfect whether you’re exploring locally or further afield.

The LA Hotel Downtown

Wyndham Santa Monica at the Pier

3

A great spot with the beach and pier just down the road. The kids (both big and little) will enjoy the famous amusement park on the pier. Or why not catch a wave? From the hotel you can hire a bicycle and cycle the bike path to Venice Beach, which is only about 10 minutes away.

5

A modern hotel that is in the absolute heart of downtown LA. The amazing Broad Art Gallery, futuristic looking Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Grand Central Market are all an easy walk away. If you’re wanting to catch a game, the Staples Centre is a 25 minute stroll or quick taxi ride away.

Sheraton Grand Los Angeles

6

Located in the heart of the revitalised downtown area, this hotel is actually in ‘The Bloc’ a cool new office, shopping, dining and nightlife precinct. You’re on the 7th Street corridor that links the financial, fashion, jewellery and theatre districts, so great for wandering. And when you want to get further afield the metro is just on the corner.

Los Angeles Accommodation

7

Hilton Garden Inn Hollywood

This boutique style hotel has a relaxed and comfortable setting. Located by the Hollywood Hills you just have to venture out the front door and you’re within a 10 minute walk to the Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood Boulevard and the Highland Centre, which includes the Kodak Theatre and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.

9

The Garland Hop on the courtesy hotel trolley shuttle and in no time you are at Universal Studios and Citywalk. From here you can catch the metro where it’s just one stop to ‘Hollywood/Highland’ and the Walk of Fame.

When the sightseeing is done, sit and relax by the pool among seven acres of gardens here in North Hollywood.

Beverly Hills Marriott

Best Western Plus Sunset Plaza

8

Step outside and find yourself opposite the Comedy Store and Saddle Ranch Chop House, so you don’t have to go far for entertainment.

It’s easy to get out and explore the city as the local bus to Hollywood leaves right outside the door, or the Hop on hop off tour bus departs from directly across the road. After a long day exploring Beverly Hills and Hollywood (which are both a 10 minute drive away), retreat to the Mediterranean pool for a dip.

Ramada Plaza West Hollywood

10

Located on one of the main roads in West Hollywood, Santa Monica Boulevard (or you might have heard of it by its other name…Route 66!), you’re in the heart of WeHo. There are a great choice of shops and restaurants very close by or it’s less than a 15 minute stroll to the dining spots on Sunset Strip. You’re also only around a 10 minute walk from the West Hollywood Design District, with 250+ studios and leaders in art, design, food and fashion.

11

Conveniently positioned in the heart of Beverly Hills, this hotel offers a great central location from which you can explore. Be part of the buzz while you enjoy the high end shops of Rodeo Drive, just a five minute drive away. Enjoy the chic dining and sizzling nightspots of Beverly Hills and, who knows, you may even find yourself doing a bit of celebrity spotting!

Loews Hollywood Hotel

12

Head out from the ultra-stylish lobby and in no time at all you are seeing stars on the pavement as you stroll along the Walk of Fame and past the Kodak Theatre, home of the Academy Awards. Hollywood & Highland Centre with shops, dining and night life are at your doorstep. Make sure you allow some time to relax by the pool.

7

Los Angeles Sightseeing

Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Learn where the magic is created, where to find the stars, and where to have the real fun in LA. Hop on and off a double decker bus all day long taking in the sights of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Downtown LA, Chinatown, Santa Monica and more.

Deluxe Grand City Tour Discover the capital of the entertainment industry, architectural gems and playgrounds of the rich and famous on this guided tour of Los Angeles. Have your photo taken with the famous Hollywood sign, cruise Sunset Strip and see whose names you can spot on the Walk of Fame.

Universal Studios HollywoodTM VIP Experience Enjoy exclusive guided access to backlot sets, not open to the general public, along with a guided tour through the park including The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM. You also have unlimited front of line access to all rides, shows and attractions, access to the exclusive VIP lounge, a gourmet lunch and more!

Warner Bros.

Studio Tour Hollywood

Universal Studios HollywoodTM Six Flags Magic Mountain Looking for a thrill? Six Flags has some of the fastest, tallest, wildest, gut-wrenchingest rides in the US including a few recordbreakers. They have everything from pulsepounding roller coasters to options for tots.

8

Go behind-the-scenes on the world-famous Studio Tour to explore real film sets where Hollywood movies are made. Then experience rides, shows and attractions, including Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. New in 2018, is the awesome DreamWorks Theatre featuring Kung Fu Panda as you join Master Po in an all-new multisensory attraction.

Tour a working Hollywood studio, exploring sets and soundstages used to create productions such as Gilmore Girls, The Big Bang Theory and many more! Get an intimate behind-thescenes look at original props and costumes used in films, including Harry Potter. The tour ends at Stage 48 – an immersive experience providing a hands-on introduction to the world of filmmaking. ©2018 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Bike Tour of Santa Monica & Venice Beach Pedal by the famous beach and mellow streets of Santa Monica, past the iconic pier and then on to cruise the canals of Venice Beach. You can go by pedal power or flick the switch to get a boost from your electric bike. Enjoy the beautiful sun and cool breeze as your guide shares fascinating details about the neighbourhoods along the way.

Catalina Island – A Day in Paradise Located just 35 kilometres off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island is picture perfect and a world away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. The air and water are clear, the community is laid back and friendly and there’s not one traffic light on the whole island.

Hollywood Sign and Griffith Park Hiking Tour Take a guided moderate hike to enjoy the stunning views of the Hollywood sign and the LA skyline. Discover where the locals go to get away from it all and hear the stories of California legends and Tinseltown giants. Many say that this is the most tranquil part of the whole city.

© Santa Monica Tourism

Movie Locations and Stars Homes Tour The ultimate combination for movie fans.

See where many famous movies have been filmed in and around Hollywood and Downtown LA, and then visit the residential neighbourhoods of Beverly Hills and the Hollywood Hills where many movie celebrities live.

Neighbourhood Food & Culture Tour Follow your taste buds ‘off the beaten path’ during this food exploration of the incredible ethnic eats in Los Angeles. Snack your way through a mix of casual restaurants, bakeries, ethnic markets and more, learning about some of LA’s different cultures as you eat.

Hollywood – Behind the Scenes Walking Tour Discover some of the lesser-known movie theatres, ground breaking architecture and fascinating history of Hollywood.

Along the way you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the buildings, people and places that give this filmmaking mecca its distinctive charm.

9

Anaheim Anaheim is one of those rare places where it’s almost impossible to keep from grinning from dawn ‘til dusk. Discover the magic that awaits. With two Disney Theme Parks – Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park – and an energetic entertainment, dining and shopping district, the Disneyland Resort is one of the favourite holiday destinations on the US West Coast. For a taste of Americana, be sure to take in a baseball or hockey game, but be warned, even here the happiness is infectious – where else but Anaheim could an ice hockey team called the Mighty Ducks be taken seriously!? If sports aren’t your thing, get lost at the Outlet at Orange – a giant shopping and entertainment complex that’s guaranteed to keep that smile in place a little longer or cruise out to Huntington, Newport and Laguna Beaches for that Californian beach vibe.

© Visit California

Our favourite things to see and do Shopping – Outlets at Orange, Mainplace at Anaheim and South Coast Plaza have great shopping and entertainment for the whole family.

ART – Anaheim Resort Transit System allows you to get around and explore the Anaheim Resort area – it will get you to the Disneyland Resort, Amtrak and the Outlets at Orange Mall.

Rainforest Café – A thunder and lightning show, monkeys, lions and birds – this is a unique dining experience in Downtown Disney District.

Angel Stadium – Grab a hot dog and popcorn and join the locals to watch a baseball game.

Anaheim GardenWalk – There are a variety of stores and you can dine at some favourites like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., PF Changs and The Cheesecake Factory.

Interactive Dinner Experiences – At Medieval Times or Pirates Adventure.

With sword fights and duels and plenty of crowd interaction, head along to one of these unique dining experiences kids of all ages are sure to love.

Catalina Island – Enjoy a day out, only an hour’s ferry ride away from Long Beach.

Explore the island by golf cart or foot. Try zip lining, rock climbing or take one of the scenic tours on offer around the island.

Anaheim Packing District – For over 20 artisan eateries and live music, head to the Anaheim Packing District, about a 10 minute drive north of the Disneyland Resort and easily accessible by the ART.

Downtown Santa Ana – Jump on the ART shuttle and head to the emerging centre for arts, farm-to-table restaurants and craft beer at downtown Santa Ana. Just a 15 minute drive from the Anaheim Resort area.

10

Disneyland Resort Two magical Theme Parks. One incredible shopping, dining and entertainment district.

All within walking distance of one another, along with legendary Disney service and a generous helping of pixie dust! Now is the perfect time to turn an incredible holiday into the ultimate Southern California experience.

Disneyland Park

Disney California Adventure Park

The one-and-only original! Wonders and memories abound in magical lands brimming with timeless attractions, outstanding entertainment, beloved Disney Characters and astonishing thrills galore!

Must-See: Indiana Jones Adventure, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, ‘it’s a small world’, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Fantasy Faire.

More stories! More adventures! Explore seven exciting lands overflowing with immersive Disney and Pixar attractions, entertainment and dining! Sensational surroundings, spectacular shows and pure Disney imagination offer thrills and adventure for everyone.

Must-See: Toy Story Mania!, Soarin’ Around the World, California Screamin’, Frozen-Live at the Hyperion, Radiator Springs Racers, Guardians of the Galaxy-Mission: BREAKOUT!

Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Tickets

Southern California CityPASS

The multi-day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Ticket entitles admittance to both Theme Parks – Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park – for the validity of your Park Hopper Ticket. The ticket allows you to visit both parks on the same day. Three day or more tickets include Magic Morning* early entry on one day. *All tickets, offers, events, age ranges, attractions and entertainment may be seasonal and are subject to change.

Experience more of Southern California with the only ticket that provides access to four famous, can’t-miss area attractions for one great price! Each ticket includes a three day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Ticket, one day admission ticket to Legoland California Resort and one day admission ticket to SeaWorld San Diego. First use of CityPASS must be at Disneyland Resort. Does not include transportation.

Duration: 2-5, 10 Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Tickets available

Ticket expires 13 days after first use

As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties: ©Disney.

11

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park

Disneyland Park

Downtown Disney District

Downtown Disney District

Disneyland Hotel Disneyland Hotel

Disney's Grand Disney's Grand Californian Hotel&&Spa Spa Californian Hotel

Paradise Hotel Disney'sDisney's Paradise Pier Pier Hotel

Disney California Adventure ParkPark Disney California Adventure

©Disney

INTGRTO-17-60441

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel

1

Relax and take a trip through time to discover the fun of the ultimate California beach boardwalk… with a distinctively Disney touch. From the surfing Goofy statue in the lobby to the roller coaster inspired water slide at the rooftop pool, everything about this hotel tells you that you’re in for a totally unique, totally Disney experience!

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

3

The rich history and natural beauty of California welcomes guests to an elegant escape inspired by the 19th-century Arts & Crafts movement.

Enjoy the lush Mandara Spa, the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant and the special hotel guest entrance to Disney California Adventure Park.

This hotel offers enough luxuries to keep all of your senses indulged for the duration of your stay.

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©Disney•Pixar

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Disneyland Hotel Be surrounded in the spirit and wonder of Disneyland! Staying in the Adventure, Fantasy or Frontier towers you’ll love the hotel’s whimsical rooms. The special Disney furnishings, including light-up Sleeping Beauty Castle headboards, will make for a stay that your family will treasure. Enjoy monorail inspired waterslides across an amazing, immersive pool area, two delightful restaurants and more.

Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests Benefits Right Next Door – Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park and the Downtown Disney District, are just steps from your door.

Extra Magic Hour – Early Admission to the parks every day of your hotel stay. Allows registered Disneyland Resort hotel guests’ admission into select attractions on select days before the applicable park opens to the general public. Valid theme park ticket and active hotel room key required.

“Key to the Magic” – Charge meals and merchandise right to your room, and have purchases delivered directly to your hotel.

As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties: ©Disney.

Disneyland Resort Experiences

Frozen – Live at the Hyperion

Downtown Disney District

Get swept up in the magic of Frozen – Live at the Hyperion at Disney California Adventure Park. This dazzling theatrical spectacular brings some of your favourite Frozen Characters to life on stage through elaborate costumes and sets, stunning special effects and show-stopping production numbers. It’s truly an unforgettable experience that will captivate the whole family.

For a change of pace, the Downtown Disney District transforms after dark into a lively promenade offering the latest first-run movies, live concerts from world-renowned musical artists, dance and jazz clubs, major sporting event broadcasts, outdoor entertainment venues, shopping, and an eclectic mix of lounges, bars and casual to exquisite dining options not to be missed.

Disney Character Dining

Disney FASTPASS Service

Share a delicious meal along with some hearty laughs and great photo opportunities with your favourite Disney Character friends at a fun-filled Character dining experience, offered at various locations throughout the Disneyland Resort. Be sure to pre-book your Character dining experience to ensure you don’t miss out.

Included in your Disneyland Resort Park ticket is the ability to save your place in line for some of your favourite attractions, while you enjoy the rest of the park! Look out for the FASTPASS sign near the entrance of selected attractions, and check to make sure the return time works for you. Then insert your park ticket into the FASTPASS machine and it will generate a FASTPASS ticket printed with your return time. Simply return to ride at your FASTPASS return time and enjoy the attraction with minimal wait!

As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties: ©Disney. ©Disney/Pixar.

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Anaheim Accommodation W Ball Rd

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Castle Inn & Suites

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Enjoy family fun at this castle themed hotel, only a 10 minute short walk from Disneyland Resort and Downtown Disney District.

Offering spacious accommodation from hotel rooms to family suites, you’ll find something to suit the whole family at an affordable price.

Best Western Plus Stovalls Inn Beyond the pool with its famous topiary shrubs you can see the Disneyland Resort opposite. The main entrance to Disneyland Park is about a 15 minute walk away, but getting around Anaheim from this hotel is a breeze. The Anaheim Resort Transit shuttle stops right in front of the hotel.

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Cortona Inn & Suites

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For a peaceful stay after a busy day at Disneyland Resort you can’t go past this hotel with really comfortable rooms and kids suites.

It’s only a 15 minute walk to the Disneyland Resort Parks and Anaheim GardenWalk or 1.5 blocks in the other direction to the Target department store.

Desert Palms Hotel & Suites

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A great choice for families with plenty of family friendly rooms and complimentary breakfast. The kids will feel really welcome with their own registration desk, a family photo station and a ‘find Mickey’ game in the lobby. PLUS you’re just a seven minute walk from Disneyland Resort and only a five minute walk to Anaheim GardenWalk with plenty of restaurant options.

Best Western Plus Pavilions

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With just a two block walk to the Disneyland Resort and Downtown Disney District you’ll have plenty of choices for eating and entertainment. Start your day with the complimentary grab and go snacks and after a busy day of adventure, head to the outdoor heated pool and hot tub, the perfect way to relax and unwind.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Convention Center

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This suite property is in a great location just a 10 minute walk from the restaurants of GardenWalk and a 15 minute walk to the main gates of Disneyland. Start your day with complimentary breakfast and after a busy day at the parks relax around the fire pit and enjoy the complimentary evening drinks Monday through Thursday. The spacious suites will have everyone feeling right at home.

Anaheim Accommodation

Fairfield Inn Anaheim Resort

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A superb location across the road from the main entrance of Disneyland Resort, making it easy to head home for a rest or a swim in the pool before you make your way back for the evening shows. You’re also just a 10 minute walk from Anaheim GardenWalk, which is a great entertainment and dining precinct, or jump on the ART bus to get to the Anaheim Packing District, a cool area with loads of restaurants including the restored Packing House that has over 20 eateries inside a refurbished citrus warehouse.

Hotel Ménage

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Just a 10 minute walk from Disneyland Resort or you can hop on the ART bus and be there in a couple of minutes to save the feet. This hotel has a laid back atmosphere with a great heated pool and hot tub, in a tropical setting with its own palm trees. There's also a casual gastropub on-site with lots of tasty American style food, craft beers and boutique wines. At night, you can relax poolside with a cocktail and take in the view of the Disneyland firework display.

Howard Johnson Hotel & Water Playground

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Enjoy a resort feel over three hectares of gardens and walkways at this Kiwi favourite hotel. The pirate themed water park, Castaway Cove, will keep the kids happy when not at Disneyland. Not to worry adults, there is another pool amongst the gardens in a quieter area. Don’t miss a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner at Mimi’s Café adjacent to the hotel. A 10 minute walk lands you at the front gates of Disneyland Resort.

Doubletree Suites by Hilton

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That morning coffee from the lobby café is heavenly before you set out for the day.

Hop on the Anaheim Resort Transit shuttle service outside the hotel and save the walking for Disneyland. Your stylish, contemporary designed suite provides a separate lounge and bedroom, for families of up to six, and also features a fridge and microwave, which makes staying in for breakfast ideal for families.

At the end of your busy day chill out in the whirlpool spa and heated pool.

Hyatt Place at Anaheim Resort

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This hotel is centrally located in the Anaheim Resort area, an easy 15 minute walk from Disneyland. Featuring stylish rooms, there’s something for every size family here, including family friendly suites with bunk beds. After a long day at Disneyland relax and recover in the heated outdoor swimming pool and spa.

Sheraton Park Hotel

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Disneyland Resort is just under a 10 minute walk away and for some upmarket retail therapy, hop on the South Coast Plaza shuttle that leaves from outside the hotel three times a day. After a hectic day of shopping or theme parks, relax around the resort style pool, before dining at one of the four restaurants on-site. Or take a seven minute stroll to the Anaheim GardenWalk for even more dining options.

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Anaheim Sightseeing

San Diego Zoo

Citadel Outlet

An urban paradise for all ages, this is a must-see in Southern California.

With more than 4000 animals and lots of things to see and do, it’s a great place for families.

Excitement is the mood for the day as you encounter Chinese wildlife at Panda Trek and meet animals up close.

Just 25 minutes from Anaheim is the Citadel Outlet, offering around 115 shops featuring clothing, accessories, handbags, shoes, home furnishings & specialty gifts. Book a transfer which operates 7 days a week and you’ll also get a VIP savings card and a shopping bag.

SeaWorld California Get up close with sea life, soar on exhilarating rides and be wowed by amazing shows at SeaWorld California. Experience the new Orca Encounter™, featuring killer whales’ incredible natural behaviours. Plus, new for mid 2018, get ready for Electric Eel. This thrill coaster will feature multiple-launch elements, high-energy twists, and heart-pounding loops.

Best of LA Tour

LEGOLAND® California LEGOLAND® California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including LEGO® NINJAGO® The Ride. The Resort is also home to the LEGOLAND Water Park and SEA LIFE® Aquarium. Coming in 2018, LEGO City Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride! Guests will onboard a submarine to discover more than 2,000 real sea creatures including sharks, rays and tropical fish with LEGO City Deep Sea divers.

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Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park Family fun never stops when you visit America’s original theme park, Knott’s Berry Farm.

Experience world-famous thrill rides and live shows. Make sure you don’t miss Camp Snoopy, home of the PEANUTS gang. *Option to buy entry ticket only, or with transportation

Enjoy a tour of downtown LA before stopping in Hollywood where you have free time to explore the sights or you can get the shuttle to the LA Farmers Market and The Grove.

Then it’s off to the coast via Beverly Hills where you can spend time in either Santa Monica or Venice Beach. Ask about exciting add on options while in Hollywood.

San Francisco This vibrant city has so much to offer, and no visit would be complete without a cable car ride from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, where you can see the popular sea lion colony. A visit to Alcatraz is a must.

Explore the federal prison where some of America’s most famous gangsters did their time. Explore San Francisco’s diverse and colourful neighborhoods by foot, wandering the narrow alleys of Chinatown, stopping for coffee in North Beach, and finally Union Square for a spot of shopping. After a long day of sightseeing, sit and watch one of San Francisco’s sunsets over the bay.

Our favourite things to see and do Cable Cars – A ride on a cable car is compulsory in San Francisco. Grab one from Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf on Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines or the California line runs from the Financial District through Nob Hill to Van Ness Ave.

Golden Gate Bridge – Decisions, decisions – walk, cycle, drive or take a helicopter flight over the bridge. © Visit California

Union Square – Great shopping! Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Union Square.

Alcatraz – Prison for the first half of the 20th century, now a fab tourist attraction.

Ferry across to this un-missable landmark. Tickets are definitely recommended to be pre-purchased before you go – these can sell out months in advance in high season (May-September).

Sausalito – Spend an afternoon in this seaside town browsing the cafés, restaurants, shops and galleries.

© Visit California

Fisherman’s Wharf/Ghirardelli Square – Take a walk along Pier 39 and see the sea lions that have made the wharf their home. Also a great place for souvenir shopping. Chocolate lovers – Ghirardelli Square is home of the chocolate by the same name and has fabulous sundaes and chocolate treats.

Ferry Building – Shop at the Farmers’ Market with the locals for great food and crafts.

Lombard Street – Drive or walk down the most crooked part of the street between Hyde and Leavenworth streets – beware, it’s steep.

Alamo Square – See the six sisters and other ‘painted ladies’ – the famous row of colourful Victorian houses.

Mission District – San Francisco’s oldest neighbourhood has some of its hottest new restaurants and galleries.

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San Francisco Accommodation Alcatraz Island

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Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf A superb location just two blocks away from the water, where you can soak up the atmosphere and grab some delicious chowder, and only three blocks from where the cable car departs to Union Square. Dining out is a breeze with plenty of options around this area, or you can stroll to North Beach, the Italian precinct, which has plenty of great restaurants and cafés.

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A bright and funky backdrop to your San Francisco stay. On your arrival the friendly and helpful staff will greet you as an old friend and that’s exactly what you’ll feel like during your stay. It’s only a 15 minute stroll to bustling Union Square and there are plenty of neighbourhood cafés and diners nearby where you can meet an interesting mix of locals.

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Mix with the locals in the residential area of lower Nob Hill. A welcoming feeling awaits you as you step into the lobby with its fireplace and comfyeseating. You’re away from the hustle and bustle of Union Square g still within walking distance just five blocks away. Put on your and idyet Br walking shoes and in 10 to 15 minutes you will arrive at the gateway into y Ba Chinatown.

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Handlery Union Square Location plus! Walk out the front door and you’re a quick walk from Macy’s and Bloomingdales to get your retail therapy fix, or hop on the cable car at the corner and take a ride up the hill to Fisherman’s Wharf.

In the evening you don’t have to go far for a good meal whilst mixing with locals at The Grill located adjacent to the lobby. To round off your stay try and get to see some live theatre as the theatre district is a short walk away.

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San Francisco Accommodation

Hotel Fusion San Francisco

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Situated in the very heart of San Francisco, this is a superb location to base yourself.

Union Square, which is surrounded by great shops and a stop for the hop on hop off tours, is less than a five minute walk away. Then in the other direction is the massive Westfield Shopping Centre, the main cable car stop at Market St and the Powell Metro Station – all less than two minutes walk away. It is super easy to get out and about and explore, whether it be on foot or by the great local transport.

Sheraton Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel

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In the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf and close to Pier 39 you’ll find this bright, modern hotel.

Buy some delicious chocolates at Ghirardelli Square and jump on the nearby cable car to Union Square where you can shop, shop, shop.

At the end of your busy day enjoy a swim in the outdoor, heated pool and relax around the fire pits in the outdoor living room before heading to your spacious guest room and falling into your ‘Sweet Sleeper’ bed.

Hotel Zephyr

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This hotel is funky and fun and all about great service. The location is hard to beat, waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf and the closest hotel to Pier 39 with its shopping and dining – join the locals for some clam chowder at one of the seafood eateries. You’re also an easy walk to the Alcatraz ferries, Ghirardelli Square and the famous cable cars and historic streetcars – so getting around the city is a breeze.

Hotel Adagio

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San Francisco is all about style and so is this hotel. Located in the theatre district with cafés and delis all around, you will have no trouble finding somewhere to eat day or night. Meet up with fellow travellers in the hotel’s Bar Adagio, a perfect spot for a quick bite to eat and a cocktail before a night out on the town.

Its a great location for that retail therapy or a show at a nearby theatre too.

Parc 55

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Nestled in the heart of San Francisco just a short walk from the historic cable cars and fantastic shopping in Union Square and Westfield Mall. Rooms feature a bay window with views out over the city. After a busy day sightseeing why not enjoy dinner in the hip Thai restaurant Kin Khao or wind down with a cocktail at Cable 55 bar. This downtown location provides effortless convenience to everything in this amazing city.

Westin St. Francis

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This historic hotel is a landmark among the city’s hotels. Conveniently located in the heart of San Francisco and the only hotel on Union Square, unwind and be pampered at this iconic hotel. Featuring sophisticated, yet classic guest rooms and world-class dining, the historic Westin St. Francis is renowned for its legendary service.

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San Francisco Sightseeing

Deluxe Wine Country Calling all wine lovers!

Drive through California’s famous premium wine producing region before visiting wineries in both Sonoma and Napa Valleys.

Time to stroll, sip and relax and let someone else do the driving.

Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus See the sights from the top deck of an original London bus or open top sightseeing bus. The view is unbeatable as you explore this beautiful city. Hop on and off as you please with your 1, 2 or 3 day pass. Ask us about adding a trip out to Alcatraz – a must-see in San Francisco.

Bridge to Bridge Cruise See both of San Francisco’s famous bridges, the Golden Gate and Oakland Bay Bridge, on one tour. Explore stunning San Francisco by boat and learn about the city’s rich history, architecture and much more.

© Visit California/David Collier

Bike the Bay – Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito

San Francisco City Tour Photo opportunities are aplenty on this fabulous tour. San Francisco is a city of spectacular views, a variety of cultures, quaint neighbourhoods and of course the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Your tour will be both informative and fun.

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© Visit California

Muir Woods, Giant Redwoods and Sausalito Pass through the coastal mountains to Muir Woods, bursting with California Coast redwood trees, among the oldest and tallest on earth. Enjoy a stop in quaint Sausilito on your way back.

Enjoy a spectacular guided bike tour from Fisherman’s Wharf, across the famous Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito.

You are then free to explore quaint Sausalito on your own before catching the ferry back to San Francisco.

San Francisco Fogcutter City Tour Enjoy an unforgettable experience of San Francisco travelling classic California style in a vintage surfinspired ‘woody’. You’ll enjoy well known areas of San Francisco like the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park and much more!

Ask us about adding on Alcatraz.

© Visit California/Chris Leschinsky

Monterey and Carmel Tour Travel down the stunning Coastal Highway 1. See gorgeous vistas and wildlife along the scenic 17 Mile Drive, drive by the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course and visit the lovely coastal towns of Carmel by the Sea and Monterey.

Taste the Mission

Yosemite National Park This is a spectacular guided day tour through the Great Central Valley. You’ll see Yosemite’s amazing rock formations, expansive skylines and lovely waterfalls. Enjoy some free time to explore the park at your own pace – rent a bike, take a hike, or check out the visitor’s centre.

© Visit California

Little Italy & North Beach Walking Tour

© San Francisco Travel Association

If you fancy yourself as a foodie or culture enthusiast then you can’t miss this walking tour.

Soak up the lively atmosphere of one of the city’s most popular districts and experience a slice of the top things to do in North Beach, such as tasting coffee and watching bread being freshly made.

The Mission District is bursting with so many flavours and culinary favourites, as well as a rapidly changing food landscape, even the locals can’t keep up with what’s new! You’ll have a chance to talk with chefs who eagerly share stories about their creations.

Yosemite National Park Overnight Tour This small group tour takes in the highlights of the Yosemite Valley as well as the surrounding High Country that many visitors don’t get to experience. You’ll see a giant grove of Sequoia trees, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls and El Capitan, with the option of a hike or a free day to explore.

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Yosemite National Park

© Visit California

A perfect day in Yosemite National Park

Just like millions of others you’ll no doubt be drawn to the dramatic

waterfalls, giant sequoias, abundant wildlife and awe-inspiring cliffs of Yosemite National Park. One of your first ports of call has to be for that iconic Yosemite photo, looking down across this awe-inspiring valley.

Feeling active? Head for Yosemite Falls Trail which will lead you to the top of El Capitan – one of the largest rock formations in Yosemite. The hike to the top is well rewarded with close-up views of Upper Yosemite Fall and distant views of Half Dome and other Sierra mountain peaks.

Along the hike, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Yosemite Valley’s meadows and the meandering Merced River. The most popular way to scale El Capitan though is rock climbing – see if you can spot the coloured dots of people on the side as they scale the side of this enormous rock. Of course, you can always stay with your feet planted on the ground and take a photo from below.

Yosemite has many hikes from short to strenuous. Mirror Lake is a popular hike that takes about an hour, however this lake is seasonal and is at its fullest in spring/early summer. When the water is calm the lake offers beautiful reflections of surrounding cliffs.

Don’t feel like hiking? With over 20 kilometres of paved bike paths throughout the valley you can explore by bike, which are available for rent at the visitor’s centre.

But there’s no need to rush. Why not spend the night in the park or in one of the nearby villages. With nearly 2000 square kilometres of national park to explore you’ll find one day is simply not enough.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Yosemite View Lodge, Oakhurst Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite The Majestic Yosemite Hotel

© Visit California

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Our tips and highlights Always start at the Visitor’s Centre. The staff there are extremely knowledgeable and helpful especially if you are short on time and need advice on what you must really see.

Over the summer months it can be very popular. If driving, leave your car in one of the parking lots and take the free shuttle around the park. Just remember which parking lot your car is in!

The US spring and autumn seasons are the best time for visiting as they offer the best balance between longer days and less crowds.

Bear viewing? Unfortunately they’ve learnt where the humans are in the park so don’t tend to come to the more popular tourist areas. There’s plenty of other wildlife to see such as squirrels, deer and birdlife. The deer love the twilight hour and are out then.

The best time to see the waterfalls are from April to June with them reaching their peak flow around mid-May. The park is open year round, however there are a number of road closures over the winter/autumn months due to the heavy snow.

There is little to no internet service in the park – it’s all about the nature!

Younger kids (and the elderly) may not be able to handle the heat in the summer. Make sure you check the temperatures before you start planning.

When hiking make sure you have plenty of water and check conditions before you start out.

If staying at the park over the peak summer months make sure you book early as accommodation can sell out. It is often more affordable to stay just outside the park in one of the small villages.

If heading to Glacier Point for an impressive view over Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and High Sierra – watch out as the road is closed from November through to mid or late May.

Sonoma Wine Country An easy 49 kilometre drive north of San Francisco but a world away, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a genuine wine country experience. With more than 425 friendly wineries, 40 plus spas, 89 kilometres of stunning Pacific Coast, farm-to-table restaurants, rivers to kayak, redwood forests to explore, boutiques and galleries to peruse and meandering hiking and biking trails – Sonoma Wine Country should not be missed.

3 days/2 nights Suggested Self-Drive

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Healdsburg

Guerneville Santa Rosa

Day 1: Sonoma & Sonoma Valley (70km) Check out the downtown plaza of Sonoma, with its collection of cafés, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, olive oil tasting and galleries, before heading to Buena Vista Winery, founded in 1857, it is the birthplace of California wine.

Next, head to Cornerstone, a cute country marketplace which has boutique wine rooms, boutiques, yummy food and gorgeous gardens.

It’s a good place to stock up on picnic supplies.

Day 2: Guerneville, Bodega Bay & Sebastopol – Santa Rosa (158km) Make your way to the eclectic town of Guerneville, home to the Giant Redwoods at Armstrong State Preserve, before heading on the famous Highway 1 where you’ll have the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean next to you. There’s lots of small beaches and spectacular views along here, and from Nov-Apr it is whale watching season, so keep your eyes peeled.

CALIFORNIA

Bodega Bay Sonoma Sebastopol Buena Vista Winery Petaluma Cornerstone Sonoma

PACIFIC OCEAN San Francisco

Highlights worth seeing along the way

Sebastopol, is worth a stop, especially for “The Barlow” a cool open-air marketplace, covering 12.5 acres, where some great chefs, vintners and artisans have come to work side-by-side.

Jack London Historic Park, Glen Ellen – Visit the houses and gravestone of author Jack London, the property is a national historic landmark and the on-site museum is worth a visit.

Day 3: Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, Petaluma – San Francisco (195km) Santa Rosa is home to some good shopping and a thriving culinary scene. Check out the California Welcome Center, they’ll have lots of great tips on where to eat and what to see.

Sonoma Marin Cheese Trail – There are plenty of cheese makers around and this trail is a great way to see some of the most popular.

Next stop is Healdsburg, a charming small town well worth a wander.

The town plaza is lined with shops, restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries, and bars.

Bodega – Famous for being the location of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic movie ‘The Birds’. Stop at the general store which has a wall of original pictures & memorabilia from the filming.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $88 per day Our favourite places to stay: • The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma • Hyatt Vineyard Creek, Santa Rosa • Flamingo Resort & Spa, Santa Rosa

Bodega Bay – A quaint fishing village with lots of walking trails and water sports in the area.

Charles M Schulz – Santa Rosa is home to the museum that celebrates cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, you’ll also see colourful street sculptures of Snoopy & Peanuts characters throughout the city.

Wine Road – A picturesque trip taking you past wineries in the Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys of Northwest Sonoma County.

Petaluma – Home to craft breweries, port distillers and antique shops.

The price guide shown is per car hire based on fully inclusive, 1-4 day hire rate. Price does not include Earlybird or other offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

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Napa Valley Head to the Napa Valley for unforgettable experiences that nourish the body and soul.

The Napa Valley has been endowed with the perfect environment to cultivate some amazing wines, but that is just the beginning.

With more than 1200 square kilometres of friendly faces, breath-taking views, an array of accommodation options and lovely spas, incredible art and some of the world’s best food, it’s the perfect destination to relax, savour and restore.

© Visit Napa Valley

3 days/3 nights Suggested Self-Drive

Calistoga

Day 1: Napa Valley Start the day with breakfast at the Oxbow Public Market, a bustling food hall with everything from bakeries to restaurants. Then drive to di Rosa, an art preserve on the Carneros Highway that houses the most significant holding of Bay Area contemporary art.

Driving back toward Napa, you’ll see the brightly coloured Carneros Inn, a perfect spot to stop for lunch at their Boonfly Café or FARM Restaurant.

Day 2: Napa Valley – Yountville – St. Helena (20km) You’re going to need to rise early, but it’ll be well worth it. Get yourself to Napa Valley Aloft for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the valley, followed by a Champagne breakfast. It’s one of those lifetime experiences you’ll never forget.

By now you’re probably eager to do a little walking, after all that eating, drinking, and being merry. Spend the afternoon wandering around the charming town of St. Helena, stopping for a coffee in one of many cafés.

Day 3: St. Helena – Calistoga (15km) Calistoga is the northernmost town in the valley but before you arrive make sure you stop at Castello di Amorosa, an authentic recreation of a Tuscan medieval castle.

For lunch why not treat yourself at Solbar, the Michelin star restaurant at Solage Resort and Spa. Head to Indian Springs, a historic hot-springs resort for a spa treatment then enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants on Lincoln Avenue.

Saint Helena

CALIFORNIA

Yountville Napa

PACIFIC OCEAN San Francisco

Highlights worth seeing along the way Domaine Carneros – Sample the sparkling wine at this French château founded by the noble French family behind the Champagne Taittinger.

Napa Valley Wine Train – Take a tour of the wineries in the area by train or for something special enjoy a three hour dining excursion.

Silo’s Music Room – Premier Music Room and Wine Bar features the best in live rock, motown, reggae, and jazz alongside Napa’s finest wines and draft beers. Right in Downtown Napa at the Historic Napa Mill.

The Culinary Institute of America – If you have a passion for food and wine and a craving to learn, you can’t miss a stop at the Culinary Institute of America. They have cooking and wine classes, demonstrations, tastings, an award-winning restaurant and tours.

Napa Premium Outlets – Take advantage of massive savings on branded clothing like Banana Republic, Tommy Hilfiger and many more.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $88 per day

Oakville – Try wine tasting at one of the most iconic wine estates in the valley – Opus One.

Our favourite places to stay: • Doubletree Hotel & Spa Napa Valley, American Canyon • The Westin Verasa Napa • Best Western Plus Stevenson Manor, Calistoga

Round Pond Olive Mill – For a change of pace from wine-tasting, try olive tasting instead, then stay and enjoy a lunch of cheese, bread and fresh produce.

© Visit California

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The price guide shown is per car hire based on fully inclusive, 1-4 day hire rate. Price does not include Earlybird or other offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

San Diego

A perfect day in San Diego

California’s second largest city, just an hour north of the Mexican

border, still manages to retain the feel of a seaside resort town. It will always garner hordes of visitors with its world-famous SeaWorld and San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, but there are plenty of other reasons to extend your San Diego stay for a few extra days.

Some great areas of San Diego to check out are the Downtown and Gaslamp Quarter where modern architecture and Victorian-Age buildings stand side-by-side. You’ll discover eclectic galleries, chic boutiques, trendy nightclubs, rooftop bars, gastropubs, craft beer haunts and fine dining restaurants lining the streets.

Then there is the Mission Valley and Old Town, the area is within a 15 minute drive of the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego and Downtown Gaslamp Quarter. It also has family friendly dining, and shopping at the Fashion Valley and Mission Valley malls. The Old Town has boutiques, lots of Mexican restaurants, art galleries, mariachi bands and margaritas – it’s lots of fun!

If you’re in need of some fresh sea air, head to Mission Bay Park just minutes from downtown and surrounded by 40 kilometres of shoreline, with a variety of waterways, inlets and islets to explore. Mission Bay is bordered by several beach communities, each with their own distinct vibe. Mission Bay is not to be confused with Mission Beach, which along with Pacific Beach, is the hang out for the cool 20-something crowd.

Along the 5 kilometre oceanfront boardwalk, you’ll find funky surf shops, beach bars, cafés and nightclubs.

Our favourite things to see and do USS Midway – Take a trip through American naval history. This enormous ship, known as the longest serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, offers a range of interactive exhibits and numerous restored aircraft.

SeaWorld – Enjoy a one-of-a-kind family experience at SeaWorld California, with awe inspiring animal encounters, thrilling rides and amazing shows.

LEGOLAND California Resort – The Resort features more than 60 rides, shows and attractions. Train like a ninja on LEGO® NINJAGO The Ride, get a driver’s license in Fun Town and marvel at cities built entirely out of millions of LEGO® bricks in Miniland USA. San Diego Zoo & Safari – An urban paradise for all ages with more than 4000 rare and fascinating animals. See giant pandas, gorillas, tigers, flamingos, polar bears, koalas, and many more. The perfect place for family fun!

Balboa Park – The 1200 beautiful and lushly planted acres in the downtown area is home to; more than 17 museums, many performing arts venues, lovely gardens, trails, and the San Diego Zoo. Las Cuatro Milpas – If you can be patient enough to wait in the line that is pretty much always out the door, then you will be rewarded with some of the best Mexican food to ever touch your lips.

Liberty Public Market – browse the trendy eateries, bars, and specialty food and craft vendors at this bustling market, located in an updated Navy building in Liberty Station. The huge, grassy, outdoor eating area features a vegetable and herb garden, as well as live music on Sundays.

La Jolla – The coastline around here varies dramatically, from 92 metre sea cliffs, to rocky reefs, to secluded coves and wide golden sandy shores.

Although some of the beaches are inaccessible, the views are beyond spectacular.

Our favourite places to stay: • • • •

Handlery Hotel San Diego Wyndham San Diego Bayside Dana on Mission Bay Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

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Palm Springs

Our favourite things to see and do

A perfect day in Palm Springs

With over 350 days of sunshine a year, Palm Springs has the perfect

blend of outdoor adventure and casual relaxation. With everything from old Hollywood history, Native American heritage to a stellar collection of mid-century modern architecture you’ll find things are a bit different here.

Start your day by learning about the masters of mid-century modern architecture by taking a tour of some of the most notable architecture in Palm Springs before heading to the Palm Springs Art Museum which has over 28 galleries.

Outdoor action more your thing? Climb aboard the world’s largest rotating tramcar at The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to experience a 10 minute breath-taking journey up the sheer cliffs of Chino Canyon. Pack a picnic and hike the majestic Indian Canyons or join a ranger guided tour to learn about the Agua Caliente Cahuilla (pronounced Kaw-we-ah) Indians who settled in the Palm, Murray, Andreas, Tahquitz and Chino Canyons. Once you arrive to the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Palm Springs and the entire Coachella Valley.

How about some golf? Palm Springs has over 120 golf courses. Enjoy a morning round of golf at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort or Indian Canyons Golf Resort, both courses have unparalleled desert beauty and challenging terrain for all levels.

Palm Springs is also known as Hollywood’s favourite playground so while playing golf, enjoying the architecture or hitting the shops – keep your eyes open, you never know who you might spot!

Buzz – An easy way to cruise the Palm Springs area. The city’s free trolley service operates Thursday-Sunday and makes it easy to get around downtown and uptown Palm Springs with over 30 stops.

Mid-Century Modern Architecture – Palm Springs has one of the largest concentrations of mid-century modern architecture in the country.

Learn about the masters of modern architecture and take a tour of the desert’s most notable architecture in downtown Palm Springs.

Palm Springs Air Museum – The Palm Springs Air Museum houses one of the nation’s largest collection of World War II aircraft. The Buddy Rodgers Theatre shows daily documentaries about aviation in the military with an emphasis on World War II. Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon – These canyons have more than 160 kilometres of trails along streams, ancient palm groves and stunning canyons with lovely views and outdoor adventure.

VillageFest – A free downtown festival held every Thursday evening.

Browse more than 180 vendors offering beautiful art, handcrafted items and tasty food.

Hollywood in Palm Springs – Discover the secluded retreats and exclusive estates of Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe or Elvis Presley by taking a celebrity tour or follow Palm Springs’ own ‘Walk of Stars’ through downtown Palm Springs. Did you know Sonny Bono was once mayor here?

Coachella – This annual music and arts festival is held every April over two weekends and attracts some of the biggest names in music.

Joshua Tree National Park – It’s about an hours drive to the rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park.

Named for the region’s twisted, bristled Joshua trees, the park straddles the cactus-dotted Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

The Saguaro Palm Springs Palm Mountain Resort and Spa Hyatt Regency Indian Wells

© Visit California/Michael Lanza

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© David Lee

Portland

© dronescape

A perfect day in Portland

Portland is a great walking city with tons of public transport, an

atmosphere that celebrates the arts, a culture of great food, artisan coffee, craft beer, wine and neighbourhoods full of shops with handmade clothes and crafts.

And as fantastic as Portland is to spend time in, it’s one of the easiest cities to spend time outside. The mountains, waterfalls, wine country and other assorted outdoor goodies Oregon is famous for are all a short drive away.

The Portland Saturday Market (Mar-Dec, Sat-Sun) is alongside the river and is full of local artisans, it is a perfect starting point for a leisurely walk of the city. While you’re in the downtown area, the Portland Art Museum has a large collection of northwest art from the 19th century to the present day.

The Pearl District is a trendy part of town which was formerly an industrial area, and is now home to boutiques, galleries, restaurants and bars. Many of which are housed in refurbished warehouses. It’s also home to Portland’s oldest brewery – with over 70 in the city, this of course means plenty of beer tastings are available at some fantastic breweries.

Next, you may want to savour the sights and scents of the oldest public rose test gardens in the USA. There are more than 8000 roses, with the peak of the rose season late spring, but the gardens are lovely year round and have spectacular views over the city.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Hotel Rose Jupiter Hotel The Benson Hotel

Our favourite things to see and do Breweries – Portland is home to more than 70 breweries and has been a hub for the USA craft beer scene since the 1980s. They say it’s the fresh ingredients like Willamette Valley hops, barley and Bull Run water that makes their beer so good. There are plenty of brewpubs, beer themed events and brewery tours – you’re bound to find a brew you love.

Bikes & Segways – There’s around 400 kilometres of bike lanes and many of them run through downtown and past popular attractions, shops and restaurants. You can hire bikes and Segways or do a guided tour that will take you around the bridges, breweries, food carts and parks of Portland as well as further afield to explore the wine country and Columbia River Gorge.

Food Trucks – Portland’s food truck scene is massive with over 600 in the city. They are generally grouped together in ‘pods’ around the city.

Alder Street, Tidbit and Mississippi are a couple of great pods to visit.

There are also food cart tours if you fancy a few hours sampling some delicious treats.

Powell’s City of Books – This is the world’s largest independent bookstore that takes up a whole city block. It has new releases and second hand books sharing the shelves and is a must for book worms.

Nob Hill – This is a fun area with some of the city’s trendiest shops and eateries. Don’t forget there is no sales tax in Oregon, so shopping is definitely worth considering.

Columbia River Gorge – Starting around 50 kilometres from Portland this scenic area has amazing views, more than 90 waterfalls and heaps of hiking trails.

Wine Country – Less than an hour’s drive is the gorgeous Willamette Valley, home to more than 250 wineries, quaint towns, rolling farmland and delicious pinot noir.

Voodoo Doughnut – There are lots of crazy (and delicious) doughnuts – like bacon maple walnut, Captain My Captain, Memphis Mafia and Apple Fritter. But be prepared to wait, there is often a queue just to get in the door.

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Oregon Oregon has amazing natural wonders and some incredibly diverse scenery, along with a great food, wine and beer scene and really friendly locals. It is the perfect state for a selfdrive holiday and you are sure to have many ‘wow’ moments.

© dronescape

6 days/5 nights Suggested Self-Drive

Cannon Beach

Day 1: Portland – Cannon Beach – Newport (300km) The Oregon coast is one of the region’s most visited attractions. With 580 kilometres of beautiful coastline, the scenery is dramatic with pristine sand beaches in some areas and rugged cliffs in others.

Newport Florence

Day 2: Newport – Florence – Eugene – Grants Pass (400km) Carry on to Florence with its historic old town and 65 square kilometres of sand dunes. Passing through the mystical Siuslaw National Forest will take you to Eugene.

Grants Pass

Day 6: Hood River – Mt Hood – Columbia River Gorge & Waterfalls – Portland (254km) Mt Hood is as popular in the winter as it is in the summer, you can ski year round here. Along the Columbia River Gorge there is a huge concentration of around 90 stunning waterfalls.

Painted Hills Smith Rock

Crater Lake

Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach – Stop for some great photos of this rock rising 71 metres out from the sand.

Newport – The Bayfront area is home to Oregon’s biggest fishing fleet and there are some great places to get crab cakes.

CALIFORNIA

Springfield – Said to be the inspiration for Springfield in The Simpsons its Simpsons’ mural is a great photo op.

Covered Bridges – Cottage Grove, by Eugene, has a few within close proximity. Built in the mid 1800s they’re very scenic and worth a look.

Jacksonville – A really cute town where the main street is full of historic buildings dating back to the 1850s when it was a thriving gold mining town.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $74 per day

Columbia Gorge Discovery Centre and Museum – This is a great place to get a great overview and history of the area.

Our favourite places to stay: • Elizabeth Street Inn, Newport • Weasku Inn, Grants Pass • Shilo Suites, Bend • Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River

Multnomah Falls – At 189 metres these falls are a photographer’s delight, with a lodge at the bottom and a bridge across the lower cascade. If you’re there in the autumn the foliage colours are beautiful.

Mt Hood Area – In the spring there’s plenty of lavender, wildflowers and blossoms, it is very pretty.

© Christain Heeb

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Eugene Bend

Highlights worth seeing along the way

Eureka

Day 5: Bend – Columbia River Gorge – Hood River via the Historic Highway (248km) Take the Historic Columbia River Highway, which has some lovely scenic viewpoints, to Hood River, a cute town by the river.

Mt Hood

Hood River Columbia Gorge Discovery Centre

OREGON

Day 3: Grants Pass – Crater Lake – Bend (333km) A highlight of your trip will be the majestic Crater Lake. Its pristine water is surrounded by cliffs that reflect in the lake, it is absolutely beautiful.

Next it is Bend, a mecca for outdoor adventures and only 35 minutes from the Mt Batchelor ski resort.

Day 4: Bend – Smith Rock – Painted Hills – Bend (290km) Today you’ll see two stunning sights – Smith Rock with its sheer cliffs and deep river canyons and The Painted Hills whose rolling hills with stripes of yellows, golds, browns and reds are amazing.

Portland

© Satashi Eto

The price guide shown is per car hire based on fully inclusive, 5-7 day hire rate. Price does not include Earlybird or other offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

Seattle

© Alabastro Photography

Our favourite things to see and do

A perfect day in Seattle

Orcas swimming next to a ferry, salmon swimming upstream in the

middle of town, and cheese making at Pike Place Market are just some of the experiences you may not expect to find on a visit to Seattle.

Why not join a walking tour of the hottest places to eat in Seattle or a chef-led tour where you cook your own meal. Food in the Pacific Northwest is mouth-watering; from tasty crab, salmon and other seafood pulled straight from local waters and nearby shores to fresh meat and vegetables.

At Pike Place Market there are many fantastic eateries so when you’re not sure what kind of food you’re in the mood to eat, just head to Pike Place Market and sample a little of everything or hop on one of several market tours that focus on food, history, or a little of both. For something a bit different make sure you’re around when the famous fishthrowing happens – something you need to see to believe.

Now it’s time to hit the pavement as Seattle is a great walking city.

Wander the bustling waterfront, a unique area of the city with dozens of paths and public spaces. Or just sit and simply enjoy a little bit of people watching as you absorb the local scene.

End your day with some awe-inspiring views and fine dining up the iconic Space Needle. At a height of 185 metres, the Space Needle boasts fabulous 360 degree views that include Mt. Rainier, Puget Sound, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, the beautiful city of Seattle and beyond.

Space Needle – The Space Needle is certainly Seattle’s most iconic structure and the views are fantastic.

Chihuly Garden and Glass – Located just beneath the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass traces the art and career of world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.

The Museum of Flight – More than 150 historic artefacts are on display here, including the legendary SR-71 Blackbird, an original Concorde jetliner and the actual 707 jet used as Air Force One during the ‘50s, ‘60s and early ‘70s. Many of the exhibits are hands-on and perfect for kids.

Pike Place Market – This is Seattle’s most iconic attraction — and it’s filled with tasty treats. There are aisles of fruits and vegetables, tables overflowing with fresh floral bouquets, and booth after booth selling all manner of locally made jewellery, clothing and gifts.

Smith Tower – Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi, the Smith Tower has offered Seattle’s best views to the public for over 100 years.

Elevator operators whisk visitors in an old-fashioned copper and brass elevator car to the 35th floor where you’ll step into the past as you enter the historic observatory.

Seattle Aquarium – Featuring a stunning viewing window that looks into a 454,000 litre aquarium filled with salmon, colourful rockfish, vibrant sea anemones, and other native Washington marine life.

Seattle Underground Tour – Seattle was rebuilt on top of itself after the Great Fire of 1889. This has left underground footpaths and storefronts which are absolutely fascinating.

Water Taxi – Get a water taxi to West Seattle, locals and tourists will agree that the water taxi has some of the best views of the Seattle skyline.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Boeing Factory – Go behind the hangar doors to discover Boeing’s inner workings on a tour of the Boeing Factory. Starting at Future of Flight where you’ll be able to discover 8500 square kilometres of interactive aviation exhibits. View the flight line and aeroplanes in various stages of assembly.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – A museum dedicated to the history and exploration of both popular music and science fiction.

The Maxwell Hotel Executive Hotel Pacific Mayflower Park Hotel Seattle

© Howard Frisk

© Alabastro Photography

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Las Vegas It’s one of the most famous cities in the world, and certainly one of the most provocative. You probably think you know what it’s all about, but spend a little time getting to know this fun city and you’ll discover its many surprises. To begin with, as fabulous as the casinos are, you don’t actually need to throw your money into a slot machine to have a good time. Check out one of the amazing live shows, from Cirque du Soleil to famous pop stars, or go window shopping (and celebrity spotting) in the many luxury brand boutiques. Just 50 kilometres out of town you’ll find the Hoover Dam, a massive piece of engineering that seeks to control the Colorado River. Be sure to add on a trip to the Grand Canyon to see what this mighty river is capable of.

Our favourite things to see and do Shopping – With outlet malls at either end of the Strip, designer stores aplenty and everything in between, there’s something for any shopping budget.

Fremont Street – Dating back to 1905, this is the home of old casinos like the Golden Nugget. Try zip lining across Fremont Street with the neon lights dazzling around you.

See a show – From the huge selection of Cirque du Soleil shows to comedians, musicians and famous acts in residence there is something for everyone.

High Roller – This 168 metre observation wheel dominates the landscape and gives you amazing views over Las Vegas.

Neon Museum – Explore the history of Vegas through these unique neon signs.

Take a tour of the Neon Boneyard where more than 150 classic neon signs rest.

The Park Vegas – Check out this cool outdoor dining and entertainment district which is also home to the Park Theatre and T-Mobile Arena where you can catch a concert or a sports game.

Play the tables – Of course you couldn’t really go to Vegas without trying your luck at any of the hundreds of casinos.

Fun for free – Watch the beautiful fountain show outside the Bellagio, watch the Volcano erupt outside the Mirage and see the light and laser show downtown at the Fremont Street Experience.

Travel round the world in one night – Visit Paris, Venice, New York, ancient Egypt and ancient Rome all in the same day at some incredible hotels.

Great Outdoors – Explore the stunning national parks and recreation areas just outside of Las Vegas including Red Rock Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Lake Mead.

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Las Vegas Accommodation

Circus Circus Riviera

Las Vegas Hilton

“ Th eS trip ”

Las Vegas Convention Centre

E Desert Inn Rd

gas

s Ve

Fashion Show Mall

Blvd

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Luxor Hotel and Casino

Wynn Las Vegas

The Wynn Golf Club

S La

Enter the imposing façade of an Egyptian sphinx, into the pyramid with its elevators rising on a 39° angle and you are in another world. One level above the casino is the world’s largest Atrium for great shopping and dining. See shows such as Blue Man Group and CRISS ANGEL® MINDFREAK LIVE!

Treasure Island

The Mirage

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Sands Expo & Convention Centre

2

Caesars Palace

Rio Suites

High Roller

4 3

S Las Vegas Blvd “The Strip”

7

Koval Ln

E Flamingo Rd 9

Bally’s

6

E Harmon Ave

Hard Rock Hotel

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Monte Carlo

Valley Tower Room

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Harrah’s Las Vegas

NY NY

W Tropicana Ave

Dean Martin Dr

This resort is right at the heart of the fabulous Las Vegas Strip and you won’t be short of things to do without even stepping foot out of the resort. There is a huge on-site casino, live shows, multiple bars and even a nightclub under a big top. If you’re hungry, there’s live country music and down-home Southern favourites at Toby Keith’s along with a steak house, food court, burger joint, buffet restaurant, oyster bar and dessert restaurant.

MGM Grand

E Tropicana Ave 5

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Mandalay Bay

Deluxe High Roller View Room

FAB Room

Flamingo Las Vegas In a central location, this is a true oasis with everything you could want and more. Take a stroll through the Tropical Wildlife Habitat, nestled in the hotel’s lush 15 acre grounds where there are exotic birds, fish and turtles and of course a huge flock of flamingos. There’s also the great family friendly Beach Club Pool or the adult only Go Pool with a lively pool party vibe. When the sun goes down there are a couple of bars, a nightclub and the on-site Margaritaville Casino.

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McCarran Int’l Airport

The LINQ Hotel & Casino

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Located right in the centre of the Las Vegas Strip, this is the social hub for trend-setters and partiers alike. Spend your days lounging around the adult only chic pool deck before experiencing one of the three bars at the hotel. Step outside and you’re in the heart of the LINQ Promenade with numerous eating and drinking opportunities as well as the LINQ High Roller observation wheel from where you can see across the whole of Las Vegas.

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Las Vegas Accommodation

Studio Room

Tropicana Las Vegas A Doubletree by Hilton

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Located on the south of the Las Vegas Strip, this hotel features a unique South Beach vibe and has plenty to keep you entertained with a casino, restaurants including the new Robert Irvine’s Public House, a Mandara Spa and even a comedy club. During the day, chill out on a lounger by the great pool surrounded by gardens or check out the scene at the seasonal poolside Sky Beach Club.

The Signature at MGM Grand

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With the best of Las Vegas at your doorstep, enjoy the convenience of having a kitchenette and space to relax in your all suite, nongaming hotel. By day relax under a poolside cabana at one of the three pools. When the evening nears head down to The Lounge for your favourite cocktail before stepping next door for some high energy nightlife and gaming at the MGM Grand Hotel.

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Paris Las Vegas

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The Eiffel Tower and crystal chandeliers set the mood of romance. At dusk, ride the elevator up the Eiffel Tower to the top-floor observation deck for a breath-taking view of Las Vegas, or visit the French restaurant on the 11th floor boasting views of the glittering Strip.

Take in a show, enjoy the cabaret, unwind at the Mandara Spa, or just relax beside the Eiffel Tower at the two acre rooftop pool.

Bellagio

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This is one of the ultimate Las Vegas hotel experiences. Inspired by the Lake Como town of Bellagio in Italy, it is famed for its elegance and opulence. Why not treat yourself to a room with a view of the famous dancing Fountains of Bellagio? Wander through the stunning conservatory and botanical gardens or take in an art exhibit at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Arts. Spend the day relaxing by one of the five swimming pools before heading to see a show like the stunning ‘O’ by Cirque du Soleil.

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The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Exciting, hip and modern with one of a kind private terrace rooms where you can sit and look out over the Strip. Get lost in the 30,000 square kilometre casino, enjoy the boutique shopping and try the amazing selection of trendy restaurants within the hotel complex.

With so much action a retreat to an oasis of pampering at the spa needs to be on your ‘must-do’ list.

The Venetian

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Sit and watch the gondolas go by or even experience a romantic ride on one. Add to this the winding canals, the marble floors and hand painted frescoes and you are surrounded by the grandeur and romance of Venice. Stroll along the cobblestone walkways, shop in boutiques amongst beautiful buildings, or a walk in St Marks Square without the pigeons is an experience in itself. Don’t forget to stop for a delicious Italian espresso.

Las Vegas Sightseeing

© Papillon

Las Vegas Shows It’s compulsory to see at least one show when going to Vegas. Whether you are interested in headline acts, or musicians, comedians, magicians or showgirls – there truly is something for everyone.

The selection and calibre of shows is amazing!

Grand Canyon Drive, Fly and Float Tour By land, by air, by river! This tour soars you high above the Grand Canyon in a helicopter, sails across the waters of the Colorado River by boat and skirts the magnificent beauty of the Grand Canyon West Rim in a signature Pink Jeep.

Grand Voyager with Helicopter Flight and Boat A tour of the Grand Canyon isn’t complete until you see it from the air, ground and water. Enjoy an airplane flight out to the West Rim where you’ll hop on a helicopter for your trip to the bottom of the canyon and take a cruise along the Colorado River. Ask about adding on the Skywalk.

Bryce Canyon & Zion National Park Tour

Grand Canyon West Rim Classic Tour

Grand Celebration

Board your tour trekker Pink Jeep vehicle and prepare yourself for the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. The Canyon’s magnificent vastness awaits you. Observe the Colorado River running through this mile-deep chasm.

Descend, land and walk the canyon floor. Travel in a state of the art helicopter and touch down by the banks of the Colorado River where you’ll enjoy a picnic. Ask about adding on the Skywalk or tour over the Strip on your return to Las Vegas.

Enjoy an awesome one day guided tour of Zion © Matt Morgan and Bryce Canyon National Parks, two of Utah’s most stunning landscapes. Gaze at the wonders from the Canyon Overlook in Zion and the magical section of Bryce Canyon known as Sunset Point.

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Utah Discover the urban lifestyle of Salt Lake City, the perfect mountain town of Park City and the surreal scenery of the Mighty 5® national parks. A trip to the Mighty 5® means watching the sunrise over towering natural monuments, hiking, biking, exploring and stargazing. It’s hard to imagine so much inspiring beauty and outdoor adventure in one place until you see it for yourself.

© Brand USA

Mesa Arch

Salt Lake City

Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park

Utah’s capital, Salt Lake City, provides everything you’d expect to find in a thriving city but also the convenience and affordability of a place that hasn’t yet been discovered by the masses.

Open year round, the park is busiest from March to October, it’s no surprise that Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America.

Imagine wave after wave of deep canyons, towering mesas, pinnacles, cliffs and spires.

This is Canyonlands National Park, formed by the currents of Utah’s Green and Colorado Rivers. Canyonlands is home to many different types of travel experiences, from sublime solitude in the more remote stretches of the park to moderate hikes through The Needles district.

A compact downtown makes for easy walking to the many sights in the city. Visit the historic and spiritual heart of Utah, Temple Square, which is home to the renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir who have frequent performances and dress rehearsals that are open to the public. Satisfy your shopping fix with a stroll through City Creek Centre or take in the view of the city from the steps of the State Capitol.

A two hour drive will have you at Antelope Island where you can hike or bike this mountainous island, or see bison roaming free. In the winter months head into the Wasatch Mountains, just 30 minutes from downtown. Here you’ll find the worldrenowned ski areas of Alta, Snowbird, Brighton and Solitude.

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Delicate Arch

Visit Arches to discover a landscape of contrasting colours, land forms and textures unlike any other in the world. The park has over 2000 natural stone arches, in addition to hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive fins and giant balanced rocks.

From the scenic roads that slice through the park to the many trails that wind among the 92 metre high towers, Arches can be explored by all. Hikers of all abilities will see some of the most spectacular namesake arches such as Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock.

At sunset the red rock becomes saturated with the radiance of the sun and is a photographers’ dream. At sunrise, rays of light break over dramatic horizons.

Island in the Sky is the easiest area of Canyonlands to visit in a short period of time, offering many stops with spectacular views along the paved scenic drive and familyfriendly hikes. Here is where you’ll also find one of the West’s most photographed landforms – Mesa Arch. The Needles form the southeast corner of Canyonlands and offers longer hiking trails for day and overnight hiking. The Maze is the least accessible district of Canyonlands and is very remote but offers spectacular hiking opportunities for those experienced trampers.

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

• •

•

•

• •

•

• •

Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Downtown Hilton Garden Inn Salt Lake City Downtown

Best Western Plus Greenwell Inn, Moab La Quinta Inn & Suites, Moab Red Cliffs Lodge, Moab

Best Western Plus Greenwell Inn, Moab La Quinta Inn & Suites, Moab Red Cliffs Lodge, Moab

The Windows, Arches National Park

Chimney Rock

Thor’s Hammer

Angels Landing

Capitol Reef National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Zion National Park

Considering Utah’s many impressive national parks and monuments, it’s difficult to rival Capitol Reef National Park’s sense of expansiveness; of sweeping vistas, of a seemingly endless landscape and of limitless sky and desert rock. Here you get a feel for what the earth might have been like millions of years ago, when nothing existed but earth and sky.

There is no place like Bryce Canyon.

Descriptions fail and photographs do not do it justice. Bring your sense of wonder and imagination to explore this national park.

Utah’s first and most visited national park, Zion translates to ‘The Promised Land,’ and that means some of the most spectacular hiking of your lifetime and landscapes you will never forget.

In the Fruita area, there are many day hiking trails. These trails range from easy strolls to strenuous hikes involving steep climbs over uneven terrain near cliff edges. Hikes may take you deep into a narrow gorge, to the top of high cliffs for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area or under a natural stone arch. Some of the more popular hikes are to Hickman Bridge and Cohab Canyon.

Why not visit the petroglyph panel, the historic school house or the Gifford House Store and Museum to enjoy fresh baked pie.

Getting away from the road and hitting the trails is a great way to take in the unbeatable scenery of Bryce Canyon National Park. The Mossy Cave Trail and Bristlecone Loop Trail are great short hikes and the Rim Trail section between Sunset and Sunrise Points is paved and gives amazing views of the amphitheatre and hoodoos from above. Don’t miss a stop at Inspiration Point, from here the view stretches seemingly forever, as light catches the spires, hoodoos and ever-eroding canyon walls.

The most brilliant colours of the park come alive with the rising and setting of the sun which is also a great time to see some of the dozens of species of animals and birds that call the park home, such as the mule deer.

There are many hiking options within the park. From easy, short walks to longer multi-day hikes and hikes for those seeking adventure. The Narrows is the most popular and requires you to get your feet wet. You can walk for an hour to get a taste, or for those looking for something more adventurous, you can hike further along the Virgin River taking two days.

Angels Landing is one of the world’s most renowned hikes, and is an unforgettable short adventure hike worthy of all bucket lists. Drive to Observation Point and take the short walk for views of nearly every major attraction in the canyon. Several options are available at the Emerald Pools, ranging from short and easy to strenuous.

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

• The Noor Hotel, Torrey • Broken Spur Inn, Torrey • Capitol Reef Resort, Torrey

• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, Bryce Canyon • Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon

• La Quinta Inn & Suites, Springdale • Majestic View Lodge, Springdale • La Quinta Inn & Suites, St George

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Experience

East Coast

The Eastern side of the USA is a blended symphony of culture. From the highest concentration of states in the upper North East, to the long and lazy states further South, the East has something for everyone. Let’s start up the top with the likes of New York City, Washington, D.C., Boston and Philadelphia. These are the cities we’ve heard so much about and seen so many times in the movies we love. Boston with its amazing history, Washington, D.C. with its monuments and culture and the big city buzz of ‘The Big Apple’. You can see some of the most famous spots in the world here, and you quickly realise that there’s nothing quite like actually being there yourself.

The great lakes that line the border with Canada will take your breath away no matter what time of the year you visit, and the countryside that surrounds them is absolutely worth exploring. The cities that line these lakes are also high points of interest, there’s the buzzing blues and jazz hub of Chicago and Detroit; the home of Motown just to name two.

Once you head down south you’re in for a change of scenery. Launch yourself into relaxation mode on the beaches of Florida – with 1250 kilometres of coastline you’re sure to find a spot that takes your fancy, or get into the huge Everglades National Park, a massive network of forests and prairies and wetlands.

This is only the surface of the awesome nature of the East Coast of the USA. It’s all there, and it’s all begging to be explored.

© Kyle Klein

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Pierre

New York New York City is an amazing melting pot that you’ll fall in love with again and again.

Every time you go back, you find yourself wanting more and you discover new experiences. After you feel the emotion of the 9/11 Memorial, hit the unbelievable shopping districts of Central Manhattan. Finishing the day at a restaurant in Little Italy with a glass of red wine has never felt so rewarding. Amongst the concrete giants that make up New York City’s amazing skyline are the street vendors; hot dogs, bagels, pizza or roasting chestnuts in the winter are all quintessentially New York. The list of things to do never ends. You absolutely have to go, just to see and believe the vibe of this extreme metropolis.

Our favourite things to see and do Highline – Take a walk through the Highline, a former railway line on the west side of Manhattan that has been converted into a dynamic park.

Central Park – Explore the 843 acres by foot, bike, horsedrawn carriage or tuk tuk.

Times Square – The vibrant theatre district with neon lights and big billboards. Visit the discount ticket booths for show tickets, if you haven’t booked in advance.

Museums – There are 150 museums in Manhattan, including the famous American Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Brooklyn Bridge – Walk or bike over the spectacular bridge for breath-taking views of NYC.

Staten Island Ferry – This free ferry is not only a convenient way to get from Manhattan to Staten Island, but it’s also one of the best (and most affordable) ways of seeing the Statue of Liberty.

Sport – Get along to a game with passionate supporters.

The Knicks, Nets, Rangers, Jets, Giants, Yankees and Mets are favourite home teams.

NFL Experience – Feel the rush of the NFL at this one-of-akind interactive experience that brings you closer to the game than ever before. Suit up and test your skills to see if you have what it takes to make it to the biggest game of all: the Super Bowl.

CANADA

Lake Superior

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VERMONT Portland MINNESOTA Lake Huron NEW Minneapolis Lake HAMPSHIRE Lake NEW WISCONSIN Michigan Boston Ontario YORK MASSACHUSETTES MICHIGAN Buffalo RHODE ISLAND Milwaukee Lake CONNECTICUT Detroit Erie IOWA PENNSYLVANIA NEW New York Chicago JERSEY Cleveland Pittsburgh Des Moines INDIANA OHIO Philadelphia Baltimore ILLINOIS

Columbus Indianapolis Cincinnati WEST

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York you need to see it from above. Head up the iconic Empire State Building for views across lower Manhattan; Top of the Rock for views of Central Park and the Empire State Building or One World Observatory for views of Manhattan and across to Brooklyn.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

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Kansas City St Louis

Views from the top – To get a real perspective of New

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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA NORTH ARKANSAS Little Rock

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LOUISIANA Baton Rouge

CAROLINA

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Atlanta

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SOUTH CAROLINA Savannah

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Jacksonville New Orleans Orlando Tampa

FLORIDA

GULF OF MEXICO

Fort Lauderdale Miami

Florida Keys

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New York Accommodation E 96th

Columbus Ave

Central Park West

Amsterdam Ave

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Guggenheim Museum E 86th

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UPPER EAST SIDE

Metropolitan Museum of Art

American Museum of Natural History

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Second Ave

Lincoln Centre

Third Ave

Fifth Ave Madison Ave Park Ave

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Central Park

JFK & La Guardia Airports

Columbus Circle

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Central Park South

Carnegie Hall

W 57th

MIDTOWN WEST 7 W 50th

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GARMENT DISTRICT

Pier 78, 38th & 12th

For location and Art Deco flavour look no further. The buzz of Times Square and famous icons, Rockefeller Centre and Radio City Music Hall are just a short walk away. It’s no drama getting to your favourite show as you are in the theatre district of midtown Manhattan. And for dining, you are only one block away from the famous Restaurant Row on West 46th Street.

E 50th

Grand Central Station

SQUARE

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Roosevelt Island

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Radio City St Patrick’s Music Hall Cathedral Rockefeller Centre

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One World Trade Centre

Enjoy great service and a warm atmosphere at the Skyline Hotel. Take time to indulge in the world-famous restaurants that surround this hotel, in the desired location of Clinton/Hell’s Kitchen district. Right in the thick of it, you are also only a few blocks away from the theatre district and Times Square.

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Hotel Beacon You’re close enough to experience the buzz and excitement of Manhattan, yet far enough removed to feel like a local. You’ll be right at home with a grocery store right opposite the hotel and your room equipped with kitchenette and microwave, so having a picnic with the locals in Central Park, just two blocks away, is a must during the summer. If it’s winter, the picnic will be out, but there is always the ice skating rink to experience.

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The New Yorker a Wyndham Hotel Theatres, shopping and iconic sights all come to mind when you think of New York. Staying in midtown Manhattan is another. From the New Yorker you are a few minutes walk or short subway ride away from the theatre district, the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden and bustling Times Square. Don’t miss the Tik Tok Diner by the hotel, open 24 hours a day serving the true all day breakfast.

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New York Accommodation

Stewart Hotel

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A great midtown location that has you at the crossroads of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods. You’ve heard of Macy’s Department Store, Madison Square Garden and the Empire State Building, well there they are right on your doorstep and Penn Station is across the road, so getting around New York is a breeze. Whether you’re hitting the shops, going to a show or just exploring this vibrant city, you’re perfectly situated to do it all.

Empire Hotel

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Nestled in a prime location, sitting on a quiet corner along West 63rd Street between the Lincoln Centre and Central Park, this boutique hotel is at the gateway to the very local Upper West Side. Take in the panoramic views of the city skyline from the hotel’s rooftop sun deck area and enjoy a cocktail from the Rooftop or Lobby Bars. When you’re ready for dinner enjoy traditional East Coast seafood such as crab cakes or oysters at Ed’s Chowder House.

Row NYC

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Situated in the heart of Broadway’s buzzing Theatre District and just a short walk from Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue shopping and Times Square - who could ask for anything more? Enjoy dining at District M – café by day and pizza bar and cocktail lounge at night. Or try the crave-worthy creations from one of the seven vendors at City Kitchen.

The Westin New York Grand Central

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You are on East 42nd Street – just the address alone conjures up images of the famous musical. Step in through the front door and you will notice the attention to detail, from the level of service to the comfortable guest rooms. The fashionable East Side has you close to Fifth Avenue shopping, dining and the iconic Grand Central Station.

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Novotel New York Times Square With sleek styling, dramatic ambiance, and captivating views throughout the hotel, the Novotel New York Times Square is ready and waiting for you. Unique to hotels in the Times Square area is the Supernova Bar and Restaurant where you can enjoy a cocktail or two watching the sights and sounds of New York City below.

Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan

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You literally won’t believe your eyes with this amazing spot right in the middle of Broadway and Times Square. The shopping is great, especially in the little boutiques around West 42nd Street. After you’ve done that you’ve got to get that famous photo standing on the traffic island in the middle of Times Square, and then hit a show.

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New York Sightseeing

Central Park by Bike Tour Explore the sites of world-famous Central Park. From Bethesda Fountain to Strawberry Fields and the Jackie Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, you’ll see it all.

You’ll also visit lesser-known sights like Cleopatra’s Needle and the Shakespeare Garden. A fun day out for all.

Local Flavours of Brooklyn Walking Tour Get a taste of the local food and culture of Brooklyn as you visit some of its many eateries and small food shops. During your © Christopher Postlewaite walk you’ll have the chance to sample everything from artisanal cooking spots to longstanding Middle Eastern markets so make sure you come hungry.

New York Shows One of the must-do’s when visiting New York is a Broadway show. Long running shows such as The Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King continue to please audiences. Smash hit musicals such as Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Wicked and Chicago are even more special on the Broadway stage. Don’t miss out, pre-book before you leave.

9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero Walking Tour

All Around Town Double Decker Bus Tour Board a double decker bus and discover the best sights in Manhattan. Hop on and off at up to 50 stops, including the Empire State Building, Greenwich Village, Chinatown, Times Square and Metropolitan Museum of Art. Upgrade to include a Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry ticket to get up close to this famous icon.

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Manhattan Experience Enjoy a full day guided tour of the Big Apple.

See the sights of lower and upper Manhattan, from Harlem all the way through to Battery Park. Enjoy lunch in Little Italy and a 90 minute harbour cruise. Finish your day at the Top of the Rock Observation deck.

Gain a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the attacks on the World Trade Center ©Julienne Schaer and the acts of heroism that rallied a nation on this walking tour of Ground Zero. There is also the option to add on the 9/11 Museum.

© Sean Pavone

Niagara Falls by Air This a great option for those who don’t have much time up their sleeves. After flying to upstate New York you’ll be transferred to Niagara Falls, just minutes away. Here you’ll enjoy a half day guided tour of Niagara Falls from both the American and Canadian sides.

New York CityPASS Visit six attractions for one low price – Empire State Building Experience, American Museum of Natural History, Metropolitan Museum of Art and a choice of Guggenheim Museum OR Top of the Rock Observation Deck, a choice between the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island OR a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise and a choice between 9/11 Memorial Museum OR Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Washington by Bus The no-hassle way to see Washington, D.C. in a day. Pass through New Jersey and Maryland before arriving at the nation’s capital. See the White House before continuing to the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum. Late afternoon enjoy a panoramic city tour before departing for New York. Ask about doing this tour by train.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour Woodbury Common Premium Outlet Shopping Shop till you drop at over 220 designer stores. About an hours drive from Manhattan you’ll find stores such as Burberry, Coach, Toys ‘R’ Us and many more.

And with your complimentary VIP Savings coupon book, you’ll save even more!

This guided tour visits these two iconic sites.

Tour Lady Liberty’s turf before heading inside for another perspective from the observation decks.

Then ferry to Ellis Island and learn about the millions of people who arrived here between 1892 and 1954.

Philadelphia and Amish Country Head to Philadelphia where you’ll visit the Liberty Bell, Constitution Square and Independence Hall, some of the symbols of freedom in America. Next stop is Lancaster County home of the Amish people. You’ll tour an Amish farmhouse and learn how they live without modern technology, electricity or running water.

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Boston

© Brand USA

Our favourite things to see and do

A perfect day in Boston

Freedom Trail – With so many historically significant buildings and locations in the downtown area, this trail will take you into the backbone of the American Revolution story. Visit sites such as Boston Common, Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground and Old North Church.

Pack your walking shoes, because this compact city, home of the American Revolution, is perfect to explore on foot.

Delve into the USA’s history on The Freedom Trail and visit landmarks of the Revolutionary era, including the site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall and Paul Revere’s house. Step off the trail and visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum to learn about the most important event leading up to the Revolutionary War. Boston is full of distinctive architectural styles of the Colonial era, Federalist era and Victorian brownstones. You can’t miss a visit to Beacon Hill where you can see the most photographed street in America – Acorn Street. Take a tour of the nation’s oldest professional ballpark, Fenway Park or visit the oldest college in America, Harvard University.

All this walking must be working up an appetite and Boston is a worldclass culinary destination. Boston and seafood are like peas in a pod, and here you will find all the staples – like delicious lobster rolls, clam chowder and fried clams. Finish off with a sweet treat of Boston Cream Pie. A gorgeous harbour walk takes you along the shoreline of Boston Harbour. Head out on the water to enjoy great views of the city or take one of the many activities like cruising along the Charles River, or seasonal whale watching out from the harbour. To see the best sites from both land and water and learn about Boston’s history, take a Boston Duck Tour. So much fun in such a short time.

With so much history, culture and amazing food you’ve only just begun to get a taste of all this city has to offer.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

The Midtown Hotel The Boston Park Plaza Hotel The Godfrey Hotel

© GBCVB

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Boston Common and the Public Garden – The oldest park in the country, established in 1634, Boston Common is a local landmark. The Public Garden was founded in 1837 as a botanical garden and the swan boats of the garden have become an icon of the city since they started operating in 1877.

Museums – Spend time at one of the many museums in the city such as the Isabella Stewart Gardner, Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Science.

Fall Foliage – One of the most beautiful times to visit Boston is during the fall when the spectacular colours come out in the city.

New England Seacoast – Admire the unique scenery of New England’s spectacular coast. Stop for views of the famous ‘Nubble Light’ lighthouse in York and visit Kennebunkport Village on Maine’s coast.

Cape Cod – Head out of the city for the day and down to Cape Cod – a world of sand dunes and beaches. Spend time exploring the area’s quaint seaside villages.

Salem – History of the 1692 witch trials is in abundance in Salem. A visit to The Witch House, the only structure in Salem with direct ties to the Salem Witch Trials is a must.

Plymouth – Explore another world in another time. Take a journey south to historic Plimoth Plantation, a living re-creation of the small farming and maritime community built by the Pilgrims along the shore of Plymouth Harbour.

Sports – Stop by for a tour of Fenway Park, home to the Red Sox. Bostonians love sports, and The Sports Museum of New England has artefacts and exhibits relating to all types of sports from football to figure skating.

© Brand USA

New England From charming harbour towns famous for the birth of American liberty and infamous for witch trials, to beloved New England holiday islands and a fjord on the Atlantic, this trip explores some of the best of America’s early history.

© Maine Office of Tourism

VERMONT

12 days/11 nights Suggested Self-Drive

MAINE

Stowe

Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park White Mountains

Days 1-2: Boston Day 3: Boston – Salem – Portsmouth – Kennebunkport (150km) Along the route north lies almost four centuries of history, as well as some of the coast’s finest beaches. First stop is Salem, the location of the infamous witch trials.

Day 4: Kennebunkport – Wiscasset – Bar Harbor (340km) Travel along the Maine Coast to Bar Harbor, you’ll see quaint fishing villages along the way.

Day 5: Bar Harbor – Acadia National Park – Bar Harbor (564km) A full day to explore this lovely national park.

Day 6: Bar Harbor – White Mountains (370km) Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the White Mountains.

Green Mountains

Kennebunkport

NEW HAMPSHIRE

MASSACHUSETTS The Berkshires

CONNECTICUT

Portsmouth

Atlantic Ocean

Boston

RHODE ISLAND Newport

Cape Cod

Day 7: White Mountains – Stowe (200km)

Highlights worth seeing along the way

Day 8: Stowe – Green Mountains – The Berkshires (260km) Take in some of the most spectacular scenery in Vermont’s Green Mountains and see picture-perfect villages and some of Vermont’s famous covered bridges.

Portsmouth – As the third oldest settlement in the US, discover this quaint city that will have you feeling like you are in Portsmouth, England.

Enjoy a visit to Strawbery Banke, an outdoor living history museum.

Day 9: The Berkshires – Lenox – Newport (290km) Day 10: Newport – Cape Cod (160km) Day 11: Cape Cod Discover magnificent Cape Cod with its high cliffs, rolling dunes, broad beaches, kilometres of walking trails and picturesque villages.

Acadia National Park – Discover soaring peaks, dramatic glacier-carved valleys, lakes and the rugged shoreline with the only fjord on the US Atlantic coast.

White Mountains – A landscape dotted with historic villages and enchanting covered bridges.

Day 12: Cape Cod – Boston (130km)

Mount Washington – Drive to the summit for some amazing views.

Or take a trip on the Mount Washington Cog Railway – the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $80 per day

Green Mountains – With their dense forests, these mountains are home to bears, moose and deer. You’ll also see cute villages and some covered bridges.

Some of our favourite places to stay: • Colonial Inn, Bar Harbor • Town & Country Inn, White Mountains • Golden Eagle Resort, Stowe • ShoreWay Acres Inn, Cape Cod

Newport – Visit the iconic mansions where some of America’s most prominent families – from the Astors to the Vanderbilts – used to summer.

Cape Cod – Check out the quaint seaside villages, visit the memorial to President John F. Kennedy and enjoy a harbour cruise.

© Maine Office of Tourism

© Martjin Leusink

The price guide shown is per car hire based on fully inclusive, 5-7 day hire rate. Price does not include Earlybird or other offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

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Washington, D.C.

© Sean Pavone

Our favourite things to see and do

A perfect day in Washington, D.C.

White House – No visit to D.C. is complete without getting a selfie outside the White House.

Monuments, memorials, museums, impressive government buildings

and home of the President of the USA, Washington, D.C. is full of iconic landmarks and steeped in history and culture. The city is really easy to get around, it’s flat and easy to navigate with its streets laid out in a grid system, but if your feet need a rest there is a clean and safe Metro system.

A great way to get a good fix of the famous sites is to take a leisurely stroll from the Lincoln Memorial and reflection pool, past the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and around the edge of the tidal basin. This will have you meandering through the FDR Roosevelt Memorial to the impressive Jefferson Memorial, if you are here in the spring the cherry blossoms are gorgeous. From here it is a 15 minute walk to the Washington Monument and the National Mall which is lined with Smithsonian Institute Museums. These incredible museums are free to enter – with 15 in total it would be virtually impossible to see them all in one visit, so it pays to do some research. Some of the most popular are the Air and Space Museum, the Natural History Museum, the American History Museum and the National Museum of African American History & Culture, which opened in September 2016.

Just near the National Mall is the Newseum – this is an incredible museum that portrays historical events through the media. There are newspaper stories, TV footage and interactive areas covering significant historical events such as the Berlin Wall, 9/11 and the Vietnam War. By now you’ll have worked up an appetite, so head for Dupont Circle where there are plenty of bistros, bars and boutiques and some great people watching.

Washington Plaza Omni Shoreham The Mayflower Hotel

Cherry Blossoms – They generally bloom between mid March and mid April and are absolutely beautiful. The Cherry Blossom Festival will run from 20 March-15 April 2018 and there are lots of events during this time.

Hop on Hop Off Tours – This is a great way to get your bearings and to learn about the city with a guided tour. You can stay on the bus or trolley for the full circuit or get on and off at the designated stops.

14th Street & U Street – U Street used to be famous for its incredible jazz scene, and there are still some great jazz bars. From here if you walk down 14th St towards Logan Circle you’ll be spoilt for dinner choices as this is a vibrant area with loads of eateries.

Martin Luther King Jr Memorial – This powerful memorial opened in October 2011 to recognise the history-making civil rights leader and serves as a lasting tribute to the freedom, opportunity and justice for which he stood.

Arlington Cemetery – This is the final resting place of more than 400,000 fallen heroes from Iraq, Afghanistan and veterans from WW1, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War and America’s Civil War. Established in 1864, the cemetery is still fully operational today, conducting an average of 27 funerals each day.

Washington Monument – Built to honour George Washington, the 169 metre marble obelisk towers over the city.

© Steven Heap

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Bike Tour – The National Mall area is quite large, so a bike tour is a great way to get to the main monuments and memorials. The biking is easy as it is all flat and you will get some great insights from your guide. There is also an evening tour where the crowds are less dense, the weather is cooler and the views of illuminated monuments are magnificent.

Georgetown – This idyllic, tree lined suburb is one of the city’s most upmarket. There are plenty of beautiful mansions, high-end shops, riverfront restaurants and the picturesque Georgetown University.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Vietnam Veteran Memorial – Next to the Lincoln Memorial, this simple but moving memorial contains more than 58,000 names of Americans that died in the Vietnam War.

© Washington.org

Chicago

© A Alexander Photography

A perfect day in Chicago

Is Chicago your kind of town? Jazz and blues bars, towering skyscrapers

and one HUGE lake – Chicago has a vibrant energy that reflects its diverse culture. By day the shopping is superb and at night the music scene comes alive. Not to mention the architecture that Chicago is famous for, which has a lot to do with the rebuilding of the city after the great fire of 1871.

In contrast to the towering skyscrapers are the Art Deco gems and the parklands on the banks of Lake Michigan where you can join the locals on the water or take a stroll in the park.

The morning is the best time of the day to head to Millennium Park to see the famous ‘bean’. This silver sculpture, known officially as Cloud Gate, makes for some great photos as the city buildings reflect onto the sculpture.

From here the Art Institute of Chicago is just a five minute stroll through the park and has one of the world’s largest collections of French impressionist paintings, along with the very cool modern wing with its contemporary art collection.

Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk where there is a string of little parks, dining areas and many excellent photo opportunities. You will definitely want to take in the city’s diverse architecture. This is where the first skyscraper was built and today you’ll see modern mirrored skyscrapers standing alongside beautiful historic gems. A great way to see the highlights and learn the history is on an architecture river cruise.

When you’re ready for dinner you’ll be spoilt for choice as Chicago has an amazing culinary scene with celebrity chefs, more than 20 Michelin star restaurants, rooftop bars, ethnic dining from around the globe and lots of local favourites.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Best Western River North Hotel DoubleTree Chicago Magnicifent Mile Palmer House Hilton

Our favourite things to see and do Sport – Depending on the time of year, you’ll be able to join the sports mad locals at a Bears, Bulls, White Sox, Cubs or Blackhawks game.

Navy Pier – Ride on the ferris wheel that’s modelled after the very first ferris wheel ever built for Chicago’s 1893 World Expo. You can also take lake cruises from here.

Great Views – Get up high and see for miles from either the Willis Tower’s Skydeck or if you’re feeling brave you can ‘tilt’ over the city at 360 Chicago – where the moving glass enclosure leans you over the edge of the John Hancock Centre.

Deep Dish Pizza – Indulge in some cheesy goodness at the famous pizzerias that serve up the huge and delicious deep dish pizza. Uno Pizzeria & Grill (a mainstay since 1943) and Giordano’s are two good pizza spots.

Hot Dogs – The Chicago way is with seven toppings; mustard, onions, bright green sweet relish, a dill pickle, tomato slices, spicy pickled peppers and a dash of celery salt. And absolutely no ketchup.

Music – They say the term ‘jazz’ was first coined in Chicago back in 1914, and there are still many great live jazz clubs around the city, Andy’s is a good one to check out. If blues is more your style then Buddy Guy’s Legends is a great place to start. The man himself still plays there quite often.

Music Festivals – Hear living legends at the Chicago Jazz Festival, which occurs over the US Labour Day weekend. Or if you’re more rock ‘n’ roll than jazz the famous Lollapalooza Music Festival is 02-05 August 2018.

Theatre – There is an amazing theatre scene with five Tony awardwinning theatre companies, and over 200 theatres in total. You can find anything from a Broadway show to an edgy original play, along with a symphony orchestra, dance companies and a world-class opera company.

Public Art – In the heart of the downtown ‘Loop’ area there is some great public art including a massive Picasso sculpture and a Chagall mosaic.

Dinosaurs – Pay a visit to The Field Museum to see the largest, most complete, best preserved T.Rex ever discovered. They call her Sue!

© A Alexander Photography

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Experience

Orlando

© Sean Pavone

There are smiles, and then there are heart-racing, taste-bud tempting, oncein-a-lifetime smiles; those are the kinds of smiles waiting for you in Orlando.

There’s Walt Disney World Resort that has to be seen to be believed – four theme parks and two water parks cover 69 square kilometres wrapped up with shopping and dining at Disney Springs. Then there is Universal Studios Florida with two theme parks, including two exciting Harry Potter lands – Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley – as well as their own brand new water park Volcano Bay that opened in May 2017. There’s also entertainment at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and in contrast to the theme parks, Cape Canaveral is nearby on the coast, so put aside a day to visit Kennedy Space Centre. There is so much diversity, so much to do – you’ll need to come back again!

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Walt Disney World Resort Parks & Tickets Magic Kingdom Park

5 Disney’s Animal Kingdom ThemePark Epcot

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Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney Springs

1 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Walt Disney World Resort Park Tickets A Magic Your Way Base Ticket provides entry to one of the four Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks for each ticket day (3-10 day options). You can also include options like the Park Hopper – where you visit multiple Disney Theme Parks on the same day or the Park Hopper PLUS option – where you add visits to Disney Water Parks.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios The Force is stronger than ever! Inside Star Wars™ Launch Bay, come face-to-face with some favourite Characters. Experience the soaring music and nighttime fireworks of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. Plus, play games with Toy Story pals, drop down a haunted elevator shaft and rock on a wild coaster ride!

Must-See: The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Toy Story Mania!, Toy Story Land (opens winter 2018) As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties: ©Disney.

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Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Magic Kingdom Park

Epcot

Live the fantasy as Disney stories come to life – from voyages with pirates to timeless tales with princesses. Zoom to the furthest reaches of the galaxy. And meet some favourite Disney Characters in person!

Must-See: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Happily Ever After, Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire

Sail into Arendelle with Anna, Elsa and friends on the Frozen Ever After attraction.

Fly over spectacular scenic wonders on every continent on the re-imagined Soarin’ Around the World. Explore the cultures, cuisine and fun of 11 great nations and cap it off with fireworks and lasers!

Must-See: Soarin’ Around the World, Mission: SPACE, Test Track Presented by Chevrolet®, World Showcase, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park The magic of nature now comes alive both day and night! Take a picturesque safari expedition. Brave a Yeti and twisting mountain passes. Enjoy festive dance parties.

Even sing and clap along with some special Disney friends on stage!

Must-See: Expedition Everest, Finding Nemo – The Musical, Festival of the Lion King, DINOSAUR, Kali River Rapids, Pandora – The World of AVATAR, Rivers of Light

Disney’s Water Parks Drop in, chill out and cool off at two splashtacular Water Parks – overflowing with thrill rides, chill rides, relaxing lounge areas, wave pools, and much more.

Must-See: Humunga Kowabunga, Miss Adventure Falls and Crush ‘n’ Gusher at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Cross Country Creek and Summit Plummet at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

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Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Disney’s All Star Movies Resort

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This great value resort showcases some neat Disney films with themed courtyard areas, like the dotted pups of 101 Dalmatians and the playful toys of Andy’s room with larger-than-life décor. There is a big Fantasiathemed pool where sorcerer Mickey sprays water and for the little ones there’s a kiddie pool and water play area. On selected nights they even show Disney films poolside.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

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Inspired by American turn-of-the-century National Park lodges, this resort is something else! Discover towering totem poles, headdresses or sink into a plush leather armchair in front of the roaring fireplace.

Outside, sit in a rocking chair overlooking a creek, wander along a nature trail through a pine forest, or whiz down the waterslide into the pool surrounded by trees and boulders.

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Explore the storybook landscapes seen in such classics as Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid with delightfully themed family suites and amazing courtyards and pools. There are three pools, the main is the largest at Walt Disney World Resort, and is inspired by Finding Nemo, with a cool interactive water play area. The kids will feel like they are part of their favourite movies.

Relax as lush gardens, warm breezes and the distant sound of steel drums beckon. Six brightly coloured ‘island’ villages surround a sparkling lake with sand beaches, heated pools, a marina, bike rentals and a nature trail. A food court, shopping bazaar, restaurant and two lounges give this resort the colour of the Caribbean. A limited number of specially themed Pirate Rooms provide added adventure with pirate ship beds and swashbuckling décor.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

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Get caught up in the romance and fun of New Orleans’s historic French Quarter at this amazingly themed resort. There are cobblestone streets, gas lamps, wrought-iron balconies and fragrant magnolia blossoms evoking the Antebellum era and colourful Mardi Gras characters and jazz keep things lively. There’s a Mardi Gras themed pool area with a water slide, hot tub and a pool bar close by.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Guest Benefits Complimentary Airport Service – Disney’s Magical Express transports hotel guests and their bags between Orlando International Airport and their Disney Resort hotel.

Complimentary Transportation – Motor coaches, ferryboats and monorails provide convenient guest access across Walt Disney World Resort.

Complimentary Disney Merchandise Delivery – Arrange to have your Theme Park purchases delivered directly to your hotel.

Extended Theme Park Hours – Enjoy Extra Magic Hours, with access to select attractions at one Theme Park each day beyond the standard operating schedule. Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required.

As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties: ©Disney. ©Disney/Pixar.

Orlando Accommodation

Vineland Rd

Universal Orlando Resort

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This is a great spot just off International Drive which means you are in strolling distance to a great array of restaurants, shops and attractions.

There’s also a free shuttle that takes you to Universal Studios, SeaWorld and Walt Disney World’s main transport centre, so getting out and about is hassle free. There’s a pool and games arcade at the hotel to keep the kids entertained too.

Oakridge Rd

Kirkman Rd

Universal’s Islands of Adventure Turkey Lake Rd

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International Drive

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Relax in a tropical setting or put on the walking shoes and head next door to SeaWorld. The next day hop on a shuttle to Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Studios. Round off the day with miniature golf for the family or a spa treatment for mum.

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Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld

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Walt Disney World Resort (18kms)

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

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This is a fun, bright, retro themed resort right in the heart of Universal’s theme parks. It’s also great if you need some time to chill out with two massive pools, a water slide, lazy river, bowling alley and a games arcade. There are free shuttles to both of the Universal Theme Parks and you even get in to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the park opens.

Hilton Orlando

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A great spot with lots of Orlando’s attractions a stone’s throw away.

It’s about a 15 minute drive to the entrance of Walt Disney World, five minutes from SeaWorld, 10 to Universal Orlando and the dining and shopping precinct of International Drive is a quick walk away. There are two great pools, a lazy river, water slide, whirl pool and cabanas or a putting green and jogging track for the more energetic.

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Orlando Sightseeing

St. Augustine Day Trip

SeaWorld Orlando

Head north east to the USA’s oldest city St. Augustine. This charming waterfront city has an old world feel with lots of history. Wander the cobbled streets, enjoy the excellent food in one of the many promenade cafés, take a tour of the waterfront fort or just relax and enjoy the ambience.

With 200 acres of world-class shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable animal encounters you won’t be short of things to do! State-of-theart rides such as Kraken and Journey to Atlantis twist, turn, and drench you, while there are also amazing animal experiences.

Universal’s Volcano Bay™ Opened in 2017, this is the third addition to theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort™.

Enjoy the thrills and relaxation of a tropical paradise like no other. You’ll find an oasis of excitement along with laid back luxuries creating an entirely new holiday experience.

Kennedy Space Centre

Airboat Ride Take a closer look at alligators and exotic wildlife as you glide through 4200 acres of untouched nature reserve, the swamp is free of any development and is 100% pure Florida wilderness. After your 30 minute airboat ride you’ll have time to explore at Wild Florida a wildlife park with plenty of exotic animals.

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Universal Orlando Resort™ Take your holiday to the next level at Universal Orlando Resort™. With three amazing theme parks – Universal Studios Florida™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure™, and Universal’s Volcano Bay™ water theme park– spectacular on-site hotels and more, it’s days and nights of endless fun for every member of the family.

Explore space travel and experience history in the making. An incredible glimpse of what goes on at the USA’s government installation that manages and operates America’s astronaut launch facilities. If you want to take this a step further, there is an option to have lunch with an astronaut.

Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2017 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

Miami

A perfect day in Miami

Travel down the east coast of the United States and eventually you’ll

find yourself in Miami, on a finger of land that pokes out between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. You’re only a few degrees shy of the tropics, and that sultry atmosphere is enhanced by the rich variety of cultural influences.

Head across the bridge from Miami Beach, passing plenty of cruise ships in dock on the way, to the heart of the downtown area. It is in a picturesque setting with the skyscrapers of the city alongside Biscayne Bay. Between the water and the city sits Bayfront Park, overlooking the marina. It’s a nice park which also has shopping and dining options.

You’ll definitely want to check out Calle Ocho in Little Havana, the vibrant Cuban neighbourhood. Calle Ocho is the main street in Little Havana where fruit stands, art galleries, Cuban restaurants and cigar shops line the avenue. The famous domino park is an open air area with tables where locals while away the afternoon playing dominoes.

Next, it’s back to buzzing Miami Beach for a wander along the boardwalk where you can gaze over the white sand and crystal blue waters or to admire the beautiful Art Deco architecture. In 1926 South Beach was flattened by a huge hurricane and the subsequent building boom meant a concentration of Art Deco buildings. They really are gorgeous and if you stroll south between Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, you will see many of the most impressive examples.

Our favourite places to stay: • • • •

Holiday Inn Miami Beach Oceanfront Surfcomber Hotel South Beach Royal Palm South Beach Loews Miami Beach Hotel

Our favourite things to see and do Hop on Hop off Tour – This is a great way to get to the different suburbs of Miami and to learn about the city along the way.

Ocean Drive – Fronting the beach in South Beach there are lots of cafés and bars along here. It is the place to be and be seen.

Art Deco Museum – This small exhibit will teach you all about the major historic design styles in Miami Beach (Mediterranean Revival, Art Deco and Miami Modern). They also take walking tours from here.

Lifeguard Towers – All along the beach are the funky, brightly painted lifeguard towers, they are dotted along the beach and all are different – great for photo ops.

Española Way – This is a cute little pedestrian street in South Beach that has a good selection of restaurants including a traditional Cuban restaurant.

South Pointe Park – A nice park at the southern end of South Beach with great views up Miami Beach and into the port. You can also see across to Fisher Island which is an exclusive private island community.

Bike Tours – Miami is very flat, so bike tours are a great way to explore.

Some of the most popular are the Little Havana Bike Tour, Art Deco Segway Tour and the Miami Beach Bike Tour.

Everglades – This preserved ecological system is just an hour’s drive away and is the third largest National Park in the US. These subtropical wetlands occupy 1.5 million acres of sawgrass prairies, saltwater marshes and a diverse population of wildlife that includes bald eagles, white-tailed deer and of course the alligators.

Key West Tour – If you don’t have time to spend in the Florida Keys this is a great way to get a taste. You will head down to Key West and once there you’ll have free time to do your own thing.

Museum Park – This park in the central city holds lots of outdoor events and is home to two excellent museums. The Perez Art Museum, housed in an impressive state of the art building, and the Patricia & Phillip Frost Museum of Science that reopened in 2016 after an extensive refurbishment.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – This is a very grand European style mansion with lovely gardens that were built in the early 1900s. They retain much of their original character and you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve just popped to Italy.

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Florida Keys

A perfect day in the Florida Keys

Florida Keys is one of the most unique places on earth. Calm. Serene.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – A perfect introduction to the Florida Keys, this nature reserve offers snorkelling, diving, camping and kayaking. An underwater highlight is the massive Christ of the Deep statue.

Laid back. Just the right setting to recharge your batteries and rejuvenate your spirits.

Under the sea – Whether you scuba dive, snorkel, or ride a glass-bottom boat, don’t miss gazing at the coral reef.

Start your Keys experience on your drive south from Miami to Key Largo – the gateway to the Keys, about an hour’s drive from Miami.

Sunset at Mallory Square – Witness the circus-like atmosphere of this nightly celebration, it might seem touristy but it’s a must for all first time visitors.

Once in Key Largo, kick off your shoes and put on your togs. This is the perfect place to explore dazzling underwater parks and reef.

The real fun begins at mile marker 113, where the Florida Keys Scenic Highway begins. From Key Largo to Key West you’ll cross 42 bridges over bright blue water, including the engineering marvel that is the Seven Mile Bridge.

Next you’ll hit Islamorada – why not have a go at game-fishing before heading further south to Marathon, right in the heart of the Keys and a place where pirates once roamed. Here you can check out the archaeological digs at Crane Point Hammock which have revealed over seven centuries of natural treasures.

Last but not least, you’ll arrive in Key West – the end of the line and the southernmost point in the United States. An island city of palm-lined streets boasting Victorian homes and gingerbread conch houses, head to Duval Street in Old Town Key West where you’ll find the best restaurants and shops.

Duval Crawl – Shop, eat and drink. Key West’s Duval Street and the nearby streets make a good day’s worth of window-shopping and peoplewatching.

On the water – From angling for trophy-size fish to zipping out to the Dry Tortugas, you just have to get out on the water.

Key Largo – The best place for first time divers and one of the best places to learn is at the Key Largo National Maritime Sanctuary which has kilometres of coral reefs.

Islamorda – This is one of the world’s top game-fishing destinations. For nearly 100 years, seasoned anglers have fished the clear, warm waters teeming with trophy-worthy fish.

Marathon – Boasting some of the best boating activities including: deepsea, reef or flats fishing, plus a local sand bar, waterfront restaurants, jetski tours, kayaking, paddle-boarding, or just cruise the turquoise waters.

Key West – A beautiful tropical island, where the moonflowers bloom at night and the classical Caribbean homes give off an air of romanticism.

Finish up your day by enjoying a cocktail watching a spectacular sunset and mixing with the fun-loving locals.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory – Walk through a magical environment filled with hundreds of the most beautiful butterflies, an impressive collection of flowering plants, colourful birds and cascading waterfalls.

Our favourite places to stay:

The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum – Right in Old Town Key West, this unique property was home to one of America’s most respected authors. Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote here for more than 10 years.

Step back in time and visit the rooms and gardens that witnessed the most prolific period of this Nobel Prize winner’s writing career.

• • •

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Our favourite things to see and do

Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel Orchid Key Inn, Key West The Marker Waterfront Resort

Experience

The South

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

It’s all about soul... smell the cornbread, hear the blues in Tennessee and the

Topeka KANSAS

sound of jazz in Louisiana. Enjoy music, food and culture in exciting cities all across Texas.

The ole Mississippi River flows down to New Orleans, Louisiana. A city that has gone through tragedies but the soul is still there. Jazz and the blues bring the French Quarter to life along the famous Bourbon Street and oh that Creole and Cajun cuisine thrills the senses. The city celebrates food and fun during the world-famous ‘Mardi Gras’ held every year just before the 40 days of Lent.

Memphis, Tennessee, known more these days as the home of Elvis Presley, is where the sound of blues began when W.C. Handy penned the first blues song.

Graceland and Beale Street are two famous addresses in the heart of the south.

Kansas City St Louis

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MISSOURI

Oklahoma City

ARKANSAS

OKLAHOMA

Little Rock

Dallas LOUISIANA

TEXAS Austin Houston

Baton Rouge

WEST VIRGINIA Richmond

Charleston

VIRGINIA

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Raleigh NORTH CAROLINA

Nashville TENNESSEE Memphis ALABAMA MISSISSIPPI Birmingham Jackson

Montgomery

Columbia SOUTH CAROLINA

Atlanta GEORGIA

Savannah Jacksonville

New Orleans

FLORIDA Orlando Tampa

San Antonio

Discover the capital of country music – Nashville, Tennessee. Live music can be seen and heard every day and night of the week. With more than 130 music venues, featuring nearly every genre of music, it’s easy to see why this is the city that ‘music calls home’.

Texas cities beat with a pulse all of their own. They’re richly historic and cutting-edge modern, full of unique culture, iconic architecture and music that’s second to none. Steeped in cowboy lore, Texas proudly holds onto its heritage. Delve into the history by visiting the Alamo in San Antonio and museums in Houston, or live out cowboy dreams on a dude ranch. When you get hungry, grab a bite of Tex-Mex cuisine or world-famous Texas BBQ. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Texas.

ILLINOIS

Fort Lauderdale Miami

GULF OF MEXICO

Florida Keys

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New Orleans

Our favourite things to see and do

A perfect day in New Orleans

Home to scores of jazz music, a plethora of history and piles of mouthwatering treats. New Orleans is a true melting pot of cultures and has an enchanting atmosphere. Try all the classic New Orleans flavours – beignets, po boys, gumbo and jambalaya all whilst listening to some toe tapping jazz or blues. New Orleans is a vibrant, buzzing, history laden city and is a fantastic place to spend some time.

Start the day by wandering through the French Quarter, it is only a 13 block by seven block area and the buildings are just gorgeous. There are many different styles of architecture blending Spanish, French, Creole and American styles together with walled courtyards, intricate cast iron balconies, cottages, mansions and lots of bright colours.

Jackson Square is the central point of the French Quarter, and has plenty of buskers and artists selling their works all around the square and just across the street is the famous Café du Monde. Opened in 1862 it is famous for its beignets and chickory coffee, this is all they sell and there is often a queue, even though it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You will also want to explore the Garden District, this is a gorgeous part of town, full of beautiful old mansions, with lovely gardens. You can easily get to the Garden District by street car, it’s a fun way to get around the city.

In the evening you will be ready to hear some music! Bourbon Street is the famous central street that has many bars and music venues and this is party central. If you prefer something a bit more low key, then head to Frenchmen Street. Just a 10 minute walk from the heart of French Quarter, there are two blocks of great live music venues.

Our favourite places to stay: • • • •

Royal Street – Running parallel to Bourbon Street it’s bursting with boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and restaurants.

Walking or Biking Tours – These are a great way to learn about the fascinating history of the city and to see some little hidden gems you may not find on your own.

Cemeteries – Some of the cemeteries in New Orleans are also tourist attractions with their elaborate crypts and mausoleums. St Louis Cemetery #1 and Lafayette Cemetery #1 are the most popular.

World War II Museum – This museum is consistently rated as the top thing to do in New Orleans and is an incredible interactive museum.

Mardi Gras World – This gives you a great history of the Mardi Gras, you can even watch artisans making the floats.

Preservation Hall – This is an amazing 45 minute acoustic show in an historic, intimate venue in the French Quarter. It’s been around since 1961 and has three shows most nights, you need to queue as it’s first-in-firstserved or there are very limited seats on a pre-sale basis.

Swamp Tours – Head out to the nearby swampland (bayou) where you’ll go by boat into the bayou. Cruise along checking out the wildlife (including alligators) and flora and hear about the Cajun history.

Plantation Home Tours – Within an hour’s drive of the city you can see a number of beautiful plantation homes. Some of the most famous ones are Laura Plantation, a creole style home with a fascinating family history and Oak Alley Plantation, this stunning mansion is in a very picturesque location at the end of an oak lined drive.

Local Delicacies – Food in Louisiana is different to anywhere else in the US The Creole and Cajun food is prevalent on menus in all levels of restaurants and you will see things such as crawfish etouffee, gumbo, jambalaya, mufulettas and po-boys.

Holiday Inn Chateau Le Moyne Wyndham French Quarter Maison Dupuy Hotel Hotel Monteleone

© Wayne Hsieh

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Cooking Schools – If you’re interested in the local food then this is a great way to not only learn how to make the local delicacies but to also learn about the history of the food and culture.

© Brand USA

Louisiana Louisiana’s cultural bounty is endless – whether you’re a music lover, history enthusiast, foodie or outdoor adventurer you are going to be spoilt for choice. Louisiana has an unparalleled diversity of cultures which contributes to the food, architecture and history of this fascinating place.

A 6 days/5 nights Suggested Self-Drive

LOUISIANA

Day 1-2: New Orleans You’ll love exploring New Orleans.

Day 3: New Orleans – Baton Rouge (130km) You can visit one of the largest plantation homes in the South, Nottoway Plantation and relive the fascinating history. Then hit Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, check out the cute downtown Main Street and then take a free guided tour of the “New” State Capitol, which is the largest state capitol building in the United States.

Day 4: Baton Rouge – Lafayette (93km) Get your taste buds ready as Lafayette is the heart of the Cajun country so you will be feasting on some amazing food as they have a bustling culinary scene along with rich cultural heritage.

Day 5: Lafayette – Houma (164km) Venture into Houma’s swamps and wetlands with exotic birds, brilliant flora, raccoons and a wide assortment of reptiles, including of course alligators. The historical downtown district of Houma has centuries-old architecture.

Day 6: Houma – New Orleans (90km) Head back to New Orleans via plantation country where you could see Evergreen Plantation, Laura Plantation and Oak Alley just to name a few.

Baton Rouge

Lafayette

New Orleans

Houma

GULF OF MEXICO Highlights worth seeing along the way Rural Life Museum, Baton Rouge – This open air museum shows how life was in 18th and 19th century rural Louisiana. It’s a great way to see the lifestyle and ways in which people lived.

St. Francisville – This quaint small town has a historic main street, plantation homes, antique shops, boutiques, art galleries and museums.

Acadian Village, Lafayette – An authentic showcase of historic homes alongside winding bayous depicting the unique Acadian architecture of the time.

Whitney Plantation – This plantation museum focusses on slavery through art, exhibits, restored buildings and hundreds of first-hand accounts of life as a slave. It gives a unique perspective of the lives of Louisiana’s enslaved people.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $99 per day Our favourite places to stay: • Maison Dupuy Hotel, New Orleans • Butler Greenwood Plantation & Bed and Breakfast, St Francisville • T’Frere’s House, Lafayette • The Inn at Houmas House Plantation and Gardens, Darrow

© Sandy Sulivan

Greenwood Gator Farm – Learn all about alligators up close… and we mean REAL CLOSE! You will see these large creatures and may even see them hatch from eggs.

Tabasco – Avery Island is the home of world-famous Tabasco sauce and is surrounded by swamps and marshes where pepper fields grow. There is a self-guided, 10-stop Tabasco tour that will take you through the Tabasco Museum, the greenhouse, the barrel warehouse and the factory building.

© Ashley Bischoff

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 1-4 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

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Memphis

A perfect day in Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee, is where the sound of blues began when W.C.

Handy penned the first blues song and also where rock ‘n’ roll was born.

The music is still alive and well today and Beale Street throbs with music at any time of the day or night.

The Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is definitely the first place to visit, created by the Smithsonian Institute it is an excellent museum. It begins with a short film about the history of music in the south you then continue on with an audio tour that takes you on a chronological journey through Memphis’ music milestones. There is plenty of memorabilia and a great selection of tunes to listen to.

From here there is a free shuttle that takes you to Graceland about a 15 minute drive away. Starting from the main ticket booth where you pick up your audio/iPad tour you then bus across the street to the Graceland mansion. You wander through at your own pace with the audio tour giving some fascinating insights into Elvis and his time living here. The rest of the Graceland complex has Elvis’ car collection, private plane and memorabilia.

Next it’s back on the free shuttle to Sun Studios, where you’ll hear more about Elvis’ career as it was here that he cut his first demo. There is a guided tour of a small museum and then you head into the actual studio where Elvis along with other greats such as Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash recorded.

By now you’ll be ready for some refreshments so it’s time to hit Beale Street, the downtown street with two blocks of live music venues – BB Kings Blues Club is a great place to start.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Comfort Inn Downtown DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis The Peabody Hotel

Our favourite things to see and do Stax Museum of American Soul – As churches were the birthplace of soul the tour starts in a church that has been reassembled inside the museum. There’s a great video that gives insights into how things were when Stax Studios was formed and the huge impact Stax had on soul music.

National Civil Rights Museum – Memphis has a very rich history in the civil rights movement and is where Dr Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The actual motel where this happened is now part of this excellent museum. It takes you on a historical journey through slavery, the civil war and into more modern history such as the Rosa Parks bus boycott, the freedom rides in 1961 and the student sit ins of the 1960s.

Peabody Ducks – These ducks live at the Peabody Hotel and every day at 11am they come down the elevator and head to the fountain in the lobby where they spend the day. Then at 5pm, off they go again and march through the lobby and back into the lift to head upstairs for the night. This has been going on since the 1930s. Get there early to get a good vantage point.

BBQ – Memphis is home to more than 100 BBQ restaurants so finding the local delicacy will not be an issue. The question is whether you like your BBQ wet or dry, slab or pulled, hot, mild, tangy or sweet? Charlie Vergos Restaurant has been making their BBQ since 1948 and are still going strong, it’s a great place to try.

Cooper & Young – This is where the locals hang out, at the intersection of Cooper Street and Young Avenue. Grab a cab here and then within a few steps in any direction, you can hear some great music and find some great restaurants.

Gibson Guitars – Take a tour of Gibson’s Memphis guitar factory and see Gibson’s skilled Luthiers craft some of the finest guitars in the world. See and hear how Gibson has helped shape the world of music for over 100 years.

Memphis Music Hall of Fame – Showcasing some of the greatest musicians of all time, each were responsible for shaping modern music and changing the world forever right from Memphis.

© Brand USA

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Nashville

© Sean Pavone

Our favourite things to see and do

A perfect day in Nashville

Hop on Hop off Tours – A great way to see the highlights of the city and to learn about the history of Nashville.

Discover the capital of country music – Nashville, Tennessee. Live

music can be seen and heard every day and night of the week. With more than 130 music venues, featuring nearly every genre of music and a rich history of music since its very beginnings it’s easy to see why they call themselves ‘Music City’.

A great place to start your stay is the Country Music Hall of Fame. It has more than 2.5 million artefacts, including countless recordings and photographs, costumes, instruments, and more. There is also the hall of fame, a rotunda where you’ll see brass plaques of those who have received the highest honour in country music.

From here you can get the shuttle to RCA Studio B to do a guided tour.

Here, from 1957-1977, there was some amazing country and pop music recorded, they are referred to as the studio of 1000 hits and say that very few other studios can claim as many hits as them. Some of the artists who recorded here were The Everly Brothers, Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison & Charley Pride.

After you get the shuttle back to the heart of the city you’re just a block to Lower Broadway or ‘Honky Tonk Row’. A honky tonk is basically a bar that has a stage and live music and Honky Tonk Row is jam packed with them. They have live music day and night and don’t cost a thing, there are no cover charges to get in, but there are tip jars for the band so you can show your appreciation that way. Many a famous country music star started their careers on this amazing street – you may see the next star in the making.

Johnny Cash Museum – Full of memorabilia and the story of Johnny Cash’s life.

Musicians Hall of Fame – This gives a great overview of the history of music in the southern USA. There is also a whole area on the Grammys and an interactive area where you can play instruments and sing your heart out (with the privacy of headphones).

BlueBird Café – You’ll know about this place if you’ve seen the TV show Nashville. It’s a venue in the suburbs where they have up and coming artists from all around the US perform their own songs. This is where Taylor Swift was discovered as a 15 year old. Check their website for tickets.

Ryman Auditorium – This lovely historic building is where the Grand Ole Opry started its life. The self-guided tour here includes a movie which gives you the history of the Ryman which is still a popular venue today.

Puckett’s – A great place to get your fix of southern food with live music most nights.

Honky Tonks – Tootsies Orchid Lounge and Layla’s are two great ones to try for live music. If you want to try some line dancing then Wild Horse Saloon is the place for you.

Jack Daniels – About 1.5 hours from Nashville is the Jack Daniels Distillery. Here you can do a guided tour and hear the complete story of their whiskey and their founder Mr Jack.

Bi Centennial Park – This 19 acre park is worth a wander to check out the 60 metre granite map of the state, the World War II Memorial and the Pathway of History.

Our favourite places to stay: • • •

Grand Ole Opry – This famous country music venue has concerts that are broadcast as a live radio show and is a must! The radio show has been going for 90 years and each show consists of an Opry member and guest artists performing – they play about three to four songs each. You can even do backstage tours.

Comfort Inn Downtown Hotel Indigo Nashville Sheraton Downtown

Nashville TV Show – If you’re a fan of the TV show there is a guided tour, on selected days, taking you to filming locations and the homes of characters on the show.

© Tenessee Department of Tourism

© Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation

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The Southern Music Journey Taking this journey through Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee will have you learning about some significant US history, experiencing amazing live music, feasting on superb local cuisine and retracing the steps of some of your musical heroes.

© Visit Mississippi

Nashville

7 days/6 nights Suggested Self-Drive

TENNESSEE

Memphis Day 1: New Orleans – Baton Rouge – Natchez (315km) Head along the Great River Road, alongside the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge to see a number of plantation homes such as Oak Alley and Laura Plantation. Check out the new and old capitol buildings of Baton Rouge.

Day 2: Natchez – Vicksburg (116km) Natchez is perched on a high bluff above the Mississippi River and has over 430 antebellum homes. Leave Natchez and get onto the beginning of Highway 61, or the Blues Highway, which takes you through the Mississippi Delta, the birthplace of the blues. Take a self-guided driving tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park.

Day 3: Vicksburg – Clarksdale (250km) Detour via Indianola to visit the BB King Museum before arriving in Clarksdale, in the Mississippi Delta, a great place to see the blues!

Day 4: Clarksdale – Memphis (125km) Stop at the Gateway to the Blues Museum, housed in an old train depot, which gives a great overview of the history of the blues.

Day 5: Memphis Check out the attractions such as the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Graceland and the Civil Rights Museum as well as enjoying live music on Beale Street.

Day 6: Memphis – Nashville (340km)

MISSISSIPPI Vicksburg

LOUISIANA Baton Rouge

Natchez

New Orleans

GULF OF MEXICO Highlights worth seeing along the way Laura Plantation – This creole style home, is a more modest, brightly coloured home with a fascinating family history.

Frogmore Plantation – This cotton plantation provides a fascinating history of cotton in the region and is still a working cotton operation today.

Mississippi Blues Highway – Along the highway there are many blue markers where you can read about famous musicians who have an association to this area.

Day 7: Nashville From the home of the blues to the home of country music you’ll enjoy checking out the County Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B, Grand Ole Opry and of course the honky tonks on Lower Broadway.

Vicksburg National Military Park – With 1800 acres and a 25 kilometre driving route with over 1300 markers, monuments and plaques honouring the lives lost during the battle of Vicksburg during the Civil War.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $83 per day

Ground Zero Blues Club, Clarksdale – This music venue, partly owned

by Morgan Freeman, is a great spot to grab a bite and a beer and listen to some great local blues musicians.

Some of our favourite places to stay: • Hampton Inn & Suites, Natchez • Best Western, Vicksburg • Comfort Inn, Clarksdale • Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis

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Clarksdale

Delta Blues Museum, Clarksdale – This local museum gives you a good understanding on how blues was shaped in this area.

BB King Blues Museum, Indianola – From the cotton fields, street corners and juke joints of the Mississippi Delta came the blues. Here you will see exhibits, artefacts, award-winning films and hear an amazing story.

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 5-7 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

The Mississippi River Experience authentic Southern culture as you journey through living history along the Lower Mississippi River. A unique blend of beauty and history, acclaimed cuisine and lively showboatstyle entertainment. So step onboard and experience America from the indescribable perspective of the river with American Queen Steamboat Company.

A Taste of the True South 9 days/8 nights Join us aboard the American Queen and enjoy the ultimate steamboat holiday, stroll the decks admiring the views, join our Hop-on Hop-off Shore Excursions and at night take in the Showboat entertainment in the Grand Saloon.

Day 1: New Orleans, Louisiana Your journey beings with a deluxe hotel stay in New Orleans.

Day 2: New Orleans, Louisiana Explore the city at your leisure with an afternoon transfer to the American Queen.

Day 3: Nottoway, Louisiana Tour Nottoway Plantation, the South’s largest, most glorious remaining Antebellum mansion with a rich history dating back to 1859.

Day 4: St. Francisville, Louisiana Spanish moss trees grow throughout the town, lending a beautiful southern comfort to the atmosphere.

Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi This charming river town was first inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers. It was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi.

Day 6: Vicksburg, Mississippi Described as the ‘Key to the South’ by Abraham Lincoln, this southern gem delivers a rich history unlike any other Civil War city.

Day 7: Greenville, Mississippi Discover the town’s interesting history at the William Alexander Percy Memorial Library featuring an exhibit to honour the literary heritage of Greenville’s renowned authors.

sR iv

er

pi Mississip Rive r

Day 8: River Cruising Treat yourself to a massage in the American Queen’s Spa or browse the gift shop for that perfect keepsake.

Memphis Arka ns a

Day 9: Memphis, Tennessee Disembark American Queen and bid your riverboat adieu.

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Dec) Reverse itineraries available Inclusions: 7 night River Cruise aboard American Queen, 1 night pre-cruise deluxe hotel stay in New Orleans, award-winning shore excursions, wine & beer with dinner, speciality coffee, bottled water & soft drinks onboard Price Guide From: $3143

Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area Greenville Vicksburg

Natchez St Francisville Nottoway Interco astal Waterway

New Orleans

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date. Itinerary varies depending on sailing. Port taxes and gratuities are additional.

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Texas This is one big and very diverse state. You can stroll on sandy beaches, explore majestic canyons, play cowboy and enjoy world-famous music and food. These three cities will give you a taste of Texas – there’s down to earth yet sophisticated Austin, a small university town that over the past few decades has grown into a bustling city. Dallas has the country’s largest urban arts district, a huge sports scene and heaps of attractions. Then Houston, America’s fourth-largest city, is very cosmopolitan, filled with world-class dining, arts, shopping and nightlife.

© Brand USA

Houston

Dallas

Austin

Whether you’re spending a day, a weekend or a week in Houston, it has something to keep everyone entertained.

Dallas is a sports fans’ dream. Called the ‘Best Sport City in America’, it’s the only city in the Southwest US where you can find all major American sports leagues. Cheer on the world-renowned Dallas Cowboys. Head to the American Airlines Center to root for the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks or the NHL’s Dallas Stars.

Or visit the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, to catch major league baseball’s Texas Rangers.

Austin is not only the state capital but also the Live Music Capital of the World®. Live music can be enjoyed in more than 250 venues throughout Austin. Annual music festivals such as South by Southwest (SXSW) in the spring and ACL (Austin City Limits) in the autumn are two of the most notable.

The Houston Museum District is one of the top cultural districts in the USA. With over 19 museums to explore from The Children’s Museum of Houston and the Contemporary Arts Museum to the Museum of Natural Science and the Health Museum.

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Austin is also a foodie paradise. Home to Texas’ best BBQ joints, craft beer and farmto-table-cuisine. Looking for something a bit different? Look out for one of the many Food Trailers around the city and if you’re in town in April head along to the Austin Food and Wine Festival.

Shopping is a must-do in Texas – it’s tax free for international shoppers. And there’s no better place than in Houston which is arguably the style capital of the South. From the Galleria to bargain hunting at the Premium Outlets, you’ll find it all.

Celebrate Texas history by visiting the historic Fair Park, a complex with many museums featuring the largest collection of beautifully preserved 1930s Art Deco architecture in the US Spend time at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn more about the life and legacy of JFK.

A trip to Houston wouldn’t be complete without seeing the number one attraction – Space Centre Houston. Discover the future and remarkable past of America’s spaceflight programme set among the largest collection of space artefacts in the southwestern United States.

And don’t forget the Western heritage, from Bonnie and Clyde to J.R. Ewing. Visit Pioneer Plaza and take your picture with the massive bronze monument of cattle drives and cowboys or check out Dallas Heritage Village to see what Dallas used to look like.

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

• DoubleTree by Hilton by the Galleria • The Westin Galleria • Magnolia Hotel Houston

•

• •

• Hilton Garden Inn Downtown • Hyatt Place Austin Downtown • Omni Austin Hotel Downtown

Homewood Suites by Hilton Dallas Downtown Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown Hotel ZaZa Dallas

With over 250 parks you’ll have plenty of outdoor space to explore. The Hike and Bike trail follows the edge of downtown Lady Bird Lake for more than 16 kilometres. Kayak, canoe or paddle board on the clear, calm waters of Lady Bird Lake which also offers a great view of the downtown Austin skyline.

Texas

© Thomas Fikar

10 days/9 nights Suggested Self-Drive Fort Worth Day 1-2: Houston Experience the best of Texas’ largest city. Begin with the Museum of Natural Science in the Houston Museum District and experience the world’s finest collection of gems and minerals, dinosaur fossils and more.

Day 3: Houston – Dallas (385km)

Dallas

TEXAS Austin Houston

Day 4: Dallas Visit The Sixth Floor Museum to walk through a timeline of John F. Kennedy’s life, presidency and assassination.

Day 5: Dallas – Fort Worth (52km) Here America’s Western heritage is showcased everywhere you go especially at the Stockyards National Historic District. Here you’ll see real cowboys in the daily Longhorn cattle drive.

Day 6: Fort Worth – Austin (305km) Day 7: Austin Austin is known as the gateway to the Texas Hill Country and site of The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Austin is also an arts and cultural hub with an amazing music scene.

Day 8: Austin – San Antonio (128km)

San Antonio

Highlights worth seeing along the way Space Center Houston – 45 minutes from downtown Houston this is a fascinating day out. Known around the world as the home of NASA Mission Control, International Space Station Mission Control and astronaut training, it’s amazing to see behind the scenes.

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, Fort Worth – Honouring excellence in rodeo and the Western lifestyle in Texas.

Austin – Catch a live performance at one of Austin’s nearly 200 music venues within walking distance of downtown. Discover some amazing food with everything from BBQ and Tex-Mex to award-winning cuisine.

Day 9: San Antonio A land of epic battles, flowing rivers and a flourishing culture.

Day 10: San Antonio – Houston (318km)

San Antonio Missions – In the 18th century, Spanish priests established five Catholic missions along the San Antonio River. Today, these missions represent the largest concentration of Spanish colonial missions in North America and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $80 per day

George W. Bush Library and Museum, Dallas – Featuring a replica of the Oval Office, beams from the World Trade Center twisted from the events of 9/11, a Texas Rose Garden and a number of interactive exhibits.

You can even experience the presidential decision-making process firsthand.

Some of our favourite places to stay: • Comfort Suites – Near the Galleria, Houston • Sheraton Dallas Hotel • The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel • El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel, San Antonio

© Sean Pavone The price guide shown is per car hire based on 5-7 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

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Georgia You won’t have trouble finding things to see and do in this charming Southern State.

There’s the buzzing state capital Atlanta for your big city fix. Then there’s scenic farmland and forests taking you to incredibly historic towns and villages. There is Augusta, the home of the famous Masters Golf Tournament and the beaches, quaint seaside towns and barrier islands along the Atlantic Coast.

© Sean Pavone

Atlanta

Savannah

Golden Isles

Famous for being the home of Martin Luther King Jr, Coca-Cola and CNN this city continues to grow and grow and is a big, bustling city. These three famous Atlanta icons all have popular attractions associated with them – The Martin Luther King Jr historic site commemorating the life, work and legacy of the civil rights leader, the World of Coca Cola showcasing the brand’s history, bottling and global products and you can also do an ‘Inside CNN” studio tour. Atlanta also has a thriving arts scene with museums, music venues, theatre and galleries – including the acclaimed High Museum of Art. Sport is also very popular so depending on the season you could catch a Braves baseball game, a Falcons NFL game or Hawkes basketball game.

Established in 1733, this is one of Georgia’s oldest and prettiest cities. There are parks full of oaks dripping in moss, antebellum mansions, intricate ironwork and of course plenty of Southern charm and hospitality.

This area, nestled along stretches of sand dunes and salt marshes, is made up of the mainland city of Brunswick and four barrier islands, each are quite distinct, but all have impressive landscapes and plenty to see and do.

Aside from these famous sites there is the Centennial Olympic Park, where art instalments, including a five-ringed fountain, commemorate Atlanta’s hosting of the Olympics in 1996. The Margaret Mitchell House where Gone With the Wind was written and the 33 acres of exhibitions, historic houses and gardens at the Atlanta History Centre.

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© Golden Isles Georgia

Along with quaint cobblestoned streets, fountains and squares, the historic district has around 1000 restored buildings. They’ve used the original colours; pinks, reds, blues and greens and this is now the largest National Historic Landmark District in the US, it is just gorgeous. You’ll definitely want to wander down River Street, with its old cotton warehouses now housing antique shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants and check out some of the museums, historic homes and art galleries to learn about the city’s history and culture. If you’ve had your fill of history, then check out the vibrant City Market, a great place to head, in the evening for dinner and nightlife.

The mainland town of Brunswick has a great old town lined with Victorian homes and a bustling waterfront where you can watch the shrimp boats unload, and then sample the catch of the day at one of the many restaurants.

St. Simons Island is the largest and has moss draped, oak-lined streets, sandy beaches, historic sites and some great dining. Sea Island is just a short drive away and home to some very swanky resorts. Little St. Simons Island is only accessible by boat and is a big nature sanctuary, there are limited accommodation options, and if you’re not staying there then you’ll need to do a guided tour to visit. Jekyll Island has a 15 kilometre white sand beach, four golf courses and a historic district.

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

• Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Midtown • Hyatt Place Atlanta Downtown • Sheraton Atlanta Hotel

• Holiday Inn Express Historic District • Hilton Garden Inn Historic District • Hotel Indigo Historic District

• • •

Hampton Inn & Suites Brunswick Hampton Inn & Suites Jekyll Island The King and Prince Beach, St Simon Island

Georgia

8 days/7 nights Suggested Self-Drive Day 1: Atlanta – Athens (116km) Athens is home of the University of Georgia and nestled just below the Blue Ridge Mountains. There’s a vibrant, restored Victorian downtown with plenty of impressive gardens and historic architecture to check out.

Day 2: Athens – Watkinsville – Madison – Eatonton – Milledgeville – Macon (165km) This journey takes you on the Antebellum Trail, where you will pass through historic communities that escaped General Sherman’s burning march. If you’re a history buff you may want to spend a couple of days exploring this area.

Atlanta Madison Eatonton Macon

Athens/Watkinsville Milledgeville

GEORGIA

Savannah

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Brunswick/ Golden Isles

Day 3: Macon – Savannah (267km) Macon has picturesque architecture and a rich history, the best sights are the city itself.

Day 4-5: Savannah Known for its natural beauty, magnificent architecture, quaint squares and rich history. A great way to explore is by the hop on hop off trolley tour.

Highlights worth seeing along the way Visitor Centres – These are a great first port of call in Georgian towns as they have good information and often self-guided tour maps.

Day 6: Savannah – Brunswick (185km) On the way check Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, walk beneath old Oak trees, explore the out-buildings and take a lantern tour of the house you will hear tales of the tragic history of the rice fields.

Botanical Garden of Georgia, Athens – Tour the three-story tropical conservatory, miles of nature trails and beautiful outdoor gardens.

Day 7-8: Golden Isles Drive to Jekyll Island, which has over 30 kilometres of paved trails through beaches, marshes, forests and historic sites if you wanted to stretch the legs and hire a bike. Drive to St. Simons Island and climb to the top of St. Simons Lighthouse for some great views.

Elder Mill Covered Bridge, Watkinsville – Visit this lovely 1860s covered bridge overlooking the mill and creek.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $72 per day

Otis Redding Statue, Macon – Check out the ‘Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay’ life-size bronze statue of the local soul music icon located on the banks of the Ocmulgee River.

Our favourite places to stay: • Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, Athens • Homewood Suites by Hilton Macon North • Hotel Indigo Historic District, Savannah • Hampton Inn & Suites Brunswick

Eagle Tavern Museum, Watkinsville – Built in 1801, this historic stage coach stop and tavern has artifacts from Antebellum Georgia.

Eatonton – Pick up a self-guided walking tour brochure which features 75 historic homes including Antebellum and Victorian era structures.

Milledgeville – Take a guided trolley tour through the historical district and hear fascinating stories of the spirited Old South.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island – See where rehabilitation efforts aim to save all five threatened or endangered sea turtles that nest in Georgia.

© Golden Isles

© Golden Isles Georgia

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 5-7 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

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Alabama This is a land of history, culture, food and music. Music legends Nat King Cole, W.C. Handy and Hank Williams were born in Alabama, and artists including Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones came to Alabama to cement their careers. Here, Gospel is sung in churches, while blues, country and jazz set the mood in local bars. Local restaurants dish up meals of mouth-watering BBQ and fresh seafood from Alabama’s fishing villages, and museums cover everything from Civil Rights and music history to fast cars and faster spacecraft.

Montgomery

Birmingham

Beaches & Gulf Coast

No city has played a greater role in the history of Alabama than Montgomery. From the Civil War to Civil Rights, it is steeped in fascinating history.

This is Alabama’s biggest city and also very famous for its role in the Civil Rights Movement. The Civil Rights District is bursting with history, and was the scene of some violent struggles in the 1960s. It has some fascinating landmarks such as the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute with an excellent introduction to the region’s volatile history and the infamous Sixteenth Street Baptist church, nominated as a World Heritage site.

The southern tip of Alabama is best known for Mobile Bay and the white sand beaches of the Gulf Coast.

The State Capitol is worth visiting, it is where in 1861 the breakaway Confederate States of America were born, resulting in the American Civil War. It is also the city in which Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others began laying the foundation for much of the Civil Rights movement. The church on Dexter Avenue where King delivered his message of freedom and equality still stands and welcomes visitors.

The Civil Rights Memorial & Centre is a mustsee. There are two parts – the museum with its powerful and informative film and exhibits and the incredibly moving sculpture dedicated to those who died during the modern Civil Rights movement. Montgomery also has the Hank Williams Museum and the Rosa Parks Museum which depicts events that started the Montgomery Bus Boycott. In the evening stroll along the banks of the Alabama River on the Riverwalk.

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Check out Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of vintage motorcycles and Sloss Furnaces where you can learn about the history of the steel industry. In the evening hear live music in the many entertainment districts or visit any of the new rooftop bars located in downtown. A must-see is one of the last remaining juke joints in America, Gip’s Place. Open only on Saturday evenings, enjoy live music and great food as you take in the sounds of blues, jazz, and a little bit of soul.

Mobile is an historic city, the first capital of the French Louisiana Territory and home of the first US Mardi Gras. Each year during carnival time the streets of downtown are filled with marching bands, brilliantly coloured floats and teeming crowds of parade goers.

Across Mobile Bay is the romantic city of Fairhope, stroll the downtown streets lined with art and gift shops before going to the restaurants located on the bay.

See the shrimp boats of Bayou La Batre, made famous in Forest Gump, and watch birds on the barrier Dauphin Island before taking a ferry ride across the bay to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for 50 kilometres of sun, sand and fun. Sugar-white beaches, fresh seafood, championship golf courses, charter fishing trips, wildlife areas and historic sites are just a few of Gulf Shores treasures.

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

Our favourite places to stay:

•

•

•

•

•

•

• •

•

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Montgomery Downtown Hampton Inn & Suites Montgomery Downtown Renaissance Hotel & Spa

Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham Downtown – The Tutwiler Redmont Hotel Birmingham, Curio Collection by Hilton Elyton Hotel

Hampton Inn Gulf Shores The Admiral Hotel Mobile Curio Collection

by Hilton The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, Mobile

Alabama

6 days/5 nights Suggested Self-Drive Day 1: Memphis or Nashville – Muscle Shoals – Huntsville (350/325km) First stop is the famous Muscle Shoals, where the Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon and others came to record their hits. Tour FAME Studios and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame before carrying on to Huntsville, home to the US Space & Rocket Center, the largest space museum in the world and home to US Space Camp.

Day 2: Huntsville – Birmingham (165km) Birmingham, where a giant statue of Vulcan overlooks downtown, you can find music, food galore and plenty of history including many Civil Rights struggles. It is also home of America’s largest collection of motorbikes at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and the Historic Sloss Furnaces.

Nashville Memphis Muscle Shoals

MISSISSIPPI Selma

LOUISIANA

Huntsville Birmingham Montgomery

ALABAMA

Mobile

Gulf Shores New Orleans

GULF OF MEXICO

Day 3: Birmingham – Selma – Montgomery (224km) Selma was the starting point of the Selma-to-Montgomery Civil Rights march of 1965, learn all about it at the National Voting Rights Museum. Continue to Montgomery where Hank Williams, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Martin Luther King, Jr and Rosa Parks all made history. There are wonderful museums and sites dedicated to these people who shaped America’s history.

Highlights worth seeing along the way

Day 4: Montgomery – Gulf Shores (312km) Continue south to the Gulf of Mexico and the beach side resort towns of Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. Here the beach is soft and white and the water is blue and warm and there are many bars and restaurants.

Southern Food – Known for award-winning BBQ and soul food. Saw’s Soul Kitchen in Birmingham is renowned for its Southern soul food and be sure to stop by the famous Dreamland Bar-B-Que in Birmingham or Mobile.

Day 5: Gulf Shores – Mobile (88km) Mobile is an historic port city. It’s Spanish, French and Southern heritage means interesting architecture and culture.

FAME Studio, Muscle Shoals – The effect that this studio has had in the world of music is undeniable. FAME has been involved in the production of records that have sold more than 300 million copies worldwide.

The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Birmingham – Where four young girls died from a Ku Klux Klan bombing. Tours are available during the week and on Sunday the congregation welcomes you to join them.

Day 6: Mobile – New Orleans (234km)

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute – Go inside to see the cell where Dr. King was imprisoned when he wrote “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” part of the museum’s Civil Rights Movement experience.

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $83 per day

RTJ Golf Trail – The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, a collection of 468 holes at 11 sites, stretches from Muscle Shoals to Mobile.

Our favourite places to stay: • Homewood Suites by Hilton Huntsville Downtown • Hampton Inn & Suites Birmingham Downtown – The Tutwiler • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Montgomery Downtown • Hampton Inn Gulf Shores

ATLANT

USS Alabama, Mobile – Explore the battleship, winner of nine battle stars in World War II, at one of America’s most impressive military parks.

Bellingrath Gardens – There is always something blooming in the amazing gardens of this 65-acre estate.

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 5-7 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

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Take to the Road

© Visit California/David Collier

There’s a lot to be said for having your own wheels on holiday. Tours are

CANADA Seattle Portland

Helena Minneapolis

Boise

Detroit

Buffalo

Portland Boston

New York Cleveland Omaha Chicago Philadelphia Cheyenne Columbus Baltimore Denver Kansas WASHINGTON, D.C. Indianapolis City Topeka Charleston St Louis Nashville Los Angeles Santa Fe Oklahoma City ATLANTIC Memphis OCEAN Phoenix Albuquerque Little Rock Atlanta San Diego Jackson Montgomery Baton Jacksonville Rouge New Orleans Houston Orlando

Sacramento

Lake San Francisco SaltCity Fresno Las Vegas

Fort Lauderdale Miami

MEXICO GULF OF MEXICO

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Forida Keys

great, but often you’ll glimpse an interesting side road or a quaint town, only to discover that your itinerary doesn’t go there. Driving in a foreign country can seem intimidating at first especially driving on the right hand side of the road. However, the roads are excellent, well signposted and you will find mainly courteous drivers on the road. If the freeways seem daunting, opt for the minor roads, you never know what you will come across – a unique shop or a hidden gem that only the locals know about. Out in the country, the roads are similar to what you find at home. There’s a range of car types available, from a compact little two door to a 4WD SUV and everything in between. And for those who want to live the American dream of driving a convertible along the open road, the Hertz Adrenalin Collection has a unique line of fun, sporty vehicles. Or if you prefer to take your home with you, a motorhome might be the option. For those adventure enthusiasts why not live the dream on the back of a Harley? Once all that’s sorted, you’re ready to hit the road!

Touring by Rental Car Driving in the USA Exploring America by car is easy. Driving on the right hand side of the road may be different, however the roads are excellent, well signposted and spacious. Just remember the centre line should be by the driver!

Choosing your Rental Car Take into consideration the size of the vehicle you require. If the vehicle is to be used for day touring from a central base, then a smaller vehicle may be adequate and easier for parking.

If doing longer travel, remember you will have luggage to transport around as well as the shopping, so a midsize to larger vehicle should be considered. We suggest you book before leaving home, as this will save you money and ensure that you get the vehicle of your choice.

Emergency Roadside Assistance While each vehicle is serviced and cared for individually there may be an instance that you need some assistance. You can rest assured that in the USA, Hertz provides Emergency Roadside Assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Hertz NeverLost Hertz NeverLost satellite navigation system is available at an additional cost, in certain vehicle types at selected airport and downtown locations across the country. The system has extensive detailed mapping, a wide easy-to-use full-colour touch-screen that provides access to turn-by-turn directions to points of interest including hotels and petrol stations, simply by touching an icon. Ideal for the independent traveller as you get to see and enjoy your surroundings instead of trying to read a map.

Things to think about: ••

Driving licence requirements

••

Minimum age restrictions and driving restrictions

••

Additional driver conditions

••

Deposits

••

One way rental fees

••

Optional equipment eg child seats, roof racks

••

Fuel policy

••

When you collect your car, Hertz will take an imprint of your credit card as security. The credit card must be in the renter’s name. Depending on rate type booked, additional taxes, fees and insurances may also apply at this time

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Self-Drive USA

© Sean Pavone

Parks and Nature in Nevada

Eastern Values

Pacific Coast Explorer

7 days/6 nights

9 days/8 nights

9 days/8 nights

From extraordinary landscapes to historic locations, Nevada offers limitless destinations for you to experience. Explore ghost towns, national and state parks and discover a state that will have you telling some unforgettable stories.

History, culture and the sense of wonder of Niagara Falls await. Go back in time as you travel through Amish country and Gettysburg to the powerhouse of USA – Washington, D.C. In Boston wander along the historic Freedom Trail.

Travelling from Seattle, see the rich landscape of Mount Rainier, a Washington state icon.

Enjoy coastal scenery along Oregon’s Pacific Coast Scenic Byway and see some of the world’s tallest trees in Redwood National Forest.

Day 1: Las Vegas – Death Valley National Park (228km) Head into Death Valley National Park and stop at Zabriskie Point for a scenic view across the park. Then head to Badwater – the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere.

Day 1-2: New York

Day 1: Seattle Enjoy the sights of Seattle.

Day 2: Death Valley National Park – Rhyolite – Tonopah (221km) Day 3: Tonopah – Lake Tahoe (373km) Enjoy your afternoon in the Lake Tahoe area with a ride up the Heavenly Gondola or end your day with a sunset cruise to stunning Emerald Cove.

Day 4: Lake Tahoe – Virginia City – Reno (107km) Visit Genoa, Nevada’s oldest town before heading to historic Virginia City and take a tour of one of the oldest mines in Nevada.

Day 5: Reno – Ely (514km) See quirky characters, charming towns and hidden treasures along the ‘Loneliest Road in America’.

Day 6: Ely – Great Basin National Park – Ely (244km)

Day 3: New York – Finger Lakes – Buffalo (613km) Travel across New York state through the Finger Lakes Country towards the Canadian border.

Day 4: Buffalo – Niagara Falls (64km) Take a short drive to Niagara Falls to view the thundering waters of the Horseshoe Falls.

Day 5: Buffalo – Amish Country (241km) Travel into Pennsylvania Dutch Amish country and explore this region and lifestyle.

Day 6: Amish Country – Gettysburg – Washington, D.C. (431km) Head through the Appalachian Mountains along the Susquehanna River. Visit the historic Gettysburg Civil War National Battleground.

Day 7: Washington, D.C. Explore the capital and its many historical landmarks.

Day 8: Washington, D.C. – Philadelphia (223km) Drive to Philadelphia, home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

Day 2: Seattle – Mt. Rainier National Park – Mt. St.Helens – Portland (430km) Check out the views of the two big peaks in Washington.

Day 3: Portland – Oregon Dunes – Redwood National Park (560km) The dramatic coastline of Oregon has panoramic vistas and picturesque towns for you to enjoy.

Day 4: Redwood National Park – Eureka (380km) Pass former Russian fishing settlements as you continue your drive today.

Day 5: Eureka – San Francisco (280km) Day 6: San Francisco Enjoy exploring San Francisco, Alcatraz is a must.

Day 7: San Francisco – Monterey/Carmel (200km) Head down the stunning landscape of 17-Mile Drive en route to the village of Carmel.

Day 8: Monterey/Carmel – Big Sur – Central Coast (390km)

Day 7: Ely – Cathedral Gorge State Park – Las Vegas (491km)

Day 9: Philadelphia – New York (154km)

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Departures: Daily Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation Price Guide From: $895

Departures: Daily (Apr-Oct) Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation and welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1288

Departures: Daily (Apr-Oct) Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation and welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1344

Lake Ontario

NEVADA

UTAH

Reno

Ely

Lake Tahoe Virginia City

Rhyolite Death Valley National Park

Niagara Falls

Day 9: Central Coast – Santa Barbara – Malibu – Los Angeles (376km)

NEW YORK

Seattle

Finger Lakes

Portland

WASHINGTON

Mt.Rainer Mt.St.Helens

Buffalo Great Basin National Park Cathedral Gorge State Park

Tonopah

CALIFORNIA

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© Visit California/Myles McGuinness

Lake Erie Amish Country

New York

PENNSYLVANIA Philadelphia

ARIZONA

WASHINGTON, D.C.

PACIFIC OCEAN

CALIFORNIA

Eureka

San Francisco

Gettysburg Las Vegas

OREGON

Redwood National Park

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Monterey Central Coast Santa Barbara

Big Sur Los Angeles

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

Self-Drive USA

© Luckyphotographer

© Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation

© Brand USA

Golden California

American Music and Movie Trails

Historic Route 66

12 days/11 nights

14 days/13 nights

16 days/15 nights

Marvel at 17-Mile Drive’s ‘The Lone Cypress’ before joining Highway 1 to experience the stunning coastline. Discover a different perspective than what’s seen in the big cities as you enjoy Danish-style hospitality in Solvang.

Relive great music and movie moments.

For jazz lovers, immerse yourself in the jazz sound along Bourbon Street, New Orleans and then on to the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame in Birmingham.

Get your kicks on Route 66! This is your chance to do the ultimate American road trip – passing through some amazing and diverse scenery. Highlights include the Mississippi River and the Petrified Forest National Park.

Day 1-3: San Francisco Explore this fascinating city.

Day 1-2: Chicago Spend time exploring the city.

Day 1-2: Chicago

Day 4: San Francisco – Monterey/Carmel (202km)

Day 3: Chicago – St. Louis (460km)

Day 5: Monterey/Carmel – California Central Coast – San Simeon (394km) Day 6: San Simeon – Solvang – Malibu – Los Angeles (334km) Day 7: Los Angeles

Day 3: Chicago – St. Louis (480km) Day 4: St. Louis – Springfield (340km)

Day 4: St. Louis – Memphis (451km) Graceland, home of the late Elvis Presley is a must.

Day 5: Springfield – Tulsa – Oklahoma City (520km) Day 6: Oklahoma City – Amarillo (420km)

Day 5: Memphis

Day 7: Amarillo – Albuquerque (450km)

Day 6: Memphis – Vicksburg (234km)

Day 8: Albuquerque

Day 7: Vicksburg – New Orleans (470km)

Day 8: Los Angeles – Las Vegas (450km) Day 9: Las Vegas (Grand Canyon Optional) Take a short drive to Lake Mead and Hoover Dam, or see one of the great natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon.

Day 10: Las Vegas – San Diego (538km) Day 11: San Diego A full day to discover San Diego.

Day 12: San Diego – Los Angeles (195km)

Day 9: Albuquerque – Santa Fe – Albuquerque (186km)

Day 8: New Orleans Day 9: New Orleans – Birmingham (544km)

Day 10: Albuquerque – Holbrook (420km)

Day 10: Birmingham – Chattanooga (238km)

Day 11: Holbrook – Grand Canyon National Park (290km)

Day 11: Chattanooga – Nashville (213km) Music City USA and home to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Day 12: Grand Canyon National Park – Las Vegas (480km)

Day 12: Nashville – Louisville (280km)

Day 13-14: Las Vegas – Santa Monica/Los Angeles (470km)

Day 13: Louisville – Chicago (480km)

Day 15-16: Los Angeles/Santa Monica

Day 14: Chicago

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Departures: Daily Inclusions: 11 nights accommodation and welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1122

Departures: Daily (Apr-Oct) Inclusions: 13 nights accommodation and welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1550

Departures: Daily (Apr-Oct) Inclusions: 15 nights accommodation and welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1655

San Francisco

Chicago

ILLINOIS

Monterey/ Carmel

CALIFORNIA

NEVADA

Las Vegas Central Coast

St. Louis

MISSOURI

San Diego

Louisville

Las Vegas Grand Canyon Calico

TENNESSEE Nashville

Memphis

Malibu Los Angeles

Chicago

KENTUCKY

Chattanooga

Holbrook Los Angeles Gallup

Birmingham

Vicksburg

LOUISIANA

ALABAMA

ATLANTIC OCEAN

St. Louis Santa Fe Amarillo Albuquerque

Tulsa

Springfield

Oklahoma City

New Orleans

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

69

Self-Drive USA

© Ivan Farca

Sunshine Trails

Western Values

Yellowstone to Glacier Drive

13 days/12 nights

14 days/13 nights

13 days/12 nights

Theme parks, beaches, everglades and Art Deco architecture are all part of the mix that makes up Florida. Cross the bridges to Key West, travel up the Gulf Coast then head down the coast to the beaches of Miami.

Explore the scenes that make up the Southwest such as Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks.

Visit the striking Grand Canyon and the vibrant Las Vegas, cross the famous Golden Gate Bridge, and spend time exploring San Francisco.

Head to the ‘Real America’ and explore Wyoming, where the classic cowboy culture is alive and well, and beautiful Montana with windswept plains, imposing mountain peaks and crystal-clear rivers and streams.

Day 1: Miami

Day 1: Los Angeles

Day 2: Miami – Key West (260km) Cross the 42 bridges to Key West for amazing clear blue water and white sand beaches.

Day 2: Los Angeles – Anaheim – Palm Springs (236km)

Day 1: Jackson, Wyoming Spend the day exploring this historic western town.

Day 2-3: Grand Teton National Park Check out the iconic mountain ranges.

Day 3: Key West – Key Largo (265km)

Day 3: Palm Springs – Joshua Tree National Park – Laughlin (418km)

Day 4: Key Largo – Everglades National Park – Naples (218km)

Day 4: Laughlin – Williams – Flagstaff (235km)

Day 5: Naples

Day 5: Flagstaff – Grand Canyon – Lake Powell/Page (307km)

Day 6: Naples – Sarasota (160km) Visit the winter residence of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, just outside Fort Myers on your way to Sarasota.

Day 7: Sarasota – Crystal River (290km) Day 8: Crystal River – St. Augustine (200km) Day 9: St. Augustine – Orlando (180km) Enjoy the theme park capital of the world, Orlando, your base for the next three nights.

Day 6: Flagstaff – Bryce Canyon (270km) Day 7: Bryce Canyon – Zion National Park – Las Vegas (380km) Day 8: Las Vegas

Day 12: Orlando – Cocoa Beach (97km) Day 13: Cocoa Beach – Miami (412km)

Day 4-6: Jackson – Yellowstone National Park (155km) Yellowstone has thermal activity, dramatic canyons, rivers and forests and is home to lots of animals including bears, wolves, bison and elk.

Day 7: Yellowstone National Park – Cody (187km) Cody is a town built by the legendary Old West showman Buffalo Bill Cody.

Day 9: Las Vegas – Death Valley – Fresno (720km)

Day 8: Cody – Red Lodge, Montana (180km)

Day 10: Fresno – Yosemite – San Francisco (245km)

Day 9: Red Lodge – Bozeman (272km) Bozeman is a relaxed town with an historic downtown.

Day 11: San Francisco

Day 10-11: Orlando

Day 10: Bozeman – Missoula (323km)

Day 12: San Francisco – Monterey/Carmel – Central Coast (465km) Day 13: Central Coast – Santa Barbara – Los Angeles Area (408km) Day 14: Los Angeles

Day 11-13: Missoula – Glacier National Park (328km) Experience the large concentration of glaciers and more than a million acres of mountains, forests, and lakes.

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Note: Rental car, road tolls, fuel, national park entrance fees, admission fees and surcharges not included

Departures: Daily Inclusions: 12 nights accommodation, welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1495

Departures: Daily Inclusions: 13 nights accommodation, welcome kit with detailed day to day itinerary Price Guide From: $1499

Departures: Daily (May-Sep) Inclusions: 12 nights accommodation SOUTH DAKOTA$2423 Price Guide From:

St Augustine

Yosemite San Francisco

Orlando

Montery/Carmel Sarasota

Glacier National Park & Whitefish

CALIFORNIA

Silver Springs Crystal River

FLORIDA

Naples Everglades National Park

Central Coast Santa Barbara Los Angeles Miami

NEVADA Fresno Death Valley Visalia

St.George

Solvang Las Vegas Laughlin Palm Springs

Key West

70

© Brand USA

Zion

UTAH

MONTANA

Missoula

Bryce Lake Powell

Grand Canyon Flagstaff Needles

ARIZONA

Yellowstone NP

IDAHO

Bozeman Red Lodge

Cody Jackson & Grand Teton National Park

WYOMING

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

Guided Touring by Motorcycle with RV EagleRider Touring with JUCY Rentals Eat. Sleep. Explore. Repeat. You can do it all in a JUCY Mini RV! Located in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Las Vegas, these customised rental vehicles have been designed and built

by JUCY themselves and are perfect for long or short getaways for the budget-conscious traveller. JUCY originated in New Zealand, where it has been providing car, campervan, cruise, and hostel options for adventurous travellers since 2001. This colourful brand has been in the USA since 2013 and they’re the best choice for fun, excitable travellers wanting to have the adventure of a lifetime.

JUCY Trailblazer

Things to think about:

The JUCY Trailblazer has all the modern features of a mini RV including a fridge, two gas stoves, sink and two comfortable double beds to sleep up to four people. The minivan base makes it super easy to drive and it’s economical on gas too – fantastic for exploring the best of the United States.

••

Check drivers licence requirements before booking. JUCY USA rent to 21+ with a valid licence

••

There are three pick up locations – Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Oakland (San Francisco)

••

There are plenty of additional items available for hire such as: Kitchen kit with: cutlery, dinnerware, pots and pans, can/bottle opener, utensils, dish towel, bedding kit including: linen, pillow, duvet and towel, GPS, various mileage pack options, external picnic table, camping chairs, heater, snow chains, Inverter, winter pack including: sleeping bag, thermos flask and hand warmers

••

Vehicles can be picked up Monday to Friday between 1pm and 3pm and 9am - 11am on Saturdays

••

You can return your JUCY vehicle Monday to Saturday between 9am and 11am. If you are wanting to begin your adventure earlier or later, JUCY offers After Hours pick ups and drop offs. Additional fees will apply

••

If you like to be close to the comforts of home, JUCY highly recommend KOA campgrounds - they have excellent facilities and JUCY customers get discounts get a 10% discount off their stay just by showing their keys

Jucy Trailblazer

Seat belts

Sleeps up to

Engine

Transmission

5

4

V6/3.3 litre

Automatic

Features: • 2x butane gas stoves • 31-42 quarts (30-40l) fridge (size not guaranteed) • Sink with tap and drain • 5.2gal (20l) water tank • 6.6gal (25l) waste water tank • Internal table • DVD player • CD player and radio • 2x bench seats • 2x double beds • Blinds • Storage space under benches (soft bags) • Power steering and ABS • Air conditioning in cabin You are charged for mileage, but you can pre-purchase mileage packages. Some options include: Unlimited miles - US$25 + tax per night, 500 mile package - US$120 + tax, 100 miles/night - US$12 + tax per night. Once you have used all your miles that you purchased, you will then be charged 25c per additional mile. This will be calculated at the end of your trip.

71

Adventure by Motorhome

Guided Touring by Motorcycle with EagleRider

One of the best self-drive destinations, the USA is the perfect country to hire a motorhome.

With wide roads and highways, drive with ease through the big cities and small towns. With a motorhome in the USA, forget the worries of trying to find accommodation and allow yourself the freedom and flexibility to explore this vast country at your own pace. Whether you decide to free camp or park up at a designated camp ground, the options are endless. Explore the popular states of California, Nevada & Florida or go further afield to North Carolina, Dakota or Oklahoma. Don’t limit your trip to the larger cities, the smaller locations provide just as much enjoyment, you never know what’s waiting around the corner!

Cruise America Motorhome Rates

Hints and Tips:

Inclusions: Statutory Liability Coverage, Supplemental Liability Insurance & VIP Coverage, additional driver fee

••

Check the driving licence and minimum age requirements before planning to book. In most cases the minimum age is 21

Not Included: Fuel, deposit, one way rental charges (if applicable), convenience kits with dishes, cookware, pillows, linen, towels, sleeping bags and cleaning equipment, cancellation and amendment fees, insurances, extra mileage prices & generator

••

Hire a GPS with your motorhome as Google maps on a smart phone may be out of range on those roads less travelled

••

One way hires may be permitted to selected locations at an additional fee

••

When you leave your vehicle don’t leave any valuables in sight – always take your passport with you

••

Pick up depots are usually located outside the CBD, sometimes up to an hour away. Check with your travel agent on the best option to get there

••

Motorhomes are much more suited to the open roads of the countryside than the congestion of the cities

••

Want to travel into Canada? This is permitted; you just have to advise when you book

Group

C17 Truck Camper

C19 Compact Motorhome

C25 Standard Motorhome

C30 Large Motorhome

Max Seatbelts

3

3

5

7

Ideal for

3 travellers

3 travellers

5 travellers

7 travellers

Vehicle pick up time is between 1pm to 4pm. Vehicle return time is between 9am to 11am. Please note times may change on Saturdays.

Vehicles cannot be collected on same day as arrival. Price may vary depending on the pick-up location. Driver’s licence and experience restrictions apply. All rental centres are closed on Sundays and public holidays. A minimum of 7 days rental is applicable.

Explore the best of the USA › Choose from 2 to 7 berth motorhomes › Trusted suppliers like Cruise America, Apollo, Road Bear & Britz › Freedom to drive into Canada › Accommodation and transport all in one

72

Adventure by Motorcycle Have you ever dreamed of climbing on the back of a Harley and cruising Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica? How about jumping on a Honda Gold Wing and touring the famous national parks? Now is the time to experience your ‘American Dream’ holiday with EagleRider on a pre-packaged guided or self-drive motorcycle tour. These amazing motorcycle holidays give you a chance to explore and discover the country as it was meant to be seen – on the back of your favourite Harley-Davidson, Honda, Triumph, BMW or Indian motorcycle.

EagleRider guided and self-drive tours provide a meticulously planned route itinerary, all hotel accommodation, as well as full motorcycle rental for your trip. Whether you are looking to experience the open roads of America with a group of fellow biker enthusiasts on a guided tour or blaze your own trails on a self-drive tour, EagleRider has the perfect ride.

Wild West 1

Pacific Coast

Route 66

8 days/7 nights

15 days/14 nights

15 days/14 nights

Solitary deserts, vibrant cities, deep canyons and high mountains – this guided motorcycle vacation has everything.

If winding down the Pacific Coast with the breeze in your hair and the sun on your face, stopping in at seaside towns sounds like a dream – then this tour is for you.

Cross eight states and 3900 kilometres from Chicago to Los Angeles on the original Route 66, also known as the ‘Mainstreet of America’.

Day 1: Los Angles Day 2: Los Angeles – Palm Springs Day 3: Palm Springs – Laughlin Day 4: Laughlin – Grand Canyon Day 5: Grand Canyon – Monument Valley Day 6: Monument Valley – Bryce Canyon Day 7: Bryce Canyon – Las Vegas Day 8: Las Vegas

Day 1-2: Seattle – Lake Quinault Day 3: Lake Quinault – Ocean Shores Day 4: Ocean Shores – Seaside Day 5: Seaside – Newport Day 6-7: Newport – Crescent City Day 8: Crescent City – Shelter Cove Day 9: Shelter Cove – Mendocino Day 10: Mendocino – San Francisco Day 11-12: San Francisco – Monterey Day 13: Monterey – Pismo Beach Day 14-15: Pismo Beach – Los Angeles

Day 1-2: Chicago – Springfield Day 3: Springfield – St. Louis Day 4: St. Louis – Joplin Day 5: Joplin – Oklahoma City Day 6: Oklahoma City – Amarillo Day 7-8: Amarillo – Santa Fe Day 9: Santa Fe – Gallup Day 10-11: Gallup – Grand Canyon – Laughlin Day 12-13: Laughlin – Las Vegas – Victorville Day 14-15: Victorville – Los Angeles

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Nov) Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, daily breakfast, 2 dinners, bike & fuel, helmet, custom riding jacket, tour leader, support vehicle, transport from hotel to EagleRider location Price Guide From: $4460

Departures: Set departures ( Jun-Sep) Inclusions: 14 nights accommodation, daily breakfast, 2 dinners, bike & fuel, helmet, custom riding jacket, tour leader, support vehicle, transport from hotel to EagleRider location Price Guide From: $7115

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Oct) Inclusions: 14 nights accommodation, daily breakfast, 2 dinners, bike & fuel, helmet, custom riding jacket, tour leader, support vehicle, transport from hotel to EagleRider location Price Guide From: $7115

Bryce Canyon

Neah Bay Ocean Shores Cannon Beach

Seattle

Chicago

Newport

Monument Valley Crescent City

Las Vegas Laughlin Los Angeles

Palm Springs

Grand Canyon

Shelter Cove Mendocino

San Francisco

Las Grand Vegas Canyon Santa Fe Victorville Laughin Gallup Amarillo Santa Monica

Monterey Pismo Beach

Springfield St Louis Joplin Oklahoma City

Santa Barbara Redondo Beach

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

73

Touring

USA

© Travel Vermont

Coach Tours

© Brand USA

© Brand USA

Western Trails

Romantic Trails of the South

8 days/7 nights

7 days/6 nights

Heading inland from Los Angeles you’ll enjoy the best of the west. From the glamorous Palm Springs to a Navajo Indian reservation and from national parks to amazing shopping you won’t be disappointed.

The South has long been romanticised. Explore the beautiful architecture of New Orleans, visit Jonesboro, the official “Gone with the Wind” town and see plantation homes that were the inspiration for the film. Why not treat yourselves to a Steamboat Dinner Jazz Cruise along the Mississippi?

Day 1: Los Angeles

Day 1: New Orleans

Day 2: Los Angeles – Palm Springs – Phoenix Check out Palm Spring’s lively downtown and golf courses at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains.

Day 2: New Orleans Immerse yourself in the charm and excitement of one of America’s most unique cities.

Day 3: Phoenix – Sedona – Grand Canyon Travel through the Sonoran Desert to Sedona, a city situated encircled by distinctive red-rock monoliths before arriving at Grand Canyon National Park.

Day 3: New Orleans – Baton Rouge – Natchez Today head into Mississippi and on to Natchez where every year the citizens open their lovingly restored antebellum homes so you can have a glimpse into southern life.

Day 4: Grand Canyon – Monument Valley – Page/Lake Powell Enter a Navajo Indian reservation and pass through the Painted Desert to visit Monument Valley, an area that embodies perhaps the most iconic images of the American West.

Day 4: Natchez – Mississippi River Valley – Memphis Leave Natchez and drive on to Memphis, also known as the ‘Home of the Blues’. No visit to Memphis is complete without a visit to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.

Day 5: Page/Lake Powell – Kanab – Bryce Canyon You’ll love visiting spectacular Bryce Canyon.

Day 5: Memphis – Nashville Continue on to Nashville, the capital of country music.

Day 6: Bryce Canyon – Zion – Las Vegas See the massive rock formations at Zion before arriving in dazzling Las Vegas.

Day 6: Nashville – Chattanooga – Atlanta On your journey to Atlanta enjoy a stop at Bulloch Hall, one of the outstanding plantation homes of the area.

Day 7: Las Vegas

Day 7: Atlanta

Day 8: Las Vegas – Mojave Desert – Los Angeles Travel to Los Angeles via the Mojave Desert, home to clusters of unique Joshua Trees.

SOUTH DAKOTA Departures: Set departures (Apr-Oct)

Departures: Set departures (May-Oct)

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation, some sightseeing and admissions, services of an American Tours International Tour Director, transportation by deluxe coach

Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, some sightseeing and admissions, services of an American Tours International Tour Director, transportation by deluxe coach

Price Guide From: $1414

Price Guide From: $1523

NEVADA CALIFORNIA Las Vegas Los Angeles

PACIFC OCEAN

UTAH Zion

Bryce Monument Valley Grand Canyon

Kanab Page

Mojave Desert

Nashville

TENNESSEE

Atlanta

Sedona Natchez

Palm Springs Phoenix

ARIZONA

Chattanooga

Memphis

Jackson

MISSISSIPPI

Baton Rouge

LOUISIANA

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

GEORGIA

ATLANTIC OCEAN

New Orleans

75

Coach Tours

Eastern Discovery

National Park Explorer

10 days/9 nights

14 days/13 nights

Discover the best of the east coast of the USA and Canada. Travel along Long Island Sound to Boston where you can explore the Freedom Trail.

Tour Gettysburg National Military Park and enjoy a comprehensive tour of Washington, D.C. With so much to see you’ll enjoy this trip around some of America and Canada’s famous landmarks.

Pass through some of the most diverse and beautiful scenery in the USA. Enjoy a tour of San Francisco, witness the eruptions of stunning geysers in Yellowstone National Park. Take a guided tour of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, walk through Arches National Park and travel along part of historic Route 66 before ending in the ‘City of Angels’ – LA.

Day 1: New York

Day 1-2: San Francisco

Day 2: New York – Boston

Day 3: San Francisco – Lake Tahoe – Sierra Nevada Mountains – Reno

Day 3: Boston – New England – Québec City Explore the rural New England states of New Hampshire and Vermont before crossing into Canada.

Day 4: Québec City – Montréal Take a tour of Québec City by coach and by foot before departing for Montréal.

Day 5: Montréal – Ottawa – Toronto This morning you’ll see Ottawa which boasts one of the most impressive parliament buildings in the world. Then continue along the 1000 Islands Parkway to Toronto where you can enjoy an optional excursion on the St. Lawrence River.

Day 4: Reno – Black Rock Desert – Twin Falls Day 5: Twin Falls – Craters of the Moon – Yellowstone Day 6: Yellowstone Day 7: Yellowstone – Grand Tetons – Jackson – Salt Lake City Day 8: Salt Lake City – Moab Day 9: Moab – Arches National Park – Canyonlands – Moab Day 10: Moab – Capitol Reef – Bryce Canyon Day 11: Bryce Canyon – Lake Powell – Grand Canyon – Flagstaff

Day 6: Toronto – Niagara Falls

Day 12: Flagstaff – Seligman/Route 66 – Las Vegas

Day 7: Niagara Falls – Gettysburg – Amish Country Day 8: Amish Country – Washington, D.C. Travel through rural countryside to Pennsylvania Dutch Country where you can visit an Amish Museum before departing for Washington, D.C.

Day 13: Las Vegas (Death Valley Optional) Day 14: Las Vegas – Mojave Desert – Beverly Hills – Los Angeles

Day 9: Washington, D.C. Day 10: Washington, D.C. – Philadelphia – New York Visit Philadelphia where you can see the Liberty Bell.

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Sep)

Departures: Set departures (May-Sep)

Inclusions: 9 nights accommodation, some sightseeing and admissions, services of an American Tours International Tour Director, transportation by deluxe coach

Inclusions: 13 nights accommodation, some sightseeing and admissions, services of an American Tours International Tour Director, transportation by deluxe coach

Price Guide From: $2131

Price Guide From: $3390

Québec City

CANADA

IDAHO

Craters of the Moon

Montreal Ottawa Thousand Islands Toronto

Lake Ontario Niagara Falls

Lancaster Amish Country

76

CALIFORNIA

Stowe

Lake Erie

USA

Twin Falls

Boston

New York Philadelphia

Washington, D.C.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

San Francisco

PACIFIC OCEAN

Reno

Salt Lake City

NEVADA Lake Tahoe UTAH

Los Angeles

Grand Teton/Jackson

WYOMING

Elko

Death Valley

Yellowstone National Park

Bryce Las Vegas

Arches NP Moab Capitol Reef Lake Powell

Grand Canyon National Park

ARIZONA

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

SOUTH DAKOTA

Small Group & Rail Tours

© Visit California/Myles McGuinness

California Coast Ride

Mighty 5 Utah Tour

3 days/2 nights

6 days/5 nights

From ‘Tinsel Town’ to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, you’ll enjoy this independent tour that includes must-see places along the way.

Along the Big Sur to Hearst Castle and from Monterey to San Francisco you’ll have a knowledgeable guide on tour and for the rest of your trip, sit back and relax on the AMTRAK Coast Starlight train.

Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. These are the five breath-taking national parks that make up the Utah Mighty 5®.

Experience them all on the guided tour across southern Utah. Enjoy hiking amongst stunning natural monuments and don’t forget your camera for once-in-a-lifetime photos.

Day 1: Anaheim or Los Angeles – San Luis Obispo See Simi Valley, orange groves and green houses before reaching the Pacific Coast. As the train hugs the shore see the most magnificent vistas west through Santa Barbara. Turning north at Point Arguello fields of strawberries and miles of new vines are all around you on the way to Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo.

Day 1: Salt Lake City – Arches National Park Hike to Mesa Arch for an up-close view of one of the most photographed arches in Canyonlands National Park.

Day 2: San Luis Obispo – Hearst Castle – Monterey Join your guide and head west to the coast and then on to San Simeon.

Tour Hearst Castle built during the 1920s and 1930s for the art collection of world-famous newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Enjoy a lunch stop, shop or visit a winery before heading back to San Luis Obispo and boarding your afternoon train. You’ll pass the horse ranches of Templeton and green pastures and vineyards of Paso Robles, and by early evening you reach Salinas.

Day 3: Monterey – San Francisco Enjoy the day in historic Monterey, Cannery Row, Pacific Grove, mansions and scenic vistas. See the Pacific crashing on the rocks and swirling around on 17 Mile Drive, where the Lone Cypress stands guard.

Brush with luxury at the resorts of Pebble Beach and spend time in Carmel by the Sea for shopping before departing late afternoon by coach for San Francisco.

Day 2: Arches National Park An early morning hike brings you to Delicate Arch and then it’s on to Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world.

Day 3: Canyonlands National Park & Capitol Reef National Park Capitol Reef National Park is one of the least visited parks in the US and filled with cliffs, canyons, bridges and fruit orchards. You’ll also see Petroglyphs and historic buildings left over by those who came before.

Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park Enjoy a beautiful sunrise from your balcony before heading off for a morning of exploring places such as Hickman Bridge. On arrival at Bryce Canyon enjoy a short hike to Mossy Cave.

Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park – Zion National Park Rise early to watch the sun rise over Bryce Canyon and the incredible hoodoos. This afternoon arrive at Zion and hike up to Canyon Overlook.

Day 6: Zion National Park – Salt Lake City Wake up early and explore the canyon. Traverse Angels Landing or hike to Observation Point before departing for Salt Lake City.

Departures: Set departures

Departures: Set departures

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner, Amtrak tickets, some sightseeing and admissions

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners, tour guide, comfortable transportation, park entrance fees, water and snacks, taxes and fees

Price Guide From: $925

Price Guide From: $2876

San Francisco 17 Mile Drive Carmel-by-the-Sea

Salt Lake City Monterey

CALIFORNIA Hearst Castle/ San Simeon

Pismo Beach

San Luis Obispo

Santa Barbara Los Angeles/ Anaheim

UTAH

Arches Canyonlands National Park National Park Moab Bryce Canyon National Park Capitol Reef Zion National Park National Park

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

77

Trafalgar - Simply the best... way to holiday Trafalgar infuses every trip with the best moments, like their exclusive Insider Experiences, VIP treatment and relaxing free time. Every element of their holidays is carefully crafted to take you to the heart of a destination, bringing local cultures to life with the perfect balance of the right experiences, sights, inclusions, hotels, even the locals you meet.

They’re committed to doing everything to give you the best holiday. And that means you’ll get the real thing, without worrying about a thing.

© Danilo Forcellini

Autumn Colours

Route 66

9 days/8 nights

15 days/14 nights

It was in these forests of New England that pilgrims and revolutionaries sought sanctuary. As autumn arrives, you can admire the fiery red, orange and yellow flames of fall foliage on a journey from Boston to Maine.

Buckle up for an American road trip you’ll never forget, tracing the famed Route 66 from Chicago to LA. From the world’s tallest arch to high living in a desert oasis, tune in to the welcoming spirit of The Main Street of America.

Trip Highlights: -- Learn about North Conway flora and fauna with a Local Specialist -- In Bar Harbor, enjoy a traditional lobster dinner and learn about lobster fishing from a fisherman -- Visit an historic woollen mill in Quechee that now houses the Simon Pearce glassblowing workshop, where you’ll relish a Regional Meal lunch -- Savour some of Ben & Jerry’s ice-cream at their factory in Vermont -- See the sunrise and marvel at the ancient maples in Acadia National Park, with their leaves glowing fiery red, burnt orange and mustard yellow -- Travel to stunning Portsmouth which sits near the mouth of the Piscataqua River that divides New Hampshire and Maine

Trip Highlights: -- Be My Guest: enjoy a traditional American BBQ, with a demonstration on how St. Louis ribs are smoked to perfection -- Gain a deeper understand of America’s Mother Road at the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame -- Cultural Insight: experience a guided tour of Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis -- Get a taste of the Old West at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum -- Wind along scenic Desert View Drive before arriving at the Grand Canyon where you’ll spend a night

Departures: Set departures (Sep-Oct)

Departures: Set departures (May-Oct)

Inclusions: 8 nights accommodation, daily full breakfast, 1 lunch, 4 dinners, experienced Travel Director, sightseeing & transport as per Trafalgar brochure

Inclusions: 14 nights accommodation, daily full breakfast, 5 dinners including Be My Guest, experienced Travel Director, sightseeing & transport as per Trafalgar brochure

Price Guide From: $4075

Price Guide From: $6175

MAINE

Stowe

Bar Harbor/ Acadia National Park

Burlington

VERMONT Woodstock

ILLINIOS

North Conway

Portsmouth

ATLANTIC OCEAN

CALIFORNIA

Kingman

Williamstown

Lexington & Concord

MASSACHUSETTS 78

Springfield

Cameron Trading Post Grand Canyon Petrified Forest National Park National Park Las Vegas Albuquerque

NEVADA

Quechee

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Chicago

Los Angeles

Flagstaff Seligman

ARIZONA

Boston

Meramec Caverns Route 66 Museum Amarillo

NEW MEXICO

St Louis

MISSOURI

Branson Tulsa Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA

TEXAS

PACIFIC OCEAN GULF OF MEXICO

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

MEXICO

Travelling with Insight Vacations Insight Vacations is renowned for small group sizes, luxury coaches with business class legroom and well located hotels in desirable locations. Their trips include must-see attractions so you don’t have to constantly dip into your pocket as you go and they’ve already done the research and taken care of all the hard work for you. Insight’s Travel Directors are the best in the business. They accompany you and enjoy sharing with you the best places to dine, drink, shop and the best vantage point for the perfect holiday snaps. With more 2 and 3 night stops than other guided holidays, you can truly absorb the essence of a destination. It is the finest, most hassle free way to explore the depth and breadth of USA.

New England’s Fall Foliage

Great Western American Adventure

8 days/7 nights

15 days/14 nights

Embark on the quintessential autumn holiday in this truly picturesque corner of North America, brimming with Americana and alive with the spectacular colours of an Indian Summer.

Glorious cities, wine country, dramatic canyons and coastal towns - this is truly a marvellous composition of the American West. This strikes the perfect balance between vibrant cities and spectacular natural wonders.

Trip Highlights: -- Boston: Follow part of the Freedom Trail that brings to life the story of the American Revolution -- Stockbridge: Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum, a wonderful snapshot of Americana, built to showcase the amazing artwork produced during his long career -- Woodstock: Explore one of the finest operating dairy farms in America and also a museum of Vermont’s rural past at the Billings Farm and Museum -- Franconia Notch: Enjoy superb panoramic views on-board the aerial tramway

Trip Highlights: -- Grand Canyon: Join a Local Expert for an informative presentation and witness the burnt orange hues of the canyon walls -- Monument Valley: Join a Navajo guide in an open-air vehicle to explore the iconic vistas of this Navajo Tribal Park -- San Francisco: Revisit the ‘Summer of Love’ with a Local Expert and former hippie at Haight-Ashbury, the iconic district where the hippie counterculture evolved -- Lake Powell: A testament to the power of water over rock, glide through the narrow sandstone turns of Antelope Canyon during your cruise

Departures: Set departures (Sep-Oct)

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Oct)

Inclusions: 7 nights premium accommodation with full breakfasts daily, 5 evening meals, experienced Trip Director, luxury coach with extra leg room, sightseeing as per itinerary

Inclusions: 14 nights premium accommodation with full breakfasts daily, 7 evening meals, experienced Trip Director, luxury coach with extra leg room, sightseeing as per itinerary

Price Guide From: $4495

Price Guide From: $8350

Mount Waterbury Washington MAINE Franconia Stowe Notch White Mountains North Conway Montpelier

VERMONT

Crawford Notch

Woodstock Billings Farm & Museum Bennington

NEW HAMPSHIRE

San Francisco

MASSACHUSETTS

NEVADA Yosemite National Park

Monterey Carmel

Portland Kennebunkport Nubble Lighthouse

San Simeon

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Williamstown Stockbridge

Sonoma

Zion National Park

CALIFORNIA

Las Vegas Grand Canyon Santa Barbara Malibu Los Angeles National Park Santa Monica

Boston

PACFIC OCEAN

The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

UTAH Bryce Canyon National Park Lake Powell Monument Valley Glen Canyon Dam Cameron Oak Creek Canyon Sedona

ARIZONA Scottsdale

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MAGIC

ISN’T IMAGINARY IT’S JUST VERY WELL PLANNED The magic ingredients for creating your perfect holiday are meticulous preparation and planning. Join us on an escorted journey of travel and discovery, as we venture to some of the most iconic and remarkable destinations in the USA.

Monument Valley, Arizona

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT

Terms & Conditions

Please read these booking conditions carefully CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT The guarantees under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 will apply to services supplied by us except where they are acquired, or held out as being acquired for business purposes.

1. OUR SERVICES AND OBLIGATIONS 1.1 House of Travel Ltd (‘we” or “us” as the case may be) supply services consisting of arranging and co-ordinating travel facilities and services, and making bookings and issuing vouchers to be redeemed by suppliers of travel, entertainment, and accommodation facilities or services (“Suppliers”). House of Travel Ltd is part of the House of Travel group.

1.2 We undertake to perform these services with reasonable care and skill. We will not be liable for any loss or damage which results from the act, default or omission of any person other than ourselves, our employees or agents, or any cause independent of human control. This includes (but is not limited to), loss or damage which arises directly or indirectly from any act of God, weather disruptions, dangers incidental to the sea, fire, breakdown in machinery or equipment, acts of Governments or other authorities de jure or de facto, wars whether declared or not, hostilities, civil disturbances, strikes, riots, deaths, pilferage, epidemics, quarantines or medical or customs regulations.

1.3 We are not able to exercise control over services we do not supply directly, therefore we will not be responsible for any loss or damage arising from: • Any booking made directly with a service Supplier by your travel agent, or • Any services which are not directly provided by us and which are additional to those recorded in clause 1.1 above.

1.4 We will endeavour to provide the most suitable travel arrangements to meet the particular requirements you make known to us. However, travel is an individual experience, and your preferences and opinions may vary from our own. For this reason, we cannot take responsibility for your individual satisfaction.

2. SUPPLY OF TRAVEL, ENTERTAINMENT AND ACCOMMODATION SERVICES AND FACILITIES 2.1 When we make bookings with Suppliers, we are acting as a booking agent for such Supplier.

2.2 All travel, entertainment, and accommodation facilities or services are supplied directly to you by the Suppliers. We have no control over the facilities or services themselves, or the manner in which they are provided by the Suppliers. Therefore you should be aware of the following conditions:

your travel agent is advised of changes which occur after booking, your travel agent is able to contact you.

9. RESERVATION AMENDMENTS 4.3 Maps and Photographs: Maps are shown for general information and may not necessarily reflect actual routings, locations or services provided.

Photographs may show places in the geographic area which are not included in your booking. Hotel room photographs may not be the actual room occupied.

4.4 Property Information: Descriptions featured in this brochure are drawn from information provided by our Suppliers. Any facilities or services shown are subject to change at any time. Please advise your travel agent if you have any special requirements.

4.5 Room Bedding: Based on existing bedding in the room. Requests for specific bedding arrangements must be made at the time of booking but can not be guaranteed. For example, twin share may consist of single beds or a shared double bed.

4.6 Rental Cars: We cannot guarantee to provide a particular model or colour within the car category. Availability of car categories is subject to confirmation at the time of booking. We reserve the right to substitute different models. If a vehicle is returned prior to the end of the reserved rental period or if the vehicle is picked up later than the reserved date, NO REFUND will be made for unused rental days 5. PRICES 5.1 The prices provided are a guide only based on low season, per adult share twin pricing and is correct at the time of printing. The actual price may differ to that indicated due to currency fluctuations, seasonal specials, special events, trade shows or peak periods. Prices for tours are based on per adult per tour for share twin based on low season travel. Prices for cruises are per person for the complete cruise based on the lead-in cabin category on a low season sailing.

5.2 We will guarantee the price of the portion of the booking as processed by us, against currency fluctuation for a period of seven (7) days from the time of confirmation of the booking; note: special conditions apply for cruise bookings. It is the responsibility of your travel agent to advise you of the date of confirmation. If your booking remains unpaid after the seven (7) day guarantee period it will be subject to currency fluctuation, up to the time full payment is received by us.

5.3 Events beyond our control, such as changes to the prices of aviation fuel or changes to the cost of services or facilities may result in the prices charged to you being different from those shown in the brochure. You should check all prices with your travel agent before making reservations, and before ticketing.

• We will not be liable for any loss or damage of any kind which may arise from your use or consumption of, or inability to use or consume those facilities or services.

5.4 Prices may also be liable to variation between the time of booking and the date of departure due to events beyond our control. Due to unforeseen events we reserve the right to vary the price up to the time of your departure.

• The provision of those facilities or services is subject to the terms and conditions of your contract with each Supplier.

6. HOUSE OF TRAVEL ACCOMMODATION RATINGS

• Where for any reason, a Supplier is unable to provide particular facilities or services, then that Supplier may be entitled, under its contract with you, to substitute those services or facilities with comparable or equivalent facilities or services without incurring any liability to you. You should check your contract with each Supplier.

• All facilities or services described by us are subject to availability from the Supplier.

• We will not be liable or responsible for any loss or damage relating to your baggage, personal possessions, health or welfare, or delays or travel disruptions unless these arise directly from the service we provide to you.

3. BUSINESS PURPOSES You agree that where our services are acquired for business purposes, or where you hold yourself out as acquiring our services for business purposes, the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 will not apply to any supply of goods or services made under these conditions, and we will not be liable or responsible for any loss or damage of any kind to you, including any consequential loss or damage however it may be caused.

4. INFORMATION IN THIS BROCHURE 4.1 While we attempt to ensure that the contents of this brochure are correct, accurate, and up to date at the time of printing, the contents of this brochure are drawn from information supplied to us by Suppliers. We do not have, and cannot be reasonably expected to have, personal knowledge about all of the facilities or services provided by each Supplier.

4.2 Facilities or services may change after the date of printing. We endeavour to keep travel agents informed of any changes to information in this brochure which are brought to our attention. Prior to completing your booking, you should ask your travel agent whether they are aware of any changes to the published information. You should also make sure that if

cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances. See Section 10.

To assist you with the selection of your accommodation, we have created our own rating system allowing you to compare each property. Please note that these gradings are to be used as a guide only and may alter throughout the year due to a change of circumstances. In general the room sizes in the USA can vary, even within one property. Please check with your House of Travel consultant to ensure you get the property that best suits your needs.

7. PAYMENT 7.1 A non-refundable deposit will be required by your travel agent and must be paid at the time of booking. This is in addition to any deposits imposed by Suppliers.

7.2 A communication charge may be made for bookings requested less than 72 hours prior to departure.

7.3 Final payment must be made in full before we can release travel documents (including tickets).

8. CANCELLATION 8.1 If you wish to cancel your booking for any reason, you must advise us in writing through your travel agent as soon as possible.

8.2 If you cancel your booking or any part of your booking, we will impose a cancellation fee in respect of each person travelling under that booking. You must also pay all cancellation fees imposed by Suppliers and your travel agent. These cancellation fees are required to offset booking, communication, and administrative charges which have already been incurred by us, Suppliers and your travel agent. Cancellation fees imposed

by Suppliers and travel agents are beyond our control and you should check with your travel agent regarding what cancellation fees may be applicable.

8.3 We strongly recommend that you insure yourself fully against

We are happy to incorporate any reasonable amendments you request. An amendment constitutes a change to an existing booking and will attract a $25 fee per amendment prior to final payment and the issuing of the travel documents, and a $50 fee per amendment after travel documents have been issued. These fees are to cover administration and communication costs. You may also be required to pay any Supplier imposed fees.

10. INSURANCE We strongly recommend that you insure yourself fully against cancellation, loss of luggage and personal property, and medical expenses. Your travel agent will be able to provide you with further information.

11. ITEMS NOT COVERED Unless otherwise specified, the cost of airfares, meals, drinks, laundry, insurance, sightseeing, transfers, local taxes, airport departure taxes, Airline imposed insurance levies, passenger service charges and Passport or Visa application fees are not included.

12. VISAS/PASSPORTS For all holidays in this brochure you will require a valid passport. You are responsible for arranging your own passport, visa and health requirements including inoculation. You should check with your travel agent who will be able to provide you with the necessary information.

13. NON-USE OF SERVICES OR FACILITIES If, of your own choice, you decide not to use part or parts of the arranged services or facilities, you will not be entitled to a refund from us (provided we have carried out our service with reasonable skill and care and to your requirements) and you may not be entitled to a refund from any Supplier.

14. HEALTH OR DISABILITY Some Suppliers may reserve the right to refuse to carry or accommodate people who because of a health condition or disability may require services or facilities to be provided in a special manner. You should check this with your travel agent.

15. SERVICE SATISFACTION During your holiday, if you encounter any situation where the service supplied to you does not meet your satisfaction, please take the matter up with the Supplier immediately. Your contract for each service is with the Supplier. If this is not possible immediately, or if you are still dissatisfied, please contact your travel agent. Both we and your travel agent will endeavour to investigate on your behalf and to negotiate with the Supplier to resolve the matter as soon as possible, so that you continue to enjoy your journey.

16. LEGAL CLAIMS Any claims or legal action in connection with the provision of our services to you will be governed by the laws of New Zealand. Any claim or legal action against the Suppliers is likely to be subject to the terms of your contract with them, and may be governed by the laws of other countries.

“They knew the way to get closer to myself, was to send me far from home.”

Bring in your ideas and we’ll help you get there.

The best holidays are created together.

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