December 2019 Leisure Group Travel

DECEMBER 2019

THE ANNUAL INDUSTRY

FORECAST Titans of Tourism

Learn how leaders are directing group tourism into the future

5 leaders offer their take on travel trends

Survey Says

See how your program compares in our group intentions study A Premier Travel Media publication • LeisureGroupTravel.com

Voyages Cruise Guide Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

y r o t S r u o

OUR BOARDWALK A world of entertaining and exciting experiences awaits in Atlantic City. Up and down our world-famous Boardwalk, and throughout your entire Atlantic City stay, you’ll experience the ultimate in tax-free shopping, award-winning dining for every taste, fun

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amusements and great local attractions.

Atlantic City offers the perfect setting to experience an exciting getaway and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Atlantic City Expert Heather Colache is available at 609-318-6097 or hcolache@meetac.com to make sure you enjoy Atlantic City as it was meant to be experienced. Call today to book your Atlantic City Experience.

Meet AC received funding through a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.

TourAtlanticCity.com

SI

SITE INSPECTION

Entertainment Thrives in Atlantic City

Groups will find an endless selection of attractions, dining options and retail stores

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tlantic City is synonymous with its famous boardwalk, bringing together stunning ocean views with nonstop seaside action. And with so many attractions—and several being added every year—it’s no wonder groups continue to venture to this lively resort city.

The Beaches & Boardwalk

The heart of Atlantic City is its beautiful beaches and bustling boardwalk. These formed the foundation of the city, allowing guests to experience both the natural side of the area and the spirited world of the resorts and casinos. The boardwalk, which spans seven miles, was the world’s first boardwalk and is lined with unique shops and eateries— including several stores selling the city’s famous salt-water taffy. In the last year, the boardwalk has gotten even better, with an expansion to the Inlet section along the water. The new section of the boardwalk lets guests walk, run, or bike directly to Historic Gardner’s Basin, a bayside park with shopping, dining, sightseeing tours and more.

Another recent addition to the oceanfront is the observation wheel, located at Steel Pier. The 227-foot attraction features 40 climate-controlled gondolas that give groups an unparalleled view of the Atlantic Ocean.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

Atlantic City Gaming and Entertainment

Atlantic City’s casino and resort landscape continues to transform, with major redevelopments and upgrades designed to improve the overall guest experience.

Ocean Casino Resort, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, recently opened its doors along the boardwalk, offering groups 138,000 square feet of gaming and a stateof-the-art sports book. For non-gamers, the hotel also features the largest Topgolf Swing Suite, an immersive, one-of-a-kind simulation that’s fun for everyone in the crew.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, housed in the former Taj Mahal Casino, opened its doors in the summer of 2018 after significant renovations both inside and outside. The new hotel includes a modern indoor pool, signature spa and fitness center, over 2,000 slots, and two entertainment venues that host major acts like Hall & Oates, Foreigner and Bob Dylan.

Group tours can enjoy Atlantic City’s best local bands at Fins Bar, a new addition to the Margaritaville LandShark Bar & Grill. The year-round beach bar offers guests a 2,300 square-foot deck, a large bar, and a portable stage that hosts live entertainment.

Shopping and Dining

Apart from being an entertainment mecca, Atlantic City is also known for its elite shopping and award-winning dining scene.

The Tanger Outlets the Walk is a 15-city block retail outlet that includes several chain retailers offering heavily reduced prices.

While The Quarter at Tropicana offers more than 25 shops in one convenient location.

The latest spot where groups get a taste of the new Atlantic City is The Orange Loop.

The Orange Loop consists of three beach blocks starting with Tennessee Avenue and expanding to St. James Place and New York Avenue. The new entertainment and dining hub features dynamic establishments that are sure to please everyone in the group. MADE Atlantic City Chocolate Bar is a bean-to-bar shop featuring cocktails, decadent desserts and fun alcohol and chocolate pairings.

Bourré serves up Cajun-style barbecue and themed cocktails, while guests enjoy free live performances.

MEET AC

Heather Colache, Director of Tourism hcolache@meetac.com 609-318-6097 meetac.com

December 2019 ■ 3

CONTENTS

December 2019 Vol. 29 No. 6

LATEST & GREATEST 37 SOUTH 47 WEST

COLUMNS

INDUSTRY FORECAST ISSUE 10 16

56 CENTRAL 62 EAST

6 ON MY MIND

TITANS OF TOURISM Five association leaders share insights on their organizations and how travel trends are affecting the industry at large

8 ON TRACK

READER INTENTIONS SURVEY RESULTS Responses to our survey paint a picture of today’s group travel landscape

9 ON TO NEW EXPERIENCES

B y J e f f G ay d u k

BY BOB SWEENEY AND DOUG HAUGEN

BY JOHN AND MARY STACHNIK

FEATURES 18

THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING GROUP TOUR By Jason Paha Small group tours and adventure tours are growing in popularity

SPECIAL SECTIONS 21

SMOKY MOUNTAIN TOUR GUIDE An in-depth look at the attractions you can find in the Smoky Mountains

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VOYAGES CRUISE GUIDE Exciting new group opportunities on popular cruise lines

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GUIDE TO GAMING These group-friendly gaming casinos offer a multitude of entertainment options

DESTINATIONS 38 42 45

SOUTH 7 OUTSTANDING HISTORIC TENNESSEE HOMES By Dave Bodle Mansions and humble homes tell the state’s remarkable story AGRITOURISM GROUP ADDS NEW DIMENSION TO INDUSTRY The Sunshine State is ahead of the agritourism curve

By Dave Bodle

WEST

ROCKY MOUNTAIN STATES CREATE A WINTER WONDERLAND

By Lauren DeLorenzo

Be dazzled by astonishing light displays and holiday attractions

CENTRAL

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MINNESOTA’S ETHNIC HERITAGE By Nabiha Asim Numerous group-friendly spots show off the state’s ethnic history

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EAT LIKE A SWEDE IN MINNESOTA By Nabiha Asim Swedish food is more than meatballs and pickled herring

57 61 79 82 4

EAST

TOUR THE CHESAPEAKE BAY By Mary Lu Laffey Discover quintessential Maryland while bay watching RELISH THE GROANING BOARD THAT IS CHESAPEAKE BAY Groups can eat happily and heartily in the bay

By Mary Lu Laffey

INT’L

6 EMERGING DESTINATIONS By Randy Mink There are still places in the world that are ripe for discovery TERRIFIC TENERIFE By Randy Mink The largest of Spain’s Canary Islands offers scenic splendor and culinary treats

■ December 2019

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Photo courtesy of Randy Mink

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Lava fields at the foot of Mount Teide on Tenerife in the Canary Islands

ARKANSAS GROUP TRAVEL PLANNER

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he 2020 Arkansas Group Travel Planner takes an in-depth look at one of the most beautiful states in the country.

Exploring breathtaking locales, excellent museums and outdoor adventures of North Central, Northwest, Central and Southwest Arkansas. This is the essential guide for planning group trips in Arkansas.

Check out the online version or download a print copy at: leisuregrouptravel.com/arkansas-group-travel-planner

VISIT LEISUREGROUPTRAVEL.COM STILL HUNGRY FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT? Check out more recent articles on leisuregrouptravel.com • How to Plan a Celebration Vacation with Your Friends • New Aquarium Signals Sea Change for St. Louis Tourism • Sweet Dreams in Manhattan

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et weekly digests of all the best online content with InSite, our free Friday e-newsletter, at: bit.ly/2nhxPvY

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ON THE COVER: Illustration courtesy of Mantonature/ iStock.com

December 2019 ■ 5

ON MY MIND

By Jeffrey Gayduk

Vol. 29, No. 6 December 2019 Editorial & Advertising Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

20 Years of Lessons Learned

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his month marks 20 years since I took over a struggling senior group travel magazine. Through two economic booms and two busts, I’ve certainly grown older and, I’d like to think, a little wiser these last two decades. Here’s a few things I picked up along the way.

ONLINE, THERE’S ALWAYS THE NEXT BIG THING

We’ve chased success with online directories, wikis, microsites and various advertising schemes. Today, we have one really good website for the leisure group market and I quite like it that way.

My number one rule is to find a great online person who cares about the cause. Rule number two, know your customers and how they interact with digital so you’re not chasing ghosts.

AGING GRACEFULLY

Honestly, I was a little embarrassed to be a publisher in my early 30s when most of my clients were from my parents’ generation. Scanning the room at a recent ABA marketplace, I came to realize that was no longer a problem.

EVERYONE LOVES A GOOD STORY

Just like a five-year-old child at bedtime, we all love good stories. There’s a lot of pressure on publishers to cow-tail to advertisers and I’ve seen it ruin previously powerful platforms. We absolutely love our advertising partners, but along the way realized that if we published garbage you would treat it as such.

GET SOME SLEEP

If there’s one thing I wished I could get back, it’s all those lost hours of sleep.

I laid awake many a nights, fretting about the economy, customers and what the competition was doing. I never had any breakthroughs at 2 a.m., and when the morning finally came, my problems were no closer to being solved.

SCRAPPY

Nothing comes easy in this business and games are won by taking sequential small steps that, when strung together, equate to victory. The feeling of accomplishment at the end of a big project is well worth the squeeze.

Comparing that first edition I published and what we’re putting out today, I’m both proud and humbled by where we’ve taken the publication and how we’ve played an important part in advancing the group travel industry.

Here’s to another 20 years!

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Associate Publisher – Dave Bodle dave@ptmgroups.com

Managing Editor – Jason Paha

jason@ptmgroups.com

Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com Associate Editor – Miles Dobis

miles@ptmgroups.com

Production & Marketing Coordinator – Annie Gavin annie@ptmgroups.com

Chief of Content & Technology – Lance Harrell

lance@ptmgroups.com

Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com

Vice President – Theresa O’Rourke Midwest, Frontier/Mountain West P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 theresa@ptmgroups.com

Regional Business Development Managers Midwest, Mid-Atlantic/New England – Tom Tobiason P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 tom@ptmgroups.com

South/West Coast – Cheryl Rash P 563.613.3068 • F 815.225.5274 cheryl@ptmgroups.com

The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsi bility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.

Leisure Group Travel (ISSN-1531-1406)

is published bi-monthly by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations. Other travel-related suppliers may subscribe at the reduced rate of $12.00 per year. The regular sub scrip tion price for all others is $18.00 per year.

Single copies are $4.95 each.

Send Address Change to: Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 A

publication

All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.

Jeff Gayduk, Publisher 6

■ December 2019

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

ON TRACK

By Bob Sweeney and Doug Haugen

of the fixed costs, the addbacks amount to $25,000. The owner feels their position is really a $50,000 per year job and/or they stay on post sale for that. This is a savings of $25,000. You also add back any interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, e.g. $15,000. The total EBITDA “net profit, addback savings etc.” is $90,000. We are seeing three times as the multiple on this size of cash flow. The valuation here is $270,000. Obviously, there are many moving parts and things to consider, each business will be different and have many things to be factored in. This should help you with a rough idea as to the process of determining your value. In both examples, there may be other extraordinary expenses that could get counted as addbacks as well.

HERE ARE 10 TIPS FOR SELLERS:

Selling Your Business?

Here Are Some Tips

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nce you’ve determined you want to sell, valuing your business is the next step in the process.

Here are a few simple formulas for small to mid-size companies who want to sell: Buyers will look at valuing the company a few ways. One is based on the seller’s discretionary cash flow (SDC) and the other is what’s left after paying all expenses or the EBITDA, which is Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization. In both of these examples, the calculation is done by recasting the income statement.

The SDC figure includes the current owner’s salary. To determine the cash flow in either method, you can recast the last 12 months’ Income Statement or P & L. In the examples below, the income statement and tax return may show $100K in earnings, but there is a true SDC or EBITDA to be determined via recasting the

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income statements, etc.

SDC Example: A company produces $500,000 in gross profit with $25,000 in net profit. The owner’s salary is $75,000.

Outside of the true fixed business costs, all excess owners’ discretionary spending or expenses are then itemized. This includes excess rent, 401K, car, cell phone, gas, meals and entertainment, non-working family member, etc. For this example, those expense items, or addbacks, amount to $25,000. You add the $25,000 net profit, the $75,000 salary plus the addbacks of $25,000 for a true SDC, which is $125,000. We are seeing multiples of two times the SDC on average.

The valuation is $250,000. We don’t set the market, but this is around what we are seeing buyers and sellers agreeing to.

EBITDA Example: A company produces $500,000 in gross profit with $25,000 in net profit. The owner’s salary is $75,000. Outside

1. Never limit your buying pool in any way.

2. Do not attempt to do it yourself.

3. Do not sign long-term contracts of any type just before closing.

4. Do not give up client list prior to closing.

5. Do not become emotional, cool is a rule.

6. Do not tell anyone else you are considering a sale.

7. You need to have a reality-based asking price.

8. Start the process 18 months prior to when you wish to walk away and stay on one year after the sale minimum.

9. Have your financial records in order.

10. The risk for selling too soon pales in comparison to the risk of selling too late.

Bob Sweeney spent the 1980s working as an institutional broker for Oppenheimer and Shearson Lehman.

In 1991, he founded ITA, now known as the Matchmakers of Tour and Travel industries. Together, Bob and Doug have overseen 645 successfully completed transactions.

Doug Haugen has been successfully linking buyers and sellers since 1998. He has enjoyed helping clients of small and large travel companies to sell their business.

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

ON TO NEW EXPERIENCES

By John and Mary Stachnik

This is the way we saw many companies title their offering:

California is a popular destination for group travel.

California A Trip to Paradise

It should have read:

New Experiences Are Great Experiences Waiting to Happen

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

M

ost every travel person is familiar with the phrase “been there and done that.” It drives travel planners crazy to hear this comment on future travel destinations.

We would be offering a program to California, for example, and the first thing we heard from the planners was “no thanks, we’ve been there, done that.”

The fact of the matter is California is home to one out of every seven Americans. It’s a pretty big destination both people-wise and attractions-wise.

There is no shortage of things to do and that includes new points of interest.

It’s a good bet (and we know this from decades of tour development) that new is the operative word in these notes for you. The good news is that California (and other destinations) are your partner in marketing. They want nothing more than to get new travelers to try out their new attractions, events, cultures, etc. and will devote significant resources to aid in your promotion efforts.

All-New Trip to Paradise 10 New Events and Attractions

You’ll note the name California is not mentioned yet. You do not want good vibes to be overridden by a not-as-good vibe and there aren’t many vibes better than paradise.

By the way, one of the great successes we had was with a new tour named “11 Countries in 4 Days.” It was a trip to Nebraska, which is not the easiest destination to sell. But, Nebraska has plenty of culture and we enjoyed an event or experience at every stop. The trip was a great success because we featured NEW. So, don’t forget: finding new things to do is not difficult. There are industry get togethers where travel providers would love to talk about what’s new in their neck of the woods. Travel publications (such as the one you are currently reading) earn their keep by focusing on new events.

Several years ago, the National Tour Association did research on travelers’ most desired destination. The answer was Something New. That destination is still No. 1 in the eyes of the survey.

John and Mary Stachnik are the former owners of Mayflower Tours, a tour business they ran from 1979-2018.

In 2012, John was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award by the United States Tour Operators Association. Mary Stachnik raised two children while heading the sales department at Mayflower, which became a major force in the travel industry. Mary was twice named to Travel Agent magazine’s list of the top 100 women in the travel business.

John and Mary worked together and successfully survived (married 53 years). They make their home in Florida and Illinois.

December 2019 ■ 9

INDUSTRY FORECAST

TITANS 2 2 OF TOURISM 2 2

IN AN INDUSTRY replete with savvy entrepreneurs, creative operators and skilled marketers, there are a few who not only keep their finger on the pulse of the travel business but also are a driving force behind the heartbeat of their niche. These Titans of Tourism help to guide and shape our industry in numerous ways, from supervising associations and building communities, to developing innovative tools and creative applications for existing practices. Leisure Group Travel has sought out five such Titans and asked them to share with us insight on the changes and trends within their organizations and how it affects our industry at large.

THIS YEAR’S TITANS:

2 CHRISTINA BECKMANN

Senior Director, Strategy & Impact Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) is widely recognized as a vital leadership voice and partner for the adventure travel industry around the world. ATTA is designed to be a force for the industry and exists to drive thought leadership, industry promotion, and opportunities to network and convene globally to create trade and business health. It currently serves more than 1,000 members in 100 countries worldwide. The constituency is made up of tour operators, tourism boards, specialty agents and accommodations all sharing a vested interest in the sustainable development of adventure tourism.

2 TERRY DALE

President and CEO, United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) The tour operator member companies of the United States Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow travelers unparalleled access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value and freedom to 10

■ December 2019

enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business. As a voice for the tour operator industry for more than 40 years, USTOA also provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.

2 PERRY FLINT

Head of Corporate Communications International Air Transport Association (IATA) The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is the trade association of the global airline industry, representing some 290 airlines comprising 82 percent of global air traffic. For over 70 years, IATA has developed global commercial standards upon which the air transport industry is built.

Its aim is to assist airlines by simplifying processes and increasing passenger convenience while reducing costs and improving efficiency.

2 PETER PANTUSO

CTIS, President & CEO American Bus Association (ABA) The American Bus Association (ABA) is the trade organization of the intercity bus, tour and travel industry with more than 1,000 motorcoach and tour company members in the United States and Canada. Its members operate charter, tour, regular route, airport express, special operations and contract services. Another 2,800 members are travel and tourism organizations and suppliers of bus products and services who work in partnership with the North American motorcoach industry.

2 LISA SIMON

Executive Director, International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) The International Inbound Travel Association is the trade association of the United States’ inbound travel industry. Its members are the leading U.S.-based inbound operators, which are companies providing B2B travel services to international tour operators and travel buyers around the world. IITA delivers education and training designed to help the industry grow inbound travel, and advocates for its members’ interests with policymakers, government and industry organizations. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Adventure Travel Leading in Grappling with Climate Concerns

BY CHRISTINA BECKMANN

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e want to go much further than neutral, we want to be carbon positive,” Alex Narracott, the CEO and Founder of Much Better Adventures, said recently. Much Better Adventures has served over 28,000 travellers since it launched in 2012 and is growing more than 100 percent year on year. Similarly, Intrepid Travel, one of the largest adventure travel operators with 350,000 travelers per year, says it aims to be climate positive in 2020. As CEO James Thornton wrote in a company blog in June 2019, “Going climate positive means not just offsetting our carbon emissions but actually improving the environment by removing additional carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.”

While in many places of the world it has been shown conservation comes as a consequence of travel and provides a muchneeded business argument for preserving our Earth’s wild spaces and valuable ecosystems, it’s also true the carbon dioxide emissions associated with travel are significant.

Adventure travelers contribute to the global carbon emissions of tourism, which have been shown to account for approximately 8 LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Paradoxically, the corner of the travel industry that prides itself on its connection to the conservation of nature and culture now finds itself in the position of contributing to the global warming that is putting many natural and cultural treasures at extreme risk.

As awareness for the environmental impacts of travel deepens, from the impact of flying to the impact on local infrastructure from high volumes of visitors (“overtourism”), the adventure travel sector has found a renewed passion for its core tenet of sustainability. A 2019 market study conducted by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC)/ World Bank Group estimated the value of outbound adventure and cultural travelers from the U.S. at approximately $96 billion and the outbound value of Australian adventure and cultural travelers at $12 billion.

ADVENTURE TRAVEL CONSUMER TRENDS According to the most recent research, adventure and cultural travelers can be grouped into three primary segments Cultural Explorers, Experience Samplers, and Adventure Intensives. Examining USA and Australia only, these segments represent a market worth $108 billion. Favored activities include kayaking, backpacking, camping, mountain biking, snorkeling, and motorized sports. Tour operators report that adventure travelers continue to prioritize custom itineraries, remote destinations and trails, and green/sustainable itineraries - “trips intentionally and carefully designed to be environmentally sustainable, for example zero waste, carbon negative or carbon neutral.”

Adventure businesses, responsive to trends in consumer preferences and who have set themselves conservation goals from

the start, are now making their good deeds more transparent to travelers, and seeing their sustainability stance resonating more powerfully with customers than in the past.

Supporting the expansion of sustainability best practices throughout the industry, the ATTA has found that businesses attending its events care most about educational content focused on sustainability. At the 2019 Adventure Travel World Summit in Gothenburg, Sweden, a session titled Behavior-Smart Thinking led by Dr. Milena Nikolova explored how research from the fields of behavioral science and neuroscience can be applied in the adventure travel realm, supporting destination and traveler decisionmaking in areas that affect sustainability. The session explored the “endless opportunities” for adjusting the design of products, services and policies based on realistic assumptions about human behavior.

COMPANIES ACTIVATING TRAVELERS The emotional benefits of adventure travel have been well documented, and most adventure travel tour operators and agents understand that the idea of taking a trip that might bring a person back home with the benefit of a new outlook on life is a key motivator for customers. For a few vanguard companies, however, the recognition of this desire for learning and transformation has sparked a new kind of trip — the social impact adventure.

At The Explorer’s Passage, founder and CEO Jeff Bonaldi has found that his climate and sustainability oriented trips sell faster than his other trips despite the higher price tag and longer duration. For example, his trips delivered in partnership with the 2041 Foundation, a climate action organization, to the Arctic and Antarctica cost just under $18,000 and draw youth as well as business leaders from around the world, some of whom conduct fundraising campaigns to make the trip.

Once there, they learn from leaders in climate and environmental science, network, and meet inspiring conservationists such as Jane Goodall and the polar explorer Robert Swan.

December 2019 ■ 11

INDUSTRY FORECAST A PATHWAY TO ACTION In an effort to mobilize the enthusiasm and passion of the adventure travel trade community, already leaders in pioneering sustainability practices in their trips, the ATTA is launching two new programs for 2020 aimed at actively reducing the carbon associated with travel. One is Neutral Together, aimed at supporting small businesses in particular. Participants in the program will be able to easily calculate their carbon emissions and offset them at a reduced price through a bulk purchase negotiated with partner South Pole.

“We hope to get at least 80 companies

participating in the first year,” said Russell Walters, who spearheaded the development of the project at the ATTA. The second program is called Tomorrow’s Air, a collective of travel industry partners and travelers to clean up 8 percent of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Participants in the collective will support direct air capture carbon removal with partner Climeworks in addition to global creative communications and educational efforts.

PARTING THOUGHTS Since the Second International Conference on Climate Change and Tourism in 2007,

Sustainability Is Responsibility

BY TERRY DALE

W

ith more than one billion people traveling internationally each year, the topic of sustainability has grown beyond a catchphrase to an overwhelming call-to-action across the entire travel industry.

There is no denying that travel makes the world a better place. It drives economic progress within local communities and unstable destinations, provides positive cultural exchange and understanding, fosters learning and understanding … the 12

■ December 2019

there has been little coordinated action from the tourism industry to address the role it has played in the problem of climate change. Leading companies are commanding attention and setting an example with progressive policies and proactive work, and travelers are rewarding companies who take their sustainability and climate values to heart and “walk the talk.”

For more information, visit adventuretravel.biz

list goes on. This positive impact, however, needs to be nurtured, especially with the number of international travelers rapidly growing each year. In the USTOA economic impact study by PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) conducted in 2018, tour operator members named “overcrowding” as one of the top three risks that could impact travel over the next three years.

We believe the issue is better defined as sustainable tourism, in that tourism has been and will continue to be a positive influence on a destination’s people, culture and environment. Achieving sustainable tourism – addressing the influx of visitors in peak season, promoting undiscovered destinations, encouraging off-season travel, and awareness of issues related to use of plastics, renewables, and energy usage, among other issues – all are part of this complex initiative.

Our tour operator members are committed to learning more, doing more, and employing actions that will result in real impact. That’s why, as an association, we’ve made sustainability the primary focus of USTOA’s strategic five-year plan. On behalf of our tour operator members, USTOA will

further define our role and position, while supporting our membership in education and action as it relates to a sustainable future.

Earlier this year, sustainable tourism was the subject of USTOA’s 2019 Innovation Lab, a program that engages MBA candidates from Cornell University’s SC Johnson Graduate School of Management in identifying insights most critical for our members’ businesses. The MBA candidates were charged with unmasking the challenges and opportunities specifically related to tourism overcrowding.

The Cornell study revealed the complex effects of unstainable travel while providing insights into how USTOA and the tour operator members can begin to address the issue in order to develop solutions towards a more sustainable future in travel.

This critical knowledge will be used as a springboard to implement our plans.

As a group of leaders working to create stronger communities and cultural exchange, we invite our valued travel advisor partners to join us in building and fostering a more sustainable future. It truly takes a village.

For more information about tours and packaged vacations, visit www.ustoa.com.

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Airlines Aim to Overcome Challenges

BY PERRY FLINT

T

he global airline industry is on track to deliver a record 10th consecutive year of annual profits in 2019, but a combination of factors means the outlook is not quite as bright as it was a year ago. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts the industry will report an aggregate net profit of $28 billion this year, which is a decline compared to earnings of $30 million in 2018. This translates into a net profit margin of around 3.2% and a profit per departing passenger of just a bit over $6.00.

The main culprits behind the lower projections are slowing demand and increasing cost pressures. For example, global passenger traffic rose 3.8% in August compared to the year-ago period, well down on the roughly 8.5% year-overyear growth seen from 2016 to the first quarter of 2018. The bigger story, however, is on the cargo side of the business, where traffic is actually declining in tandem with negative global trade growth, amid wellknown trade tensions and punitive tariffs.

Adding to the challenges are rising costs, including for fuel, labor and infrastructure (airports and air traffic management services). Thus, while industry revenues are currently forecast to climb 6.5% this year, operating expenses are expected to rise LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

by 7.4%. The recent attack on Saudi oil infrastructure, meanwhile, has served as a reminder that the industry is vulnerable to rapid swings in the price of oil.

The industry also remains brutally competitive, as illustrated by the demise of four airlines in the month of September.

But for air travelers, that also means flying continues to be a tremendous bargain. IATA forecasts that the average return fare (before surcharges and tax) in 2019 will be $317, which is down from $327 in 2018 and 62% lower than in 1998, after adjusting for inflation.

Consumers also have more travel choices: the number of unique city pairs served by air in 2019 is forecast to be 22,375, up 118% compared to 1998.

The connectivity provided by aviation is a major contributor to wealth creation.

Aviation supports $2.7 trillion (3.6%) of global GDP and 65.5 million jobs when its contribution to global tourism in included. And the importance of aviation to developing countries is reflected in aviation’s direct links to 15 of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

As the world becomes wealthier, more people want to take advantage of the opportunities that flying provides.

Flying is freedom. It liberates us from the constraints of geography and distance and expands our horizons. In doing so, it empowers us to lead better lives and makes the world a better place. But, as with any human activity, there is an environmental cost. Aviation contributes 2% of global carbon emissions. This contribution has been well in the public spotlight this year, with the emergence of the flight shaming movement in Europe and the “Green New Deal” in the United States. In addition to flying, tourism has itself come under sustained criticism over its environmental impacts. The message is that people should fly less. But flying is not the enemy. Carbon is.

Aviation is serious about environmental sustainability. Emissions from the average journey are half what they were in 1990 and flying today is 17.3% more fuel efficient than a decade ago. Long before this year’s climate protests, the industry was working to mitigate its impact on climate change.

For more than a decade, the industry has had a goal to cap net emissions from 2020. The longer-term target is to cut net carbon emissions 50% by 2050, compared to 2005 levels.

Three years ago, member nations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (CAO) -- the special UN body devoted to civil air transport -- achieved a historic agreement to implement a Carbon Offset and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).

At the 40th ICAO Assembly in September, the commitment was reaffirmed, which will help airlines to achieve carbon-neutral growth from 2020. In addition, ICAO will now start looking at a long-term aspirational goal to cut emissions—so governments and industry will be aligned.

A second issue that came to the forefront in 2019 is achieving gender balance. In September, IATA launched the 25by2025 Campaign to address the industry’s gender imbalance. It is a voluntary program for airlines to commit to increasing female participation at senior levels to at least 25% by 2025. The choice of target helps airlines at any point on the diversity journey participate meaningfully.

And the ultimate goal is to bring the industry to a 50-50 representation.

The airline industry has a long history of overcoming challenges. That successful track record will stand it in good stead as it addresses its environmental and social responsibilities, while continuing to spread the benefits of the Business of Freedom around the globe.

For more information, visit iata.org.

December 2019 ■ 13

INDUSTRY FORECAST

Motorcoach Travel Appeals to Many

BY PETER PANTUSO, CTIS

T

he motorcoach group tour industry is alive and vibrant! In 2018, there were more than 236 million group tour visitors touring the country. That equates to nearly 7 million motorcoach trips and 71 million room nights booked. The reason for this healthy industry is traveling by motorcoach is appealing to multiple generations. Baby Boomers. Generation X. Millennials. Motorcoach travel ticks off many boxes for their travel needs whether it is affordable travel, ease of travel or knowing you are traveling on the greenest form of transportation. There is something appealing about motorcoaches for everyone.

The most significant trend right now is travelers are all about the experience. You may say “of course,” but people want a very personal experience. Whether traveling solo or in a group, they want to feel like this tour was created for them. It is all about personalization. Other considerations, especially with Millennial travelers, is about the environment. Eco travel/green travel is a big hit with them right now. They want to go somewhere natural and where they don’t leave a footprint or some want to go somewhere and volunteer. They also want their companies to be green. So, ditch the plastic one-use water bottles and offer refilling stations enabling customers to feel they are helping the 14

■ December 2019

environment. Another millennial tour trend is bleisure travel. They want to combine work trips and mini-vacations.

Generation X, who are now traveling with their families of either small children or teenagers, want attractions and to get from point A to point B in the least amount of time. Children have limited focus and want to get to the “fun” part of their trip. Good news is that most motorcoaches today are equipped with wi-fi and plug-ins so kids of all ages can be entertained with their gadgets to stream videos or play games. And of utmost importance is convenience. Traveling with the family is stressful enough, they want someone to take the reins and make sure they just need to show up and enjoy.

Baby Boomers want to relax and enjoy during the travel. They like the social aspect of traveling and discovering new places. According to AARP, Baby Boomers plan to take an average of four to five leisure trips a year. They are also spending the most money on travel and they actually like to travel with their families – adult children and grandchildren. They want to create memorable experiences for everyone. And don’t be afraid to offer adventure to boomers. As more people are living healthier lifestyles and are in better shape, these people want to go hiking, kayaking, white-water rafting. Don’t save all the fun stuff for kids!

For all travel groups, local experiences are an expectation these days. People want to do what the locals do – when it comes to eating, drinking, off-the-beaten path entertainment and attractions. Many want to avoid the “tourist trap” areas in cities and live like a local.

Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, low carb, keto, etc., healthy and organic food options are a must. Gone are the days of pigging out while on vacation. People don’t want to gain 20 pounds in a week anymore on vacation. Today’s travelers know that delicious and nutritious are not exclusive

concepts. Demand for excellent cuisine with a view to better nutrition is driving new tourism trends. The modern tourist wants to know that the food they’re eating is as healthy as it is delicious. The organic food movement is also affecting tourism trends, with more eateries and hotels offering organic options. They also want to know that the food they are eating is locally sourced and fresh.

Destinations are changing. While the big cities like New York and Chicago will always be popular spots, more and more people want to experience new places, small towns. They also want to experience places they see on TV. Finally, you need to be plugged in.

Travelers are doing more and more bookings and researching potential vacations online. They want info immediately when requesting costs. This is also leading to last-minute planning. So, they want flexibility and to be able to book trips at the spur of the moment. Google Data shows that travel-related searches for “tonight” or “today” have grown by 150% on mobile devices over the past two years.

Generation Z and Millennials want visual search options. Most of their bookings and trip desires are coming from what they see on Instagram. Everything needs to be “Instagram-worthy.”

The American Bus Association (ABA) is the trade organization of the intercity bus, tour and travel industry with more than 1,000 motorcoach and tour company members in the United States and Canada.

Its members operate charter, tour, regular route, airport express, special operations and contract services. Another 2,800 members are travel and tourism organizations and suppliers of bus products and services who work in partnership with the North American motorcoach industry.

For more information, visit www.buses.org.

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Inbound Travel Industry Changing

BY LISA SIMON

F

or the past few years, we’ve been talking about a decline in international inbound travel to the United States, trying to put our finger on just what’s causing it – is it the strong dollar? A coming recession? Month to month, we watch for signs that inbound travel is rebounding. And each month it’s sort of a mixed bag; some markets up, others down. Overall, it’s clear that inbound travel to the United States has been steadily declining.

According to the U.S. Travel Association’s latest Travel Trends Index, international travel to the United States declined for the fifth consecutive month in September, and it’s expected to decrease by another 0.6 percent over the next six months compared to the same period last year.

Perhaps more important, we’re losing market share in the global travel industry. A recent study from Oxford Economics reported that the U.S. portion of total global travel fell to 12% in 2018 from 14% in 2015, resulting in a loss to the nation’s economy of $59 billion in traveler spending from 14 million international visitors. U.S. market share is expected to further drop to 11% by 2022.

But we can’t point to just one cause for this decline. There are a number of contributing factors, from Brexit causing economic uncertainty in the UK, the U.S.’s LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

largest inbound source market, to the strong U.S. dollar which makes America a costly destination for international travelers. And travel from China, our leading emerging market, has been falling in recent years primarily due to its economic slowdown. That decline is expected to continue with the back and forth trade war between the U.S. and China coupled with China’s government issuing a travel advisory earlier this year warning Chinese travelers about gun violence and other crime in the U.S. While inbound operators and others in the industry brace against these external volatilities, they know the travel industry is resilient. They understand there are risks when dealing with an industry impacted daily by shifts in the global economy, geopolitical concerns, civil unrest and natural disasters. And while it may be a constant challenge to keep up with the ups and downs of the global travel market, inbound operators remain optimistic about their role in the industry.

The vast majority of overseas travelers continue to book their travel to foreign destinations through travel agents, tour operators and DMCs (destination management companies), and those companies need U.S. based partners to fulfill their customer demands.

U.S. suppliers and destinations interested in increasing their share of international visitation should work with inbound operators, particularly when entering new markets, because inbound operators already have established relationships in the markets they serve.

Plus, working with inbound operators allows U.S. suppliers to reach multiple markets more efficiently with greater ROI on their marketing investments.

Inbound operators have the expertise and infrastructure to work with international buyers in their languages and customs, handling contracts, currency exchange

and other business activities that can be risky for novices dealing with international business.

Most leisure visitors to the United States are traveling as FITs (foreign independent travelers), however, a significant number also come in groups. Although international groups are trending toward smaller groups; they generally book inclusive packages as opposed to FITs that might only book a hotel or hotel and attraction. While most groups may be visiting for leisure purposes, groups also come for meetings and conferences. IITA inbound tour companies offer a breadth of experience and expertise in both leisure services and MICE products.

The World Travel and Tourism Council’s latest economic impact research shows travel and tourism’s contribution to world GDP outpaced the global economy for the eighth consecutive year in 2018. So, while there is cause for concern with the U.S. losing market share of the booming global travel business, it’s fair to say that international inbound travel will continue to be a strong driver of economic growth and job creation.

The inbound travel industry will continue to change and evolve as economies ebb and flow and new technologies and connectivity demands continue to disrupt distribution, selling, and traditional marketing techniques.

However, relationships and personalized service will continue to be key factors in growing inbound travel, particularly group travel, and DMOs and suppliers can start building those strong and productive one-on-one relationships with international inbound operators.

The International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) is focused exclusively on inbound international travel to the U.S. and more specifically inbound/receptive tour operators.

Our mission is to grow inbound travel to the USA by providing the best and widest range of product, services and information to the international travel trade.

For more information, visit internationalinboundtravelassociation.org.

December 2019 ■ 15

INDUSTRY SURVEY

2019 LEISURE GROUP TRAVEL

READER INTENTIONS SURVEY

T

he results of Leisure Group Travel’s 2019 Group Intentions survey are in. This marks the fourth year in a row that we have benchmarked the group travel industry. In doing so, we hope to gain insight into those trends that are shaping the market. Thanks to everyone who participated, we hope you enjoy your Diva Travel Bag!

Group trips planned annually

66%

16%

Average number of passengers per trip

29%

31+ 11-30

18%

50%

17%

Under 10

50+ 30 – 49 16 - 29 Under 15

4%

LGT TAKEAWAY: While the majority of leisure group travel organizers are small business (2/3 of respondents indicate they plan less than 10 trips annually), we have seen this number slide by eight percentage points from 2017. Where’s it moving? Large operations planning more than 30 trips, which has increased 4 percentage points from last year alone to an all-time high of 16%.

LGT TAKEAWAY: Group sizes continue to shrink as travelers discover the benefits of smaller group sizes (see article page 18) as their preferred method of travel. The number of groups averaging over 50 passengers per trip has dropped 10% points since 2016.

Average number of nights per trip

Where do your trips go?

Northeast

45% 16% 39%

8+ nights 4-7 nights 1-3 nights

61% LGT TAKEAWAY: Outbound international 54%

Midwest

58%

South 34%

West

45%

Canada

42%

Europe LGT TAKEAWAY: Shorter trips are on the rise, with a fouryear high in the number of readers planning trips of 3 nights or less. Longer trips also made a rebound this year, with 16% of respondents reporting an average trip length of 8+ nights, up 3% points in the last year.

16

■ December 2019

Asia Latin America

12% 17%

travel continues to be strong, especially to Canada and Europe.

Northeast saw a slight increase in activity, while the South and Midwest dropped four percentage points, indicating rotation of offerings by smaller operators.

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Resources used to build trips

Types of trips planned Traditional

86%

Faith-based

Pre-made itineraries

20%

Student/Youth

14%

Competitor tours

26%

Adventure Girlfriend/Guys

48%

Google search

26%

38%

Destination websites

32%

Family/ Multi-generational

39%

Travel/ trade websites

32%

Educational

71%

Trade shows

20%

Cultural

32%

Travel/ trade magazines

18%

Culinary

65%

46%

LGT TAKEAWAY: We’ve seen a dip in the number of groups offering faith-based holidays with 20% being an all-time low. On the rise is girlfriend/guy trips, which topped out this year at 18%, while traditional trips (no specific affinity) are still most popular.

LGT TAKEAWAY: Travel trade magazines and itineraries continue to be the most trusted resources, while Google search and destination websites reached four-year lows in terms of usage.

How do you develop your trips?

Who are your clients?

60+

58%

33% 9%

40 – 59

Plan my own trips Use a tour operator/ receptive A little bit of both

LGT TAKEAWAY: This year saw an all-time high in the number of respondents planning their own trips, while exclusive use of a tour operator to orchestrate details bottomed out at 9%.

88% 33%

19 - 39

17%

Student/ Youth

16%

LGT TAKEAWAY: This question was altered this year to reflect hard age brackets, versus terms like boomers and Gen X that were used previously. With that, we saw a rise in youth travel and a small drop in the senior market.

What would you like to see more of?

Destination features

66%

Themed articles

36%

WANT MORE OPERATIONAL ADVICE

Itineraries Case studies

70% 13% 49%

Sales & marketing advice Operations advice

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

1 IN 5 READERS

18%

LGT TAKEAWAY: In order to tailor our editorial coverage, we ask readers what they’d like to see more of in Leisure Group Travel. Destination features and itineraries continue to be most popular. A new question was asked this year in regards to operational advice, with 1 in 5 readers indicating an interest in this topic.

December 2019 ■ 17

SMALL GROUP TRENDS

THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING

By Jason Paha

A

s the world continues to move at a breakneck pace, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comforting to know a relaxing trip to Belize can be arranged quickly and easily.

Many of us prefer to take our sojourns to Belize, or whatever location we choose, via group travel, as it enables us to share our experiences with friends, family or strangers with pleasant faces.

In recent years though, there has been a budding trend in the group travel market as small group tours are growing in popularity.

18

â&#x2013; December 2019

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

“We use historical data and budgets to estimate true cost,” said Austin. “By amortizing all cost over more travelers, we are able to offer better value. Let’s say you have a couple and they want a guided day trip. They have to hire a guide and cover 100 percent of the cost. With a small group, you might have 12 guests and two guides … essentially amortizing the cost of that guide over six guests.”

“Traveling in small groups helps to keep prices low as we are better able to fit into accommodations, restaurants, etc. that are not limited by a large group size,” said Tamara Olton, global purpose specialist, Midwest Region of G Adventures. “We also have 100 percent guaranteed departures and will never cancel a trip due to low enrollment, so the price is the same whether one person or 16 travel on an escorted trip with G.”

Photo courtesy of Collette Travel

“(Small group tours) are the fastest growing product line at Collette,” said Diana Ditto, director of product design at Collette Travel.

“There’s been steady and continuous growth since the inception of the product line about 10 years ago.”

There are plenty of merits regarding small group travel (generally considered groups of 16 or fewer). Small tours enable travelers to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time, allow travelers to form tighter bonds with fellow adventurers and offer a more sustainable experience that appeals to ecotourists. Small group travel also takes some of the anxiety out of the equation for tour planners as itineraries are often tailored closer to the expectations of the travelers.

“Smaller group tours have a flexibility in terms of navigating a destination faster,” Ditto said. “You are able to get into more local restaurants and there are more activities available to you than with a large group tour. If you want to do a cooking class or a home-hosted dinner or a painting class in front of a painting at the Louvre, that’s easier to do with smaller numbers as opposed to the museum needing to accommodate 40 easels.”

“One hundred percent (the benefit to taking a small group tour) is the guides,” said Dan Austin, president of Austin Adventures. “We maintain a strict six-to-one guest to guide ratio. You are going to get much more interaction with a guide under these conditions vs. say, 15-to-one or higher. ” Whatever the motivation may be, many sightseers are choosing to take their tours in smaller numbers even if it costs a bit more.

“People don’t mind paying a premium for that small group environment,” Ditto said.

“You are usually able to get to places that are a little more local. Usually, local places are less expensive than ones that can accommodate larger group tours. Restaurants, hotels, different museums, things like that, if you are with a smaller group, you can gravitate toward more local off-the-beaten patch products vs. the more touristy ones.”

While patrons don’t mind paying extra for the small-tour experience, tour operators still face the challenge of keeping costs down.

After all, it’s more expensive to host a group of 16 than a group of 60 with the fixed costs being spread out over fewer people.

Small group tours are growing in popularity.

“You just have to think more creatively,” Ditto said. “One of the benefits of traveling in small groups is it’s easier to use pubic transportation. We do that a lot with explorations.

Buses, trains and also walking tours of cities with an average of five to 18 people is a lot easier than if you are there with a full tour coach. Smaller groups have more options which can open up the pricing. If you take a cooking class, there are more cooking schools that can accommodate 20 people vs. 40 people, so you have more to choose from.”

ADVENTURE TRAVEL While not necessarily a synonym for small group travel, adventure travel is often the preferred excursion method for smaller groups.

“G Adventures does small group adventure travel around the world, but adventure to us doesn’t mean adrenaline, it means immersion,” said Olton. “Our trips are designed to help our travelers feel like participants in a destination rather than passive observers. We curate unique itineraries and incorporate as much local interaction as possible. We want our travelers to feel like they are a part of the places they visit.”

“The accepted and often used name (for small group travel) is adventure travel,” Austin said. “We expend on that with small group, high touch, fully supported, active adventures.”

And he’s not the only one. According to 2018 survey results from the Travel Leaders Group and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, 86 percent of survey respondents from the travel agent sector said they’ve experienced growth in their adventure travel sales over the past three years. One company that exemplifies this growing popularity is Under30Experiences, a group travel company for 21- to 35-year-olds. It was recently named to the 2019 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America and has grown 311 percent over a three-year period, making it the fastest-growing group travel company in the country with at least $2 million in revenue.

While those numbers suggest adventure travel is strictly a young man and woman’s game, the aforementioned survey’s respondents say otherwise. According to the survey’s respondents, the average age of adventure travelers in the 29-40 age range vs. the 41-50 age range differed by only one percentage point while a robust 22 percent of adventure travelers fell into the 51-60 age bracket.

“We run the whole spectrum of ages,” Olton said. “Starting in 2020, we will be working with National Geographic to run National Geographic Journeys Family Adventures where the focus is on children and their families. Our regular escorted trips are not capped by age. While our average traveler age in the U.S. tends to be between 48-54, 65 percent of our travelers are above the age of 40. So, we truly do have the whole age spectrum as our target traveler.”

When it comes to small group tours and adventure travel, age truly is just a number and not a limitation, which is excellent news for tour operators.

December 2019 ■ 19

Smoky Mountain 2020 EDITION

TOUR GUIDE

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO!

Pete Smith TourSmokies.com

Log roll is one of 13 competitions.

Photo courtesy of Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show & Adventure Park

For centuries, people have been coming to these mountains for two reasons. First, the inspiring beauty of God’s creation.

The peaks and vistas of Mount LeConte are obvious but the coves and meadows here in our mountains make a haven for wildlife and explorer alike. Sunrises and sunsets appear to emanate and descend into the ground itself. Purity and sustenance are bountiful.

Then there are the people. Understanding our connection to the land is necessary to understand the people of the Smoky Mountains. No one leaves here unchanged. We like to think it is a change for the better. Some of us planted roots here and now like a great cruise ship welcome people aboard week in and week out. Though we may fuss about traffic on occasion, we know that people come to our area because they love the way the mountains make you feel. Whether it is serene next to a mountain stream or excited enough to get up and dance to blazing fiddle, these mountains make you want to shout and sing. They make you want to try something new and different.

I suppose I can’t explain how it might make you feel, but my guess is you’ll like it enough to come back.

Whether you are here for the mountains, music, people or fun.

You’ll find it in these mountains. I’m so glad you are here.

Thank you for visiting our mountains and our people.

Vista Gardens Sunset

Photo courtesy of SkyLift Park

Welcome to the Smoky Mountains!

Photo courtesy of Anakeesta

WELCOME LETTER

Grand Opening of the new SkyBridge

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

Cover Photos Courtesy of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Smoky Mountain Resorts, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, Titanic Museum Attraction, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, Dollywood® Theme Park, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show.

3

GETTING HERE iStock.com/Denys

Petersburg

VIRGINIA

Renfro Valley

KENTUCKY Nashville

TENNESSEE

Abingdon

Pigeon Forge Maggie Valley

NORTH CAROLINA Asheville

Chattanooga

Muscle Shoals

Birmingham

ALABAMA

Atlanta

SOUTH CAROLINA

GEORGIA

Myrtle Beach

Coming or going from the Smokies, there are great destinations to visit Regardless of where your travels originate and end, there’s plenty to experience along the way.

Abingdon music from the Barter Theater to the Crooked Road is awesome. Atlanta is proudly tied to Martin Luther King, Jr., while the culinary scene is truly international. Birmingham’s civil rights past is a must-see experience while Muscle Shoals’ recording history is a great story. Louisville bourbon and Churchill Downs are synonymous. The drive to Maggie Valley through the Great Smoky Mountains is great, but just the beginning of the fun. You do not want to miss the surf, sand and sounds of Myrtle Beach. Delve into Nashville’s historic homes by day and discover the music style of your choice each evening. The Renfro Valley Entertainment Center truly is “Kentucky’s Country Music Capital.” And for a spiritual experience, a visit to the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum should be on your bucket list.

Miles to Pigeon Forge From: Abingdon, VA....................................................123 miles

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Birmingham, AL............................................. 292 miles

3 Welcome to the Smoky Mountains!

Chattanooga, TN............................................. 147 miles

6 Here We Grow Again

Maggie Valley, NC............................................ 57 miles

9 Two Faith-Based Events for 2020

Myrtle Beach, SC............................................392 miles

12 Showtime in the Smokies Itinerary 14 Sing Smokies Summer Spectacular Itinerary 4

Asheville, NC...................................................... 96 miles Atlanta, GA......................................................... 147 miles

Louisville, KY.....................................................281 miles Muscle Shoals, AL...........................................315 miles Nashville, TN.....................................................215 miles Renfro Valley, KY.............................................154 miles The Ark Creation Museum/ Petersburg, KY................................................294 miles

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

Be driven

by joy.

Inspire miles of smiles for your tour group with hundreds of unique attractions conveniently located in one beautiful mountain town.

Stunning views, shows, Dollywood, down-home cooking, arts, crafts and much more make us a destination to remember.

PI G E O N FO R G E TO U R S .C O M 1- 8 0 0 -2 8 5 -75 57

PFT002049_Mrr_LeisureGroupTrvl-Dec2019_7.5x4.75.indd 1

10/1/19 10:16 AM

Here We Grow Again

F

rom new attractions and entertainment to accommodations and dining options, 2019 saw expanded Smoky Mountain offerings with even more to come. “2019 was a great year for Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains and we’re ready to welcome even more groupfriendly hotels, restaurants, attractions and theaters in 2020,” said Joy McNealy, CTIS senior sales manager for the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. Here are just a few new attractions to gather your interest.

Gatlinburg

Sometimes the journey is half the fun.

From Downtown Gatlinburg, you can take the Chondola or 45-passenger Ridge Rambler to Anakeesta. You’ll arrive at Firefly Village filled with quaint shops, dining options, a botanical garden and truly panoramic views. Firefly Village is your gateway to adventure including racing ziplines, the Treetop Skybridge, North America’s longest tree-based bridge, the Rail Runner Mountain

6

Photo courtesy of Anakeesta

There are no growing pains as Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are each adding new, soon-to-be tour & travel favorites to their lineup

The new Treetop SkyBridge Coasters and a whimsical tree house village connected by bridges of varying challenge levels. New restaurants and expanded retail space will be opening in spring 2020. anakeesta.com Since 1954, SkyLift Park has offered Gatlinburg’s best views and most memorable experience. It got even better in 2019 with the opening of the spectacular new SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America stretching 680 feet. Also, the expansive new SkyDeck overlooking Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains is perfect for catching a sunset, or just relaxing on the top of Crockett Mountain. gatlinburgskylift.com

Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area added 250-foot lanes for summer tubing. More than 100 rare pinball and retro arcade games are housed at the Pinball Museum at the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Gatlinburg’s Tennessee Cider Company offers the sweetest ciders and southern hospitality. The Goodwater Winery Gatlinburg offers the vineyards unique and locally made blends.

Specializing in craft beer, craft pizza and cold brew nitro coffee, Gatlinburg Brewing Company is located downtown.

Blake Shelton’s Ole Red Gatlinburg restaurant is now open, as is Local Attraction Gastropub. Located in the marketplace, Cookie Dough Bliss is 2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

where you can satisfy your sweet tooth.

Slug in the Village shops features gifts and souvenirs by local artists, designers and makers. Paying tribute to the Appalachian Trail and the Gatlinburg mountain setting, Appy Lodge offers a truly local feel.

Pigeon Forge

Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Mountain Mile is a major development as a new retail, entertainment, attractions and dining destination. Construction of the Tower Shops retail space is underway with a variety of upscale retail partners, including premier national brands and local shops committed to 2020 openings. REI Coop and Appalachian Apparel company are just a few retailers committed. New dining options at Mountain Mile will be Cream & Sugar Sweet Shop, Currahee Winery, Mountain Rifle Coffee Company, while Junction 35 began serving late October. Already open and centered in the Tower Shops, the Mountain Monster features three rides from a 200-foot tower. mountainmilepigeonforge.com When the Dawson and McGraw families square off in 13 competitive logger events, there’s sure to be real completion among world-class lumberjacks at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show.

This authentic outdoor show performs regardless of the weather with the lumberjacks outside and spectators in a climate-controlled grandstand.

The adjacent all new Lumberjack Adventure features the Flying Ox Zipline Roller Coaster, High Woodsman Challenge, Logger Sports and Timber Towers. lumberjackfeud.com The newest way to see the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is on a guided excursion with Pink Jeep Tours.

For the first time in its 60-year history, Pink Jeep Tours has expanded east from the desert southwest. The expansion offers a number of guided tour options in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—the most visited national park in the United States. Pink Jeep Tours offers group rates on tours.

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

Groups will learn of history, geology, flora, and fauna from a Pink Jeep Tours certified interpretive guide. The tour of Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail takes guests on ecosystem changes equivalent to drive from Georgia to Maine on your 3,000-feet climb to Newfound Gap. Groups will experience some of the most incredible views in the nation along Foothills Parkway and learn the story of the decades-long project. Each tour concludes with a thrilling off-road experience on private land, designed and built by Pink Adventure Tours.

“We’re excited to be part of the Pigeon Forge Community. Groups of all ages will enjoy their guided experience through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the 4x4 adventure on private land,” said Jodi O’Gara, sales manager. pinkadventuretours.com The Big Show came to Pigeon Forge in October with music and comedy

7

Photo courtesy of Pink Adventure Tours

A thrilling off-road ride on private property concludes each tour. production and an uncommon twist.

Arrows are flying through the theater.

Silverbowshow.com The Buttonwillow Civil War Theater is no longer a dinner theater at its new location on the Parkway,

8

but it’s still perfect for groups that love history and like to laugh.

Buttonwillowcivilwartheater.com Plenty of new attractions were added in 2019 and there’s still more to come.

The Flying Ox has opened and is considered the first cable-to-rail zipline rollercoaster. If you’re ready to ride, Eaglerider Rentals and Tours offers discounts for as few as four. The Escape Rooms at Craven Golf Club pits your team against the clock with clues to direct your escape.

The Rowdy Bear Ridge Adventure Park has opened in Pigeon Forge with a 500-plus-foot year-round tubing hill and the first Alpine Flyer laser gun coaster.

The Micro Wrestler’s Federation has found a home at the Microtorium bringing wrestlers fewer than five feet to the ring.

Holgate Virtual Reality is open at TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena.

Santa’s Haus, a 2,000-square-feet Christmas themed attraction opened in plenty of time for Christmas.

Sevierville

With a summer opening planned, Sevierville’s newest attraction, Soaky Mountain Waterpark, will be 50 acres of water fun. Soaky Mountain will feature a first-of-its-kind water coaster, plenty of waterslides, a winding wave river and a 35,000 square foot wave pool capable of generating waves up to six feet high and more. soakymountainwaterpark.com The Historic Central Hotel is scheduled to open in downtown Sevierville in February 2020. Oak Haven Resort is adding additional luxury cabins and The Resort at Governor’s Crossing recently opened 67 new condo units.

Aubrey’s Restaurant has opened on Dolly Parton Parkway with steaks, seafood and fresh local vegetables on the menu. Local Eatery & Grill is all about authentic with a great menu and live music. Farmer’s Market concept Ogle Brothers General Store offers local jams and honey and recently added a clothing line.

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

SPECIAL EVENTS TAKE THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS TO

another level

Whether it’s the magnitude of the Smoky Mountains, the wholesome family attractions or simply the warmth and hospitality of the people, faith-based groups have always been comfortable in the area

Dollywood Wild Eagle The Isaacs

Cana’s Voice

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

F

or 2020, two major events will provide even more wonderful memories for attendees. The inaugural Sing Smokies A Smoky Mountain Choral Festival will be held three amazing days, June 2, 3 and 4. Then, from September 28-30, Dr. James Merritt will bring his energy and knowledge as a keynote speaker at the National Quartet Convention Premier Experience.

The June midweek Spring Choral Festival provides adult choirs and churches the opportunity to get firsthand mentoring from world-class worship leaders.

The highlight for each choir might be the taping for television of their live performance the final evening.

Before that closing event, there are wonderful activities awaiting the choirs. Upon arrival in Pigeon Forge and checking into the host hotel, you’ll depart for Sevierville’s First Baptist Church. Choirs will be

9

introduced to the choir clinicians they’ll be working with for the next two days.

Mike Speck is a gospel musician and ordained minister who travels with a gospel music trio. Speck has served as minister of music at churches in Virginia and North Carolina and was the choir director for the Southern Baptist

10

Convention in 1988. Speck and his wife Faye arrange music for church choirs and nine of their choral collections have been nominated for Dove Awards. In 2014, they were nominated and received the Dove Award for Best Choral Collection.

Cliff Duren’s first calling took him to Woodstock, Georgia after earning his

Masters Degree of Church Music. His music service led him to Tennessee in 2012 where he served as Minister of Music and Worship at The Church at Station Hill and as Associate Worship Minister at Brentwood Baptist Church.

Today, Duren is Senior Minister of Music and Worship returning to First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Georgia. Duren also arranges, orchestrates and produces music resources for various church music publishers and Christian artists. He is a two-time Dove Award winner.

From six seasons of Fox’s hit series Glee, to Lady Gaga’s Super Bowl halftime show, Tim Davis’ work spans the industry in every direction. If you’ve been to a Disney theme park, played a video game, bought a pop album, seen a TV show or commercial or even a film in the past 20 years, you’ve likely heard Tim’s voice or heard one of his vocal arrangements.

The evening ends with a special

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

concert by The Isaacs. This multiaward-winning family group based in Henderson, Tennessee, has been performing for 35 years. Playing their own acoustic instruments and joined by other band members, The Isaacs have a distinctive style. The tight family harmony of vocalist mother Lily Isaacs and siblings Sonya Isaacs Yeary and Ben Isaacs and Rebecca Isaacs Bowman blends with the contemporary instrumentation so popular with all audiences.

Tuesday morning begins with a return to First Baptist Church Sevierville for three sessions conducted by your choir technicians Mike Speck, Cliff Duren and musical guests, The Isaacs. After lunch with a local comedian, it’s off to Dollywood for an afternoon of free time. Dollywood offers visitors 40 world-class rides, highenergy entertainment and unique artisans.

Begin your day with breakfast at your host hotel before session four for hands-on instruction with both Mike Speck and Cliff Duren. Rehearsals follow beginning late morning and continue to early afternoon.

Choirs have free time for the afternoon before the evening’s public concert and live taping of the show.

Dr. James Merritt the 2020 National Quartet Convention.

The 2020 lineup of entertainers was not available at publishing, but could feature performers such as Jim & Melissa Brady, Hoppers, Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet and many others.

Start your day with a deluxe mountain breakfast, included in your package, followed by a morning devotional with a special guest speaker. Your morning

also includes a main stage message by Dr. Merritt. The afternoon features a Four Member National Quartet Hall of Fame Induction and benefit concert.

There’s free time this afternoon and you may want to visit The Island. There are gift shops, cafes and restaurants, and a Dancing Water Fountain Display set to music every hour. For a birds-eye view of the area, try The Wheel rising 200 feet above the city. Tonight, you’ll have VIP Seating for the NQC Main Stage performances.

After another wonderful breakfast, your day will start at Dollywood with an inspirational message given by Dr. Merritt.

After Dr. Merritt’s message, the park is yours for the day with 40 rides, live shows and crafts. The Southern Gospel Hall of Fame is a must-see. Also included with today’s events is an exclusive to NQC VIP attendees, a meet & greet with Dr. Merritt & NQC Performers. toursmokies.com

************

Usher out summer and welcome fall at the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, your host venue for a dozen big names in gospel individual and group performances at an NQC Premier Experience, a VIP Event with Dr. James Merritt.

A popular and requested speaker, Dr. Merritt is the featured speaker for Touching Lives, a nationwide television ministry. Dr. Merritt has pastored in Kentucky and Mississippi and is now senior pastor at Cross Pointe Church in Duluth, Georgia. He’s published several books and served two years as President of the Southern Baptist Conventions.

He’s also served as chairman of the SBC Executive Committee and president of the SBC Pastor’s Conference.

Conference-goers will stay at the Country Cascades Resort Hotel and enjoy a special VIP Welcome Reception. You’ll have VIP seating for the opening night of 2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

11

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

SHOWTIME IN THE SMOKIES

There are so many shows and theaters to choose from that we think you should try doing everything. This three-night package includes a show every evening plus one in the morning, one matinee, The Titanic Museum and a full day at Dollywood!

Duration: 4 Days, Spring/Summer/Fall

DAY 1

• Pigeon Forge • Dolly’s Pirate Voyage Dinner Show

yer favorite seaside songs, amazing balancing acts, fantastic juggling, live animals, audience participation and more.

At the Pirates Voyage Dinner Show, you join Captain Blackbeard, the most famous pirate to ever sail the seven seas, and his quartermaster Calico Jack as they lead the Crimson and Sapphire crews in an epic battle for lost treasure on land, on deck, in water and high above full-sized pirate ships in a 15-foot-deep indoor hideaway lagoon!

• Magic Beyond Belief • Dollywood • Dolly’s Stampede Dinner Show

live entertainment on multiple stages. Master Craftsmen fills it with craft shops where you’ll find live demonstrations.

There’s a festival with each season, a train ride, an American Eagle habitat, roller coasters and rides, a Dolly museum and more.

Tonight after a day in the park, your group will enjoy Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner and Show; a fun-filled, action-packed extravaganza that everyone should experience, perfect for families, friends and groups of any size! Enjoy the comedy and musical talent of Bluegrass and Country band, Mountain Ruckus.

Only Dolly Parton’s Stampede brings you this diverse mix of musical talent of Bluegrass and Country in such a family-friendly atmosphere.

Arrive in Pigeon Forge. Check into your Pigeon Forge hotel for a three-night stay.

Tonight, you celebrate the Pirate Spirit with fun and adventure at Dolly Parton’s Pirates Voyage Dinner Show.

Before the show starts enjoy a fun, interactive experience in Pirates Village! Thar be a real pirate sing-a-long of all

DAY 2

After breakfast at the host hotel, your morning includes UNICORNS! TIGERS! MERMAIDS! It’s a special tribute to Barnum and Bailey’s Circus!

Darren Romeo brings magic and music together for an incredible show performed daily at The Smoky Mountain Opry Theater!

The only protégé of Master Illusionists Siegfried and Roy, Darren’s show has magical illusions, musical tributes, levitations, and a breathtaking moment when a 650-pound white tiger named Hollywood, magically appears on stage!

This is a full day at Dollywood theme park. Like its namesake Dolly Parton, it delivers great

12

DAY 3

• Smoky Mountain National Park • Ole Smoky Moonshine • Titanic Museum • Country Tonite

After breakfast this morning, a local guide escorts you deep into Smoky Mountain National Park on a narrated sightseeing tour. Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park. At the end of your tour, you visit Gatlinburg and tour Ole Smoky Moonshine.

Your afternoon featured attraction is The Titanic Museum, a two-story museum shaped like the RMS Titanic. It is built half-scale to the original ship.

Tonight dinner is included at either the Applewood Farmhouse, or Grill. All meals are served with their signature Applewood Julep, apple fritters and homemade apple butter.

Then you will head to the Country Tonite Theater for an evening show. In this fast-paced production, you will enjoy a variety of dynamic singing and dancing, sidesplitting comedy, powerful gospel, and American patriotism. From the strong talent of the youth performers, to the experienced veterans of the Country Tonite stage and song, the love of God, family and country resonates throughout the show.

DAY 4

• Departure Day

After breakfast, depart for home.

CONTACT: Tour Smokies.com https://toursmokies.com/showtime-inthe-smokies/ 877-687-7622

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

From the moment you walk in our doors, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there to make you feel welcome. Our friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and thoughtful amenities will keep you on top of your game. You can book confidently knowing youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to get the job done in our meeting and work spaces, refresh at our on-site restaurant or bar, and stay active at the gym or pool. All while getting the support and space needed to succeed.

Holiday Inn Knoxville West Cedar Bluff 9134 Executive Park Dr Knoxville, TN 37923 865-693-1011 or visit us at www.HolidayInn.com/cedarbluff

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Sing Smokies Summer Spectacular

This deluxe tour features the Best of the Smokies including Dollywood, a dinner theater, The Titanic Museum Tour and Ripley’s Aquarium. Just to make sure we have enough excitement for you, we have an All-Star Gospel Concert with music by The Isaacs, David Phelps, Cana’s Voice, Doug Anderson of Signature Sound, Avalon’s Jody McBrayer and a Mass Choir of hundreds.

Duration: 4 Days, June 2-5, 2020

• Pigeon Forge • Dinner & Show

DAY 1

DAY 2

Arriving in Pigeon Forge, you check into your first-class hotel for a three-night stay. Tonight, enjoy a dinner show of your choice from Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, and Dolly Parton’s Pirates Voyage.

• Ripley’s Aquarium • Titanic Museum • Smoky Mountain Opry

Start your day with the hotel’s delicious breakfast then depart for Gatlinburg to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.

With over 10,000 exotic sea creatures in 350 individual species there are more fish in this aquarium than there are people living in Gatlinburg. Traveling on moving glide paths, visitors enter the ocean realm and come face to face with thousands of fascinating fishes and menacing sea creatures.

When you’re done at the aquarium explore & unwind with free time this afternoon strolling the sidewalks and shops of Historic Downtown Gatlinburg.

Next, enjoy a delicious lunch at TGI Friday’s. TGI Friday’s reputation as the best corner bar in town started in Manhattan in 1965—and it continues in Gatlinburg, where they have been serving up good times since 2005.

After lunch, enjoy a tour at the Titanic Museum. Each day, Titanic Museum provides a gateway to 1912, where firstclass maids and a variety of officers and crewmembers bring the stories of the fabled ship and its fascinating passengers

14

to life by retelling their stories in vivid, dramatic detail. The priceless artifacts throughout the museum shed additional light on the lives of those passengers and crewmembers that sailed on Titanic’s maiden voyage.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at the alwaysdelicious Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant. At Applewood, all meals are served with their signature Applewood Julep, Apple Fritters and Homemade Apple Butter.

After dinner, enjoy the evening at the Smoky Mountain Opry Theater.

The Smoky Mountain Opry is the area’s largest musical variety show featuring “America’s Ultimate Variety Show.” Showcasing the most talented collection of singers, dancers, comedians, magicians, jugglers and incredible aerialists, the Smoky Mountain Opry is an amazing show that is not to be missed.

State-of-the-art special effects including lasers, pyrotechnics, performers that fly overhead, giant video screens, concert quality lighting and sound and you have just a few of the many aspects that will take your breath away. From country to pop, comedy or Broadway, the Music Mansion Theater has it all.

• Day at Dollywood • Sing Smokies All-Star Concert

DAY 3

After breakfast, depart for Dollywood and enjoy spending your day in the park.

The Dollywood Theme Park is nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

While in the park enjoy live stage shows, the Dolly museum, go on a train ride, view and learn about the American Eagle habitat, and much more. Plus, watch master craftsmen and artisans at work as they proudly continue the centuries-old tradition of hand-making crafts with daily demonstrations.

This evening, enjoy a one-time AllStar Event with music and performances

by The Isaacs, David Phelps, Cana’s Voice including Taranda Greene, Doug Anderson of Signature Sound, Avalon’s Jody McBrayer, Mass Choir of hundreds directed by Mike Speck, Cliff Duren & Tim Davis, producer of the Super Bowl LI half-time show with Lady Gaga. Davis is also the music arranger of Fox’s Glee as well as being the vocal coach for several celebrities including Celine Dion, Barbara Streisand & Josh Groban.

• Depart

DAY 4

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart for home.

CONTACT: Tour Smokies.com toursmokies.com/sing-smokiessummer-spectacular/ 877-687-7622

2020 Smoky Mountain Tour Guide

Visit NC Smokies is the place you want to gather. With wonderful museums like the Shelton House and Shook Museum to the vibrant Hart Theatre, there is plenty to see and do. We encourage you to come shop in Downtown Waynesville or Maggie Valley and relax at Lake Junaluska.

Our farm-to-table restaurants will be ready and waiting for you as you explore Haywood County.

Haywood County, North Carolina

Gather in the NC Smokies Day 1

Arrive early in the afternoon at the Shelton House, which is a must for anyone intrigued by the heritage of Haywood County. Built in 1875, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Housed in and around the Shelton House, the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts features comprehensive exhibits of 19th century crafts.

Afterwards, head over to Downtown Waynesville to spend some time strolling down historic Main Street and visiting the many specialty stores that line both sides. Mast General Store is the emporium with a little bit of something for everyone. If you want to take a treat home for that furry friend, stop by Smoky Mountain Dog Bakery. While downtown, stop at Boojum Brewing Company to sample a locally made beer. Finally, if you need an afternoon pickme-up, stop by Sunburst Market for some farmto-table flavors.

For dinner, head over to Maggie Valley and J. Arthurs Restaurant for some prime rib and their famous gorgonzola cheese salad.

Day 2 VISIT NC SMOKIES Ben Wilder ben@visitncsmokies.com 800-334-9036 VisitNCSmokies.com

SMTG2020_Itin_NCSmokies.indd 15

Begin the day with breakfast at your hotel.

Then head out to explore the Western North Carolina Quilt Trail, stopping in Clyde to tour the Shook Museum and right next door in Canton the

Colonial Theatre, which opened in 1932.

Lunch at the Jukebox Junction Restaurant & Soda Shoppe will take you back to the 1950s and ‘60s. Of course, no lunch is complete until you order your hand-spun milkshake. Afterwards head over to Lake Junaluska for a tour of the World Methodist Council Museum or an afternoon stroll around the lake on the 2.3-mile walking trail.

In the evening, enjoy a performance at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, known by the locals as the “HART.” This year-round theater features productions from classics like Macbeth to Broadway musicals like Hello Dolly.

Day 3 Begin the day by visiting Catalooche Ranch for breakfast with a local storyteller, and since it borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s the ideal location for extraordinary mountain views.

Afterwards, head through Maggie Valley for a stop at Elevated Mountain Distillery and a genuine whiskey experience. The 11,000-sq.-ft. facility includes the distillery, barrel storage, bottling area, product development and gift shop.

Finally, grab some last-minute gifts at Maggie Mountaineer Crafts, where they have endless crafts, delicious homemade fudge and a creekside picnic area for relaxing.

11/21/19 10:04 AM

Latest

& Greatest

Daytona Speedway Renovation Complete

FLORIDA — Daytona International Speedway has completed a $400 million renovation and offers a year-round 30-minute All-Aces, or VIP Speedway Track Tour. A walk across the pedestrian bridge is a million square feet of shops, restaurants and hotel accommodations.

Daytona Speedway

Nick Cave Exhibition on View in Jackson

MISSISSIPPI — The Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson presents Nick Cave: Feat., an exhibition of 17 works examining the artist’s socially engaged practice. On view through February 16, the survey of Nick Cave’s (b. 1959) work includes sculpture, video, and installations providing visitors with a range of immersive interactions with color and sound that bring to light urgent issues of our times. Among the works featured are 10 of his signature soundsuits—a series of anthropomorphic sculptures made from of a variety of repurposed everyday objects and materials that can be worn or displayed.

They are based on the scale of his body. (msmuseumart.org)

Audubon Pilgrimage to be Held in March LOUISIANA — The annual Audubon Pilgrimage, which will be held in St. Francisville in March, 2020, celebrates a southern spring in St. Francisville, the glorious garden spot of Louisiana’s English Plantation Country. For four decades the sponsoring West Feliciana Historical Society, its docents resplendent in authentic 1820s costumes, has thrown open the doors of significant historic structures to commemorate the tenure there of artist-naturalist John James Audubon as LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

SOUTH REGION

he painted a number of his famous bird folios. (westfelicianahistory.org/pilgrimage.html)

Carnival Cruises From Mobile

ALABAMA — Carnival Cruise Line and the City of Mobile have signed a three-year extension that will keep the ship sailing from Mobile through November 2022. The Carnival Fantasy will continue her four- and five-day cruises to Mexico from the Alabama Cruise Terminal, bringing 170,000 guests to Mobile annually. Many guests extend their vacation with pre- or post-cruise land stays in the Mobile area. The Carnival Fantasy departs Mobile on four-day “long-weekend” cruises to Cozumel and on Mondays and Saturdays on five-day voyages to Cozumel and Costa Maya or Progreso. Two longer-length Carnival Journeys voyages will operate roundtrip from Mobile—a 10-day cruise featuring a partial transit of the Panama Canal (September 14-24, 2020) and

a 10-day Caribbean cruise September 13-23, 2021. (www.carnival.com)

Island in Pigeon Forge

Ride System to Open in Pigeon Forge

TENNESSEE — The Island in Pigeon Forge flying theater attraction is a stateof-the-art ride system featuring national wonders and landmarks and is set to open early 2020. The Mountain Mile, featuring retail, amusements and dining, will open anchored by the Mountain Monster coaster and four different rides.

MAKE YOUR PLAY

TO GETAWAY GET THE MOST FOR YOUR GROUP

For more information on incentives for you and your group or to book your group, call toll free 1-877-778-8138 email: CheMotorcoachTm@caesars.com

CHEROKEE, NC

MURPHY, NC

Must be 21 or older to enter casino floor and to gamble, and must present a valid state or federal photo ID upon request. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. ©2019, Caesars License Company, LLC.

December 2019 ■ 37

SOUTH

REGION Mallory-Neely House

7

OUTSTANDING HISTORIC TENNESSEE

HOMES

Across the Volunteer State in metro and rural areas, mansions and humble homes tell the state’s remarkable story

S

By Dave Bodle ome Tennessee historic homes served as headquarters for both Union and Confederate armies.

Others became battlefield hospitals during the American Civil War. Others pay tribute to Tennessee’s two presidents of the United States while others reflect Tennessee’s role in our country’s growth. Here are seven that are sure to enhance any itinerary.

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■ December 2019

1

MALLORY-NEELY HOUSE

Since 1852, the MalloryNeely House has been part of Memphis’ “Millionaire’s Row.” Closed for seven years, the home reopened in 2013. The 25-room home is the only historic property in Memphis to retain most of its original furnishings. Stained glass windows from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and hand-painted ceilings

and parquet flooring accent the home.

The double parlor on the first floor is lavish, while the second floor showcases family photographs and daughter Francis Mallory Morgan’s art and sculpture.

Tours include information about the families who built the house and those who enlarged and furnished the home. Group rates are available. memphismuseums.org/historichouses/about/mallory-neely-house >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

2

FALCON REST MANSION & GARDENS

Sitting in the center of the Nashville-Knoxville-Chattanooga triangle, you’ll find McMinnville, Tennessee and Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens. In 1896, Clay Faulkner gave his wife Mary an offer she couldn’t resist. He promised to build her “the grandest mansion in Tennessee” if she’d move to McMinnville, where his woolen mill was located. Mary said yes. The mansion’s history has taken some turns, but for the past 25 years, they’ve been welcoming tour groups with delicious food and fun entertainment.

Interactive shows that make stars of the people are available at lunchtime or dinner.

Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens

The original show “Murder at the Mansion” is set in 1897 and involves the visitors as real people. They are at the mansion to celebrate the opening of Clay and Mary Faulkner’s new home, but something goes wrong. In “Ghosts at the Mansion” guests become

ghosts of previously living people. It promises more laughter than fright. Based on 1863 McMinnville history, “The Honeymoon Ball of General John Hunt Morgan” requires everyone in the audience to assume a role, including Morgan’s 21-year-old bride. falconrest.com

3

Photo courtesy of Mike O’Neill/KnoxTours.net

WESTWOOD

In Knoxville, the circa 1890 Westwood was like Falcon Rest in which a “wedding promise” was offered from John Edwin Lutz to his wife, Ann Adelia Armstrong Lutz. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Historic Westwood is a rare example of Queen Anne and Richardson Romanesque Age architecture and interiors.

Visitors can enjoy a complimentary tour led by trained docents.

In addition to a sense of the Gilded Age, a highlight of the tour is Adelia’s Studio consisting of one long room with a high ceiling and skylights. Her paintings are part of the collections at the Knoxville Museum of Art, the East Tennessee History Center and the State Museum. hhknoxville.org

Westwood

4

ANDREW JACKSON’S HERMITAGE

After their marriage, Andrew and Rachel Jackson lived in Nashville and in 1804 purchased the 425-acre farm that would become The Hermitage. Jackson began lucrative businesses at nearby Clover Bottom on the Stones River. It wasn’t long before he left his Superior Court judgeship to focus on The Hermitage and his Clover Bottom enterprises. The original structure consisted of eight rooms, four on each floor.

While Jackson was president of the United States in 1831, the mansion went through a major renovation. Four years later, fire heavily damaged the house. The redesign both inside and out is what visitors see today.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

Many historians view The Hermitage as the best-preserved early U.S. presidential home.

Tours begin at the “Andrew Jackson: Born for a Storm” $1.1 million exhibit. The story is told of Jackson’s humble orphan beginnings through his presidency. Also in the Andrew Jackson Visitor Center is the exhibit “First Hermitage: Worlds Apart, Side by Side” which tells the remarkable story of the future president. The new interactive visitor experience “The Duel-Art of the Southern Gentleman” tells the story and relives the event of Jackson’s duel with Charles Dickinson.

Enhancements to the group’s tour are available, including an audio tour, multimedia tour, private tour guide and presidents tour. thehermitage.com

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

December 2019 ■ 39

5

OAKLANDS MANSION

Murfreesboro and Oaklands Mansion are just a short drive on I-24 southeast of Nashville.

The stunning mansion and charming city are closely tied together. Hardy Murfree purchased the property where Oaklands stands in 1798. Upon his death with no will, the tract was awarded to Murfree’s daughter in 1814. Dr. James Maney and Sally Hardy Murfree Maney moved from North Carolina four years later. Dr. Maney’s main source of income was the buying, selling and trading of land and enslaved individuals. Upon the death of Dr. and Sally Maney, the eldest son Lewis and Rachel Cannon Maney took over the management of Oakland.

From 1954, the house stood vacant and was purchased by the city of Murfreesboro in 1958. Plans were to demolish the house and develop the property but the Oaklands

Oaklands Mansion

Association convinced the city to allow them to repair and renovate to restore Oaklands Mansion to its previous glory. In 1974, Oaklands was placed on the National

6

PRESIDENT JAMES K. POLK HOME & MUSEUM

Just 45 miles southwest of Nashville off I-65 is Columbia, Tennessee and the President James K Polk Home & Museum.

The 11th president of the United States made significant contributions to the young nation.

He added three states to the Union, began the United States Naval Academy, issued the first postage stamp and commissioned the Washington Monument. From a humble hard-working beginning on the Tennessee frontier, Polk graduated from North Carolina University. He received legal training, served as a Tennessee Senate clerk and established a law practice in Columbia. He was elected to the Tennessee Legislature at 27, married Sarah Childress and was elected to the U.S. Congress at 29, serving 14 years, including two terms as Speaker of the House.

Group rates for 10 or more with advance reservations include tours of the James K. Polk Home and a self-guided tour of the presidential hall, kitchen and gardens.

Adjacent to the main house is the 1818 Sisters’ House, where two of Polk’s married sisters lived at different times and now serves as the visitor’s center. The painted brick Main House contains original clothing,

40

■ December 2019

Register of Historic Places. Today, in addition to trained docent-led tours visitors should plan to spend time in the gardens and visitors center. oaklandsmansion.org

paintings, furniture and White House china.

Polk Presidential Hall hosts a series of permanent and traveling exhibitions that relate to America during Polk’s lifetime. jameskpolk.com

Polk Home and Museum

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

7

BELLE MEADE PLANTATION

From its beginning, Nashville’s Belle Meade was a diverse operation. The 250 acres of land purchased

by John Harding in 1806 contained a farm and eventually a cotton gin, gristmill and sawmill. By 1820, construction began of a new brick house that Harding began calling Belle Meade. Thoroughbred racing was gaining popularity and always the astute businessman, Harding in 1823 registered his own racing silks with the Nashville Jockey Club. Joining enslaved farm and mill workers, jockeys, trainers and grooms were added to the Belle Meade workforce. The Civil War curtailed racing and breeding in the southern states, but General Harding was able to keep all his horses. Between 1867-1868, Harding’s horses won more purses than any man in the United States. Continuing success occurred until 1893 when a weakening economy put the family deeply in debt.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

Like its early diverse enterprises, today’s Belle Meade shows off a variety of group options. Guided tours include both floors of the Greek Revival mansion. The tour shares the history as told through the eyes of the Harding and Jackson families. Groups will enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and a self-

guided tour of the eight historic buildings on site. In addition to the regular group tour, groups can expand their experience with a Cheese, Chocolate and Wine Pairing Tour, Food & Wine Pairing Tour, Lunch Tour, Culinary Tour or Bourbon at Belle Meade. bellemeadeplantation.com

Belle Meade Plantation

December 2019 ■ 41

Beautiful, certified organic vegetables, herbs and edible flowers grow in abundance at Shadowood Farm in Palm City, Florida.

Florida Agritourism Association

adds new dimension to industry

A

The Sunshine State’s agriculture, natural resources and related industries are ahead of the agritourism curve

By Dave Bodle

s soon as I was tall enough, I spent a few weeks each summer at my aunt and uncle’s farm detasseling corn. Although the work was hard for a youngster, the farm life was a great experience.

Others can share the farm experience thanks to the Florida Agritourism Association, which presents numerous options to explore and experience its members’ farms.

An understanding of agritourism began in spring 2013 with a Florida law recognizing and defining agritourism. Shortly after, the Florida Agritourism Association was founded.

Lena Juarez, executive director, defined the No. 1 mission of the association. “We’re here to assist farmers to be successful with their agritourism operations,” she said.

42

■ December 2019

Part of that assistance offers businesses new to agritourism a tool kit to get them started. Marketing, signage and a strong website are all advantages of membership.

“The Florida Agritourism Association helps

Florida farms tremendously by helping us promote our farms for multiple uses,” said Sarah Fenton of Shadowood Farm, Inc. Farms, ranches, vineyards and almost 200 members are opening their doors so groups of all ages can explore Florida’s plentiful harvest.

Membership can be found throughout the state and whatever your agritourism interest might be, there’s an adventure waiting. Here are just a few to get your excitement flowing.

Allen Cattle Ranch

Sugar Camp Ranch is a popular school field trip option.

Fort Meade The Allen Family has managed this cattle and horse ranch located about an hour east of Tampa since 1972. They expanded their operation in 2017 to include agritourism and since that time, the Allen Barn has hosted >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Photo courtesy of Sarah Fenton

FLORIDA TOUR IDEAS

numerous events, school field trips and group tours. There’s fun to be had on their educational ranch tours, hayrides and other farm life experiences. Although this is a working cattle ranch, the website reviews tell a story of outstanding hospitality. allencattle.com

Green Gate Olive Grove

Alford A little research and I discovered there are 26 varieties of olives. Who would have guessed? Sally and David Gist have nine planted and are planning to introduce a few more to their five-acre grove. Located in Jackson County on the northwestern border with Alabama, Green Gate is just about 80 miles from Tallahassee. There’s every reason to visit including a guided tour of the beautiful olive grove operation. The fall harvest U-pick looks to be a blast. greengateolivegrove.com

Sugar Camp Ranch

Fort White Seven generations have worked the fields of this family farm. Through agritourism,

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

the family is able to pass on the legacy of hard work, good stewardship of the land and finding joy in the simple things in life.

A popular school field trip option, there are a variety of field trip packages. Students have fun while learning about things they’ve never experienced. The large party venue is available to church, reunion, corporate and other groups. sugarcampranch.com

Shadowood Farm. Inc.

Palm City Located off the Treasure Coast between I-95 and the Florida Turnpike on Highway 714, Shadowood is an introduction to growing organic. On the 10-acre farm, Shadowood is growing vegetables, fruits and staple crops. They’re sharing their wisdom with group visitors to this solar powered agroforestry farm. From mid-September through April/May there are educational workshops, farm tours and intermittently farm to table meals with live entertainment.

Private farm to table events can be arranged for up to 100 guests. shadowoodfarm.com

Amazing Grace Family Farms

Green Cove Springs Justin and Kelly Mosley both grew up on small family farms. That feeling of enjoyment they experienced from farm life never left.

At a Farm Bureau Conference in 2012, they developed an interest in agritourism and in 2013, they founded the Amazing Grace Crop Maze. An award-winning farm soon expanded from their fall corn maze to U-pick sunflower and vegetables in the spring. In addition to raising timber and cattle on the farm, they offer a variety of agritourism options including educational field trips, reunions, group and corporate events. agcropmaze.com Florida always has something in season and the Florida Agritourism Association is the place to begin your planning. There’s aqua culture, corn mazes, educational experiences, farms, farmers’ markets, trail riding, hunting and petting farms, orchards, and tree farms.

Start planning to make Florida agritourism part of your next visit to the Sunshine State.

Begin online at visitfloridafarms.com.

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From taking a stroll along brick-lined streets, to exploring picturesque beaches and enjoying old-world flavors infused with new-world charm, St. Augustine | Ponte Vedra invites your clients to create memories they’ll never forget. Help your clients plan a trip to Florida’s Historic Coast® where our history is not the same old story.

FloridasHistoricCoast.com | 800-418-7529, ext. 2011

Denver’s two-mile Parade of Lights dazzles with floats, marching bands and even an appearance by Santa.

REGION

Photo courtesy of Visit Denver

WEST

ROCKY MOUNTAIN STATES CREATE A

WINTER WONDERLAND

Be dazzled by astonishing light displays, live musical performances and noteworthy holiday attractions

By Lauren DeLorenzo

F

ew places offer a more picturesque Christmas retreat than the towering snow-capped mountains and soft glow of tucked-away towns in the Rocky Mountain states. Whether you’re looking for charming antique shops and adventure-filled days at ski ranges or want to admire the lights with a warm cup of cocoa, these cities offer a cozy getaway for the holidays.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

Billings, Montana wastes no time preparing for Christmas with festivities kicking off the day after Thanksgiving. Billings’ annual Holiday Parade features local marching bands jazzing up classic winter tunes along with an appearance from Father Christmas himself. ZooMontana celebrates the season with a drive through its light display and a number of live music festivals play carols throughout December. visitbillings.com

Missoula, Montana is set aglow by its annual Parade of Lights, the perfect backdrop for a number of downtown activities throughout December. Each weekend sees new, themed crafts and a kids corner, while adults can warm up with a mug of hot chocolate as they peruse the quaint specialty and antique shops downtown. Carriage rides are offered throughout downtown through The Resort December 2019 ■ 45

Equally dazzling is the Christmas tree lighting event in Casper, Wyoming where people gather downtown to witness the town’s transformation to a holiday wonderland. Each year, the town embraces a new theme with a parade and ice skating rink. visitcasper.com As snow falls across Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, travelers can embrace their adventurous side with cross-country skiing through the pine trees of the Panhandle National Forest.

Snowboarding and skiing are also popular at Silver Mountain. Jump on board a boat ride with Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises and be dazzled by the more than 1 million lights reflecting off the water from the resort’s holiday light show. coeurdalene.org More breathtaking light displays can be found at the Botanical Garden’s Winter Garden aGlow in Boise, Idaho. Travelers will have to crane their heads to see the top of the huge Christmas tree at the front of the Capitol building. Luckily, visitors can also see festive greenery indoors at the Boise Center, which displays decorated pines during the Festival of Trees as cheerful notes from live music and dance performances winds through the trees. boise.org/plan-your-visit

Denver Zoo

the Christmas spirit by transforming the grounds into a winter wonderland, with its arrangement of wreaths, garlands and lights drawing in visitors throughout the holiday season. flagstaffarizona.org

featuring themed rides (such as the Candy Cane coaster), a miniature train ride and, of course, the chance to meet Santa. Later, take a spin on the outdoor ice skating rink at Acacia Park before visiting the nearby holiday market — perfect for finding unique handmade gifts. The ice skating rink is seasonal and is open from November to February. visitcos.com

Ballets, local musicians and philharmonic performances delight in Reno, Nevada, performing holiday classics. Join carolers each evening in their nightly performances downtown, and don’t miss out on the Reno Santa Pub Crawl, which raises money each year for local charities as participants dress as elves, Santa and Mrs. Claus on their tour of various Reno bars. visitrenotahoe.com

Denver, Colorado offers spectacular views and deluxe shopping, while Denver Zoo delivers a kaleidoscope of colors with Christmas lights sculpted to the shapes of animals. The two-mile Parade of Lights dazzles with floats, marching bands and the appearance of Santa, while the Colorado Ballet does a showing of the Nutcracker to celebrate the season. denver.org/ Tucked away at the base of the mountains is another North Pole experience in Flagstaff, Arizona. Tours of the North Pole lead visitors through the toy factory, Santa’s workshop, Mrs. Claus’ bakery and an elf university. The Riordan Mansion State Historic Park embraces

Photo courtesy of Visit Colorado Springs

Travelers will be delighted by an afternoon in Colorado Springs, where they can visit the North Pole, a Christmas-themed amusement park. The park is packed with holiday cheer,

Photo courtesy of Visit Denver

at Paws Up, offering a delightful view of the town. destinationmissoula.org

Say hello to Santa in Colorado Springs.

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The celebrations continue in Ruidoso, New Mexico, where the Annual Festival of Lights dazzles visitors. Nestled among the mountains in the south of the state, Ruidoso Winter Park offers sledding and tubing. The nearby Ski Apache is home to more challenging skiing and snowboarding paths. In the evening the slopes are brightened by a torchlight parade, where skilled skiers create a ripple of light down the slopes by holding torches as they ski. discoverruidoso.com Nativity scenes and more than a million Christmas lights set up a charming scene in Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Here, holiday festivities run throughout the entire month of December. Visitors can treat themselves to a three-day concert from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, explore the light tunnel at Hogle Zoo or wander through historic villages at Heritage Park’s Candlelight Christmas — all while enjoying views of the snow-capped Wasatch Mountains. visitsaltlake.com With twinkling lights and cozy retreats, the Rocky Mountain states offer a beautiful setting for the perfect holiday season. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Latest

& Greatest

LINQ Promenade Has Added Attraction

NEVADA — Magic shows, live performances and dazzling art installations are now part of The LINQ Promenade’s ongoing array of attractions in Las Vegas. The open-air retail, entertainment and dining district has added several distinctive new acts and visually dazzling art to its ongoing entertainment and attraction lineup, including a close-up magician, strolling pianist, “piano gymnast,” LED drummers and other street performers.

Atmospheric entertainment at The LINQ Promenade is always free and takes place nightly, offering a wealth of photo opportunities and excitement for guests of all ages.

New Football Stadium to Open in 2020

CALIFORNIA — Scheduled to open prior to the 2020 NFL season, SoFi Stadium in Inglewood will serve as the home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League. The roof-covered stadium is scheduled to host Super Bowl LVI in February 2022 and the College Football Playoff National Championship in 2023. The $4.9 billion stadium covers 298 acres and will hold a capacity of 70,240 for football games. It is located on the former site of the Hollywood Park Racetrack.

Photo courtesy of HKS Architects

SoFi Stadium

exhibit will give kids greater opportunities to discover the natural world through play and will be designed to help children develop empathy and better understand and identify with wildlife. Families will be able to venture through four ecosystems—communities of plants and animals that have unique adaptations for their environment. More than 100 species will reside on the 2.3-acre space.

Huntington Library Hosting Centennial Celebration

CALIFORNIA — The Huntington Library’s Centennial Celebration in San Marino is in motion with a yearlong series of exhibitions, public programs, artist interventions, and more—inviting people with a range of interests to engage with the venerable institution’s collections and the connections they offer, and to join an exploration of ideas that will shape the future. The Huntington has announced its first 2020 event will be entering a float in the Jan. 1, 2020 Rose Parade. The 2020 float will mark the first time in 50 years that The Huntington has been represented at the event, which is broadcast worldwide. (huntington.org)

WEST REGION Nevada, Rail Explorers offers exhilarating, guided excursions in two- or four-seat rail bikes along the same tracks used during construction of the dam. All rides start at the Nevada State Railroad Museum and continue downhill to Railroad Pass.

Thunder Dome Car Museum Features Classic Vehicles

WASHINGTON — The new Thunder Dome Car Museum recently opened and features a wide array of classic American muscle cars, vintage sports cars and exotic imports. The museum features more than 80 classic vehicles spanning five decades of automotive history. Thunder Dome’s collection highlights unique Hotrods and muscle cars from a private collection and includes both domestic and foreign manufacturers.

Waterfront Seattle Program Aims to Transform City

SEATTLE – Started in Spring of 2019 and with plans to finish sometime in 2024, The Waterfront Seattle Program aims at transforming Seattle’s central waterfront.

The project includes the removal of both the Alaskan Way viaduct and the replacement of the Elliott Bay seawall as well as the important utility infrastructure and implementation of new Alaskan Way and Elliot Way surface streets.

Rail Explorers Offering YearRound Tours San Diego Zoo to Open Children’s Zoo

CALIFORNIA — The San Diego Zoo announced a $69 million new children’s zoo to be completed in Spring 2021. The new LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

COLORADO — After several successful seasons of springtime operations, Rail Explorers, the family-friendly, outdooradventure attraction featuring pedalpowered rail bikes, began year-round tours in October 2019. Located in Boulder City, December 2019 ■ 47

CENTRAL

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MINNESOTA’S ETHNIC HERITAGE Native American and Scandinavian communities in Minnesota offer travelers a cross-cultural exchange

By Nabiha Asim

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s cultural center

I

n Minnesota, you may be tempted to explore the popular Twin Cities or soak in the pleasures of the great outdoors.

But for your next trip, consider detouring to lesser-known areas that offer a true Minnesota experience and a different side of American history. Although Minnesota has a homogenous reputation, with only eight percent of the population being immigrants according to the U.S. Census, some ethnic groups want to show how exploring Minnesota can be a multicultural experience.

With interest in ancestral exploration, many travelers seek a new understanding LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

about themselves, their roots and the global culture. Visitors to Minnesota can learn about the legacy and influence of Scandinavian immigrants in our society and understand the struggles, triumphs and cultures of the Ojibwe and Dakota people in the state. At many group-friendly locations, travelers can expect authentic experiences that come in a combination of rooted traditions, delicious food and welcoming people.

INGEBRETSEN’S Ingebretsen’s Scandinavian Gifts is your one-stop-shop for Scandinavian gifts,

food, needlework and clothing. In this harmoniously designed market, visitors will find Swedish sausage next to its Norwegian counterparts, Lefse mingles with lingonberries and sardines with herring. In the flourishing ScandinvaianAmerican Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis, Ingebretsen’s is a token of cultural preservation. When many Scandinavians were flocking to suburban American life in the mid-1900s and ditched ethnic-specific grocery stores, Ingebretsen’s expanded and stuck with its roots. This tradition has continued December 2019 ■ 49

AMERICA’S LITTLE SWEDEN— LINDSTROM Just 35 miles northwest of the Twin Cities, you are sure to stumble upon many small Swedish settlements in the town of Lindstrom. The town’s legacy partly goes back to Swedish immigrants who established churches and communities in the mid to late 1800s. Once you see the water tower in the shape of a Swedish coffee pot, you’ll happily know you’re entering America’s Little Sweden.

The Gustaf Anderson House is a popular museum in Lindstrom. Built in 1879 by Gustaf and Helena Anderson, it features a Victorian

for Vilhelm Moberg’s popular emigrant novels, you’ll understand why the residents are so dedicated to preserving their Swedish heritage. Several generations of the Anderson family have lived in the house prior to its conversion to non-residential use in 1971. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites.

Photo courtesy of Paul Crosby

since its opening in 1921 and grown into a cultural center. The center’s Nordic Folk School offers classes such as traditional Scandinavian needlework and knitting, how to make Lefse (Norwegian potato flatbread), kransekake (a spectacular cake), troll masks and fabric construction practices that date back to the Iron and Bronze ages.

AMERICAN SWEDISH INSTITUTE

American Swedish Institute

interior and Italian-style brick exterior.

One of the crown jewels of Lindstrom, the museum tells the stories of early immigrants through historical artifacts and artwork. From the Glader Cemetery, the oldest Swedish burial ground in Minnesota, the Moody Round Barn, built by Swedish farmers, and the Karl Oskar House, home

Established to promote SwedishAmerican, Swedish and Nordic cultures, the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis is a must-visit for your Swedish heritage tour of Minnesota. Guests can tour through the fashioned ceilings, ornately carved wood, charming rugs of Swedish wool and elegant porcelain kakelugnar (tiled stoves) of the landmark 1908 Turnblad Mansion, which originally belonged to two immigrant travelers. The vibrant museum and cultural center also offers special exhibits, family activities and numerous events connected to contemporary Nordic culture and heritage.

Photo courtesy of Karen Nelson

Turnblad Mansion

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>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY The Dakota, once the largest Native American Tribe in the U.S., now makes up only one percent of the population.

Hocokata Ti, in Shakopee, is the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s cultural center and gathering space that is used to interpret and encourage traditional Mdewakanton Dakota cultural heritage, language and history by sustaining this knowledge for SMSC members through exhibitions, preservation and education.

Hocokata Ti’s 3,805-square-foot public exhibit named Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake, provides visitors with a cultural experience that enhances their knowledge and understanding of the Mdewakanton Dakota people and their history.

Tours are offered to guests where an assortment of Dakota Sioux artifacts can be viewed in the public gallery. The Hocokata Ti gift shop contains a variety of Nativemade art, books, music, beaded and quilled items and craft supplies that build upon the

cultural center’s mission to educate visitors about the Dakota people.

PIPESTONE NATIONAL MONUMENT A centuries-long tradition still thrives at this sacred site in southwestern Minnesota. At the heart of the park among a rolling prairie landscape, visitors can find active quarry pits where American Indians quarry red pipestone used for prayer.

Learn about the significance of pipestone and quarrying traditions through a 22-minute film, “Pipestone: An Unbroken Legacy.” Embark on the Circle Trail to see historical markers, unique quartzite rock formations and the astonishing Winnewissa Falls.

While in the area, discover other American Indian sites that collectively tell a much larger story of trade, travel and culture. Jeffers petroglyphs is home to about 5,000 sacred rock carvings made by the ancestors of today’s Native Americans.

Guests can begin at the visitor center

where they will receive hands-on experience with Native American tools, clothing, games, and a prairie plant exhibit that compares the root system of corn compared to a native prairie plant.

Get close to the carvings and interpret their possible meanings with insight from Native American elders and take self-guided tours through 80 acres of native prairie.

MILLE LACS INDIAN MUSEUM Minnesota rivers historically were a place of diplomacy and trade and there’s no better way of learning this than through the stories of the Ojibwe tribe, major players in the fur trade economy.

The dioramas showcase the tribe’s rhythm of four seasons harvesting maple syrup, fishing, gathering berries and drying wild rice. The museum’s classes on weaving, beading and traditional cooking, and seasonal programs on maple syruping, ricing, traditional dances, and building canoes or tipis allows visitors to get a close-up view of their way of life.

Spomer Classics

King Turkey Day

International Festival

Windsurfing Regatta & Music Festival

Worthington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 507-372-2919

www.worthingtonmnchamber.com • wcofc@worthingtonmnchamber.com

Customized Tours, Agriculture, History, Lake, Arts, Performances, Festivals & Events.

Ask about free welcome reception for overnight bus tours!

Hocokata Ti gift shop

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

December 2019 ■ 51

MINNESOTA TOUR IDEAS Museum, and if you’re in town in November and December, have a history discussion with the museum director.

Hewing Hotel’s ultra-stylish Tullibee restaurant In Minneapolis’ historic North Loop, a former logging warehouse combines a hip, rustic-chic environment with traditional methods of butchery, foraging and fermentation. Inspired by a wood-fired grill, local dishes like a Hewing Burger for lunch or dry-aged flat-iron steak for dinner complete an authentic farm-to-table Nordic cuisine.

Eat Like a Swede Minnesota’s Swedish food is more than meatballs and pickled herring

By Nabiha Asim

T

he New Nordic Food Movement that began in 2003 is no longer just Nordic. This movement has more recently penetrated borders and has been adapted by chefs across various U.S. communities, especially those with longtime Scandinavian roots. The culinary revolution, featuring sustainability, regional and seasonal ingredients and clean simple flavors, has become popular in Minnesota, which is home to diverse, authentic and creative Scandinavian establishments. Here are some Swedish restaurants to consider during your visit to Minnesota.

The Bachelor Farmer This Nordic-influenced, all-day cafe in Minneapolis calls itself an “exploration of Northern food.” Owned by brothers Eric and Andrew Dayton, the Bachelor Farmer has been a favorite dining spot for locals and travelers for eight years. Chow down on the 52

■ December 2019

popular groaning boards of housemade pâtés and charcuterie or have a hearty family-style red wattle pork dinner on the weekend. With its focus on bringing fresh, local produce to its tables, The Bachelor Farmer regularly updates the menu where you can encounter pickled strawberries, grilled venison, pasture-raised chicken and simply presented vegetables.

Annie’s Swedish Coffee Parties Inspired by Gammelgarden’s oldest resident, Annie, this restaurant brings you a Swedish three-course Coffee Party each second Saturday from September through December to celebrate her coffee tradition.

Over some coffee and Swedish biscuits, learn about Swedish immigrants in Minnesota and the culture they revived over the years.

Afterward, take a guided tour of the five historic buildings at the Gammelgarden

The Finnish Bistro coffee shop and bakery In the charming St. Anthony Park neighborhood of St. Paul, an Edison lighted, comfortable, sunny cafe with a music stage features classic Finnish bites like potato pancakes, savory pies and meatballs. Try customer favorites like kielbasa, spicy reindeer sausage and delicious pulla bread as well as salads, sandwiches and all-day breakfast, cakes, and baked sweets.

Gustaf’s on Main Eatery You can’t leave Minnesota without having Swedish meatballs. On Thursday evenings at Gustaf’s in Lindstrom, ask about the Swedish Meatball dinner. This historic red-brick, Victorian-style restaurant invites locals and visitors for flavorful and affordable food for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

With their mission to restore and preserve the historic landmark, local owners Ed and Deannah Muha purchased the “crown jewel” of Lindström the red brick “Gustaf’s House,” a site on the National Register of Historic Places.

With the opening of Gustaf’s eatery a year later, the Muhas revived an old world charm.

This organic, farm-to-table, locally sourced restaurant relates the stories of Swedish immigrants through its food.

Lindstrom Bakery Voted one of America’s best doughnuts by Saveur, Lindstrom Bakery is the home of the Scandinavian donut. The doughnuts’ crispy texture on the outside and soft inside has made them a staple sweet in the Lindstrom area for 43 years. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Photo courtesy of Dan Norman

Cast of The Servant of Two Masters, GRSF 2019

Overlooking the mighty Mississippi, the small river town of Winona shares a treasure chest of scenic views and art options.

Winona, Minnesota

Discovering Winona’s Art Treasures Day 1

Arrive in Winona and check in to one of the city’s numerous group-friendly hotels. Refresh and depart for dinner at any of Winona’s unique restaurants with “local flavors.”

Day 2

WINONA CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

cporter@visitwinona.com 800-657-4972 VisitWinona.com

GREAT RIVER SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL eileenm@grsf.org 507-474-7900 grsf.org

MINNESOTA MARINE ART MUSEUM hello@mmam.org 507-474-6626 mmam.org

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting your step-on guide. It’s a short drive to Garvin Heights for an early morning panoramic view of the Mississippi River Valley. Via a paved path, the view is accessible for visitors with limited mobility. Wear comfortable shoes if you want to do a little exploring off the path.

The next stop is stained-glass manufacturer Willet Hauser Architectural Glass. You’ll experience firsthand the masterful techniques the company has used for more than 120 years. With your guide leading the way through Winona, you’ll see remarkable stained glass installations, including Tiffany Studios’ pieces and Prairie School-era architecture. A busy morning concludes with a tour of the spectacular Basilica of Saint Stanislaus Kostka and its stunning architecture and stained glass.

It’s lunch on your own and some shopping time in beautiful downtown Winona. Browse unique gift shops, boutiques and galleries. Return to your hotel to relax before a memorable evening.

An early dinner tonight is at Signatures Restaurant & Event Center. The setting, resting on limestone bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River Valley, is spectacular.

A talented, accommodating staff will serve a fine dining experience from an exceptional group menu in your private dining room. Signatures has a well-deserved

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

AAA Three Diamond rating.

Following dinner, you’ll arrive at the beautiful Winona State University campus and its DuFresne Performing Arts Center, where Great River Shakespeare Festival (GRSF) is in residence throughout the summer. This Professional Equity Theater attracts thousands of patrons each year.

GRSF produces two Shakespeare plays and two modern plays. GRSF’s 17th season (opening June 26, 2020) will feature The Taming of the Shrew and The Tempest by William Shakespeare, Great Expectations by Gale Childs Daly (adapted from the Charles Dickens novel), and Every Brilliant Thing by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe.

The festival runs for six weeks, and includes many other programs to fill out your festival experience. Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest after a fun-filled day.

Day 3 After breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart for an inspiring, meaningful and exciting morning. Arrive at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) for a docent-led tour - three weeks notice is required to arrange a docent, or you can tour on your own. MMAM is home to a large variety of European and American masters, including works by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Cassatt, Gauguin, Picasso, Matisse, O’Keeffe and many more. Proudly on display is Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware. In addition to its permanent collection, MMAM hosts more than 10 exhibitions annually. 2020 exhibitions include Christy Lee Rogers: Baroque Water Worlds (May 8, 2020 - September 6, 2020) and Christian Vizl: Silent Kingdom (September 11, 2020 - January 3, 2021). Visit mmam.org for a full schedule of 2020 temporary exhibitions.

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In the heart of Southern Minnesota, Owatonna has been at the crossroads of history for decades. From longforgotten history to architectural masterpieces, Owatonna showcases an array of historic treasures to explore.

VISIT OWATONNA

Emily Volkmer evolkmer@owatonna.org 507-451-7970 visitowatonna.org

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Owatonna, Minnesota

Step Back in Time – History Tour Day 1

Arrive in Owatonna and check in to one of the city’s group-friendly hotels. Get settled and leave for a wonderful dinner at any of Owatonna’s unique restaurants in the historic downtown district.

Day 2 Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing to the Steele County History Center to start your historic day.

You’ll experience what life was like at the turn of the 20th century at the Village of Yesteryear. The 19-structure display of the original circular layout of Owatonna features Congressman Mark H. Dunnell’s 1868 house and the Milwaukee Railroad Bixby Depot built in 1899.

Lunch will be catered in from a local restaurant after you’re done walking through the rotating exhibits of the History Center.

The next stop is Louis Sullivan’s biggest and most elaborate Jewel Box of the Prairie Bank. With your guide leading you through the bank, you will experience awe-inspiring and spirit-lifting architecture. Visitors compare it to a religious experience, “like stepping into a cathedral bathed in light.” This is the first of Sullivan’s eight Jewel Box of the Prairie Banks. Architecture Historian Tom Martinson calls it “one of the greatest buildings in American history.”

Finally, your last stop will take you to the Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum, once the thirdlargest institution of its kind in the nation. Over 10,000 neglected and abused children were sent to Owatonna from 1885 to 1945, where they could be transformed

into productive members of society. The State School was to be a temporary home, preparing the orphans for adoption or placement in “good homes” (most were placed in farms to be used as work hands).

Refresh back at the hotel before dinner at one of Owatonna’s group-friendly restaurants. Local favorites include Torrey’s Restaurant & Bar and Plaza Morena Campestre Grill. Take the rest of the evening to relax at Mineral Springs Brewery, which is located on the banks of the Straight River. Enjoy a pint of fresh, locally brewed beer on the patio or walk along the river during the quiet evening.

Day 3 After you have had breakfast and checked out of your hotel, depart for a leisurely walk as you and your guide explore the unique architecture and history of Downtown Owatonna during the Historic Walking Tour. The district has a total of 75 contributing buildings and one contributing park, which date from 1876 to the late 1950s. This tour highlights five murals, each depicting the history of Owatonna and a local landmark, the Owatonna Power Plant building. Built in 1855, it showcases three original smokestacks behind the iconic red neon lettering.

Additions to the building in 2015 have kept with the original style, incorporating the old floors and equipment as it transformed from an energy source to administrative space.

Before you say farewell, find a handmade sweet treat to take back with you from one of its nationally known candy stores. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Travel back in time and around the world on this unique two-day Lake County tour.

It includes the model railroad and Japanese Gardens at Wandering Tree Estate, private access to the spectacular 19th-century, music-themed collections of the Sanfilippo Estate, the 14th-century, gothic wonders of Bettendorf Castle, an evening at Ravinia Festival and the Marriott Theatre.

Lake County, Illinois: North Barrington, Lake Barrington, Fox River Grove, Barrington, Lake Zurich, Highland Park, Lincolnshire

Castles, Pubs and Rails Day 1

Visit the grounds of the Wandering Tree Estate, the home of the “Train Lady” Elaine Silets. You will see two large and elaborate model railroad layouts.

The Gloree and Triumphant Garden Railway runs on over 10,000-square-feet of land. Large G scale trains pass through bridges and over waterfalls.

See the Japanese Gardens that grow thousands of begonias and is complemented by a charming gazebo overlooking the lake. Your group lunch suggestion is Onion Pub & Brewery built from recycled timbers that pre-date the American Revolution. The Barrington facility is perched on a restored gravel quarry. Starting as a brewery making Wild Onion beer, the business grew into a showpiece of craftsmanship inside and out. The Great Hall is anchored by a large timber farm cathedral ceiling that overlooks a beautiful 11-acre lake.

In the Afternoon

LAKE COUNTY

Jayne Nordstrom jayne@lakecounty.org 800-LAKE-NOW visitlakecounty.org/Group-Tours

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

Get an intimate glimpse of medieval in the Chicago suburbs at Bettendorf Castle, which is open from May to October. The extraordinary, one-of-a-kind Gothic-style castle established in 1932 hosts grounds tours and features dozens of magnificent mature oak trees, landscaping that overlooks towers, turrets, a moat, a drawbridge, fountains and spacious yards.

All this touring can make one thirsty. Lake County has a brewing company named after a castle in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland: Flesk Brewing Company. A trip to the castle by the family patriarch left an impression.

The sons of the patriarch studied and sampled beer until

only the best was created. You can sample these unique brews at this Barrington brewhouse, which is located in the historic Ice House Mall. Also residing in the Ice House Mall is an area-favorite, Chessie’s Restaurant, where dinner can be conveniently arranged in the train car. Delectable fare and impeccable service make for a relaxing end of the day before heading home or to your local hotel. We can make several suggestions including the Hampton Inn & Suites Deer Park, Four Points Sheraton in Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire Marriott Resort and more depending on your preference.

Day 2 The next day, visit the extraordinary Sanfilippo Estate (home of the Fisher Nut Company family). It’s a castle in its own right, 44,000-square-feet of amazing collections highlighted by orchestrions, the world’s largest indoor pipe organ and a restored European carousel trimmed in gold. Groups can now decide on the classic tour or the new wing featuring the son Jeffrey’s extensive perfume bottle collection and a complete 1800s general store. Your group lunch suggestion is at Franco’s Pescheria in Lake Zurich, a local fish market, restaurant and raw bar.

This intimate dining experience features only the freshest fish and Venetian family recipes. Should you decide to stay with us again, catch a concert at North America’s oldest outdoor music festival: Ravinia Festival in Highland Park (with Ravinia Brewing Company nearby to wet your whistle). You can enjoy a new or favorite musical at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire.

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Latest

& Greatest

Play Ball in Wichita

KANSAS — A new $75 million baseball stadium will be ready for play in April 2020 when the Miami Marlins’ Triple-A minor league team, previously known as the New Orleans Baby Cakes, will be renamed and relocated to Wichita. Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River in the historic Delano District, the stadium, with 6,000 fixed seats and a seating berm, expects to host concerts, ice skating, football games and special events.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Fort Wayne Unveils Riverfront Park

INDIANA — Fort Wayne returns to its historical riverfront with the opening of Promenade Park, a development that renews Fort Wayne’s three rivers—the St. Marys, St. Joseph and Maumee—as a regional destination for recreation, arts and culture. The park joins the rivers with thriving downtown Fort Wayne. Interactive elements include a treetop canopy trail that stretches 560 feet from the historic Wells Street Bridge to the Harrison Street Bridge, offering a view of the park, river and skyline. The park also has an accessible playground, interactive water feature, amphitheater and dining garden. (visitfortwayne.com)

St. Louis Aquarium is Poised to Open Rock Fans in Cleveland Play Their Music

OHIO — For the first time in the museum’s 24-year history, fans can pick up real instruments, learn to play, jam with friends, make a video of their performance, and brand their band with custom merchandise in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s new interactive exhibit, The Garage. The space includes 12 dedicated instrument stations featuring guitars, drums and keyboards and a brief instructional video. Fans can select songs to perform from a selection that includes music from classic rock, soul, grunge and hip hop and all points in between. Songs were selected to fit a range of music abilities, including those of the 50,000 students that visit the museum annually. Fans can collectively jam in a recording room filled with the instruments of rock and roll and share their performance video. An exhibition of iconic artifacts from the Rock Hall’s collection, including guitars from legendary artists spanning all eras is on display. The Garage, which takes over the museum’s second floor, is a part of the Rock Hall’s ongoing transformation.

Recent upgrades include an immersive theater, added outdoor summer stage and an interactive Hall of Fame floor. (rockhall.com)

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ST. LOUIS – The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, slated to open in late 2019, will be the centerpiece of a $187 million family entertainment complex in downtown St. Louis. The aquarium (with more than 13,000 animals from freshwater and marine environments around the world) and other attractions are being built under the 500,000-square-foot train shed at Union Station, a National Historic Landmark. The site will include a 200-foot-tall observation wheel with 42 gondolas, carousel, 18-hole mini golf course, ropes course and three restaurants. (stlouisaquarium.com)

Obama Statue Unveiled in Rapid City

SOUTH DAKOTA — City of Presidents, a series of life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents along the streets and sidewalks of downtown Rapid City, added a statue of the 44th president, Barack Obama.

Created by local sculptor James Van Nuys, it portrays Obama at his first inauguration, with the president and his daughter Sasha both waving to the crowd. The City of Presidents project began in 2000 to honor the legacy of the American presidency. Each

CENTRAL REGION

Barack Obama statue

of the sculptures is privately funded, and the pattern of placement was chosen to maintain a coherent structure and eliminate any sense of favoritism or political gain. (visitrapidcity.com)

Greece Grabs the Spotlight in Indianapolis

INDIANA — Visitors of all ages can take a virtual trip to Greece via new long-term exhibitions at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Rare antiquities and actor interpreters will help bring history to life in Treasures of Ancient Greece, which looks at how the ideas of the ancient Greeks formed the basis of current practices in science, politics and medicine. Artifacts include a replica of the famed Antikythera mechanism (believed to be the world’s oldest analog computer), which predicted eclipses of the sun and moon in relation to major events like the ancient Olympics.

Bronze ballots and a replica voting machine demonstrate how the world’s first democracy shaped the politics of today. Visitors can test their own speed in a virtual Olympic running event, and they may vote in an Athenian Assembly, create mosaic artwork and tell an ancient Greek story by creating a visual story on a special vase. Take Me There: Greece, one of the largest exhibitions on contemporary Greece ever mounted in the United States, is a travel adventure that lets families explore the country through food, music and dance, and home life. (childrensmuseum.org) >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

EAST

REGION

BAY WATCHING

DISCOVER QUINTESSENTIAL MARYLAND ON CHESAPEAKE BAY

M

aryland’s shoreline wraps around Chesapeake Bay before it edges toward the great expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. For nearly 400 years, Marylanders have worked the 200-mile estuary as watermen, farmers and dreamers as they welcome all-comers to the New World. Fast forward to today and they still do.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

By Mary Lu Laffey

One way to experience quintessential Maryland is on the Great Chesapeake Bay Loop, developed by the Maryland Office of Tourism. “I would say that there isn’t just one loop,” said Rich Gilbert, travel trade sales manager for the state.

“The Chesapeake Bay Loop could be done in various lengths and a variety of ways. A loop around the upper bay, the lower bay or a loop that

December 2019 ■ 57

circles the entire bay.” It can also cut across the state line.

“Maryland makes a great option for basing a hub-and-spoke tour,” Gilbert said. “It provides easy access for exploring multiple destinations. Annapolis, Baltimore, Frederick, (but also) Gettysburg, Lancaster, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. are easily accessible within a short time period.”

On the mainland, Annapolis is a draw at any time of the year. Year-round, perioddressed guides from Annapolis Tours by Watermark lead groups on its popular Four Centuries walking tour.

After meeting our guide, in full colonial costume, we set off to see the capital’s historic district and were wowed by the 18th-century architecture of the buildings and mansions.

A stop at the Maryland State House includes the Old Senate Chamber. It was there in 1783 that George Washington resigned as Commander in Chief of the Army. Its wooden dome is topped by a lightning rod made by Benjamin Franklin.

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■ December 2019

Annapolis is a beautiful city and a popular draw any time of the year.

Watermark guides are re-certified annually and are United States Naval Academy-approved so our group stepped through the gates of the campus without any hitch — identification requirements are confirmed in advance of any tour. The

Beaux Arts-style campus was founded in 1845 and is home to 4,000 midshipmen.

Behind-the-scenes stops provided glimpses of the school’s traditions and included the Chapel, the Crypt of John Paul Jones and Bancroft Hall, home to the entire brigade of midshipmen.

After a bite to eat at Drydock Restaurant in Dahlgren Hall, our group pushed on for freetime shopping and photo ops at City Dock, where the city meets the Chesapeake. In many ways, this area is the heart of Annapolis.

A Watermark Cruise option provides views of the Naval Academy and the Annapolis Harbor from the water. In summer, the weather onboard the Harbor Queen or Miss Anne Annapolis is reportedly 10 degrees cooler than on land. Narrated, the 40-minute cruises depart from Annapolis City Dock and include glimpses of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge that connects the western and eastern shores of the state.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge crosses to the Maryland shore area that includes small towns where the word charming says it all and yet, not enough. Spending a day in St. Michaels sets a high bar, especially when it includes a tour at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. The museum sits on 18 waterfront acres with ample motorcoach parking.

Never one to rest on laurels, the museum has new tour offerings that range from the historic — how St. Michaels fooled the British — to others that get landlubbers >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Tours provide insight into the history of the Chesapeake and how the oyster helped shape area culture, industry and environment.

out on the water.

One new tour, Chesapeake through the Eyes of a Waterman, explores oystering on the Chesapeake, its environment and its history, culture and people.

Another is billed as an Adult Ecology Cruise on the Miles River. The 45-minute cruise offers hands-on activities aboard a 1920 buyboat, the Winnie Estelle. FYI: A buyboat cruises the bay to “buy” catch from smaller boats while the crew is still on the water.

Also new are the Catch of the Day Tour and Oystering on the Chesapeake. On the Catch tour, learn what it means to “follow the water,” tong for oysters, pull crab pots, explore a skipjack and listen to stories of the “big guns” or commercial hunters at the turn of the 19th-century.

The Oystering tour provides insight into the history of the Chesapeake and how the not-so-simple oyster shaped area culture, industry, and environment.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels boasts a working boatyard designed to pass maritime skills on to a new generation of shipwrights. Visitors can follow the construction of a new version of the Maryland Dove, a 17th-century trading ship used by first European settlers.

All work is in public view; the launch is anticipated in 2021. The shipyard and the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, also located on museum grounds, are possible locations for a group photo.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

The museum itself is a highlight in a 90-minute guided tour called A Day in St. Michaels. It includes lunch at the Crab Claw restaurant overlooking St. Michaels Harbor and a narrated Miles River cruise aboard the 149-passenger ship, Patriot.

Back on land, the historic waterfront village is a haven for free-time activities from gallery hopping and amazing dining to retail therapy and tasting rooms. Only a few of the many reasons St. Michaels is consistently named to “best of” lists. www.visitmaryland.org

RELAXING BEACH ENTERTAINING BOARDWALK HERITAGE EXPERIENCES FESTIVALS & EVENTS

OCO-2019-25192 Groups_Today_4.75x4.75.indd 1

CALL NORMA DOBROWOLSKI 800.626.2326 OCOCEAN.COM/GROUP-TRAVEL

8/28/19 1:17 PM December 2019 ■ 59

MARYLAND TOUR IDEAS

RELISH THE GROANING BOARD THAT IS CHESAPEAKE BAY

60

â&#x2013; December 2019

>> LeisureGroupTravel.com

By Mary Lu Laffey omewhere between “Where’s lunch?” and dining, groups following the Chesapeake Bay Loop can tap into their hunter-gatherer past with a food experience. Food experiences keep Maryland ahead of the curve.

“Maryland has always been known for our crabs, so a tour often includes a crab cake meal or a crab feast,” said Rich Gilbert, travel trade sales manager for the Maryland Office of Tourism. “You can’t get much more authentic than a crab picking experience.”

At the Crab Capital of the World, Crisfield, Maryland, groups can trace seafood from crab pots to table tops. crisfieldchamber.com Discover the Lower Shore’s maritime past, seafood harvesting and processing at the J. Millard Tawes Museum. The museum provides insight into the lifestyle of today’s watermen and their forefathers.

Don’t miss exhibits of hand-carved decoys created by two local brothers, Stephen and Lemuel Ward. The Wards founded the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, located in Salisbury. crisfieldheritagefoundation.org/museums In season, witness how crab is processed for shipping at MeTompkin Bay Seafood.

Plan to stick around for a chef-led, DIY crab cake lesson. metompkinseafood.com The Crab Place is a local and tour favorite.

Groups can dine on site, either al fresco or indoors, and see demonstrations on crab streaming, picking and crab cake making. A Smith Island Cake maker also shows up. A Smith Island Cake tops off between eightand 12 razor-thin layers of yellow cake iced with cooked chocolate fudge. It is Maryland’s official state dessert. crabplace.com, smithislandcake.com Tilghman Island is one of the last working waterman villages on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The Phillips Wharf Environmental Center is home to a working oyster house where groups can take a lesson in oyster aquaculture and visit estuaries for a closeup look at the creatures that inhabit the area.

Guests can also step into a kayak or canoe to access a water trail among the marshes or a more challenging open-water paddle. tilghmanisland.com, phillipswharf.org Rehash experiences with a cup of oyster stew at Characters Bridge Restaurant.

S

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

It’s a local favorite for the menu and the view.

Primed by the day’s touring, step aboard a national historic landmark, the Rebecca T. Ruark, a skipjack oyster dredging boat, circa 1896. It is the oldest skipjack still working on the Chesapeake. Get out on the water while listening to stories celebrating the world of oystering. Assistance is welcome to raise the sails, even steer. charactersbridgerestaurant. com, skipjack.org

®

Spend some time in Ocean City, Maryland

Relax, Unwind, Stay with the Best of the Best

The Boardwalk Hotel Group

Contact Group Sales Today!

www.boardwalkhotels.com groupsales@boardwalkhotels.com 1-800-926-1122 | 888-465-3451

Pet Friendly

December 2019 ■ 61

Latest

& Greatest

Washington Monument Reopens

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA – After a 37-month closure, the iconic Washington Monument has reopened with a new elevator system and visitor center as part of a $10.8 million project. The National Park Service has also begun a $25 million renovation of the 95-year-old Lincoln Memorial, adding new services and design to enhance the visitor experience, including activating the space below the monument. Completion is expected prior to the centennial of the memorial’s dedication in 2022.

Lincoln Memorial

Phase One of Delaware Botanic Gardens Opens

DELAWARE – The first phase of Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek just opened on the Delmarva Peninsula in Ocean View. It celebrates the coastal plain with a sustainable garden that inspires visitors to preserve Delmarva’s native landscape. One garden is built among farmhouse ruins. Guided tours are available and a section of the parking lot is reserved for tour buses.

New Food Hall Opens in Wilmington

DELAWARE – DE.CO is a new food hall in downtown Wilmington. Eight restaurant stalls, an atrium bar and private event space are set in the historic, Art Deco-style DuPont Building.

Food choices range from chicken and waffles to artisan pizza and Indian street food.

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■ December 2019

EAST REGION

Baltimore to Host ABA Marketplace in 2021

MARYLAND – Visit Baltimore will host the American Bus Association Marketplace, the premier business event for the group travel industry, January 29-February 2, 2021.

Maryland plans to offer pre- and post-tours in various parts of the state.

Hemisphere’s highest outdoor observatory (Edge). Hudson Yards’ focal point is the plaza’s 15-story Vessel, a climbable sculpture laced with 154 staircases and 80 landings that offer views of the city from different vantage points.

Museum of the Dog

American Dream Mega-Mall Opens in the Meadowlands

NEW JERSEY – The first phase of American Dream mega-mall has been unveiled at the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford. It will include more than 300 retail and entertainment venues, plus a food court, kosher food hall and 23 fullservice restaurants. There will be an indoor Nickelodeon amusement park, indoor water park, ice skating rink and a ski slope that uses snowmaking equipment, plus a SEA LIFE Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, an observation wheel and two 18-hole miniature golf courses.

Hudson Yards Opens in New York City

NEW YORK – Hudson Yards, the largest mixed-use private real estate development in American history, is open for business on the west side of midtown Manhattan.

The complex of glass buildings includes offices, residences, shops, restaurants and a hotel. The new neighborhood’s tallest building, at 101 stories, will have the Western Hudson Yards

Museum of the Dog Returns to Manhattan

NEW YORK – The American Kennel Club’s Museum of the Dog, formerly in St. Louis, has returned to AKC headquarters in Manhattan, not far from Grand Central Terminal. The updated museum has interactive stations, including Find Your Match, in which a kiosk matches your face to a dog breed, and Meet the Breeds, a touchscreen that lets guests explore the history and traits of different breeds. The museum also features paintings, figurines and sculptures.

Independence Visitor Center Receives Renovations

PHILADELPHIA – Renovation of the Independence Visitor Center, the official visitor center of greater Philadelphia and gateway to Independence National Historical Park, features upgrades such as a 42-foot, interactive digital wall that displays content visitors can explore via touchscreen, the first Hershey’s Kitchens location in Philadelphia, an eight-minute film featuring sites and attractions, the official gift shop of Philadelphia and a mezzanine-level, outdoor terrace with unparalleled views of Independence Mall for capturing the perfect selfie. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

VOYAGES CRUISE GUIDE 2020

Distinct Group Cruises from Partner Cruise Lines

BEST OCEAN AND RIVER CRUISES FOR GROUPS

Why is Cruising

RIGHT FOR YOUR GROUP?

LETTER OF WELCOME

Voyages by U.S. Tours VOYAGES IS A SEPARATE DIVISION within U.S. Tours and has built partnerships with many of the world’s leading cruise lines, making us Group Cruise Headquarters for members of the American Bus Association (ABA) and Select Travel Market. We are focused exclusively on group cruises and are always looking for unique opportunities for our customer base. If you are a tour planner and need help with a cruise, we are your one-call shop.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH VOYAGES: ▸ All group leaders receive a balcony upgrade and free travel insurance ▸ Customizable comp fares & flexible pricing ▸ All cruise groups receive our free group travel app ▸O ur special all-inclusive group travel protection is non-age based and can be included in your price ADDITIONAL SERVICES: ▸ We have our own in-house air department ▸ We offer pre-cruise packages with hotels, restaurants and tours ▸ We handle online check-ins and registrations for your group ▸ We provide luggage tags, documents bags and name tags upon request at no additional cost ▸ We can confirm your group shore excursions MARKETING ASSISTANCE: ▸ Sales presentations to your customers ▸ Personalized flyers specific to your cruise ▸ Social media copy and images If our experience has taught us anything, it’s that groups have different needs. A vacation should fit the needs of the group – the group shouldn’t have to fit the vacation. We will customize a cruise vacation to fit the exact needs of your group.

Our dedicated Voyages staff is committed to making sure your group cruise is a success. We stand ready to make your cruise a memorable event for all. Give us a call today at 304-485-8687 or visit ustoursvoyages.com.

Bon Voyage, Bob Cline President, U.S. Tours

2

Kim Walters Manager, Voyages by U.S. Tours

Photo courtesy of Cunard Line

Cruisingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Growth Presents New Opportunities for Group Travel

A

s cruising continues to grow, it is increasing its appeal and creating new opportunities for group travel planners.

The cruise industry is moving forward with not only new ships but also expanding the diversity of its offerings with new amenities and destinations. All of this is good news for you as group travel planners.

Why Cruising?

Cruising has consistently been one of the fastestgrowing vacation segments. Indeed, over the past five years, it has achieved a better than 6 percent annual compound growth rate, according to industry trade group Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). In 2019, 30 million people cutting across all age groups and income levels were expected to take an ocean or river cruise, according to CLIA. While cruising has a strong appeal with couples and

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Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises

WHAT TYPE OF CRUISE IS RIGHT FOR YOUR GROUP • C ontemporary Cruise Lines – Largest ships with the broadest array of amenities, including attention grabbers like go-carts or roller coasters. remium Cruise Lines – Mid-sized • P ships offering higher levels of service and elements such as fine dining and more focus on destinations but less variety in entertainment.

• D eluxe Cruise Lines – Smaller ships, often all-suite or all-veranda, with the focus on personalized service, often with butlers, fine dining and inclusive pricing.

• S pecialty Cruising – Best examples are river cruises and expedition-oriented cruises to offbeat destinations.

4

families, it also attracts groups of friends. In fact, people who take cruises are 40 percent more likely to travel with friends than those who take land-based vacations.

To understand the opportunities, it is important to understand the appeal of vacations at sea. Consumer research shows that people are more interested in experiences than possessions, and nowhere is that more true than in travel.

Vacationers are seeking out achievements, checking off bucket-list items and sharing their experiences on social media. They are also seeking access to luxury experiences that provide the opportunity to relax and get away from the pressures of daily life, but they do not want to leave behind their technology—they still want access to

friends and family or the ability to check in at work. The cruise lines are successfully incorporating current trends, adding new amenities and refocusing their shore programming to create unique experiences.

For you to have a successful group program, it is important to understand that cruising is not a “one size fits all” experience. You need to match your target audience to the right cruise.

Different Cruises for Different Groups There are three broad segments in cruising.

The contemporary lines, with ships that carry as many as 6,000 passengers, appeal to the widest market. They are a mix of theme parks and resorts, with multiple dining venues and

a vast variety of entertainment and outdoor activities. The product is less price-inclusive than on more expensive ships, meaning that daily elements of the cruise require additional charges. But the size of the ships and range of activities appeal to more diverse groups. Many of the contemporary cruise lines are promoting family travel and highlighting how the variety is perfect for multigenerational groups.

For travelers looking for a more personalized experience with higher levels of service and a more relaxed environment, the cruise industry has its premium and deluxe segments. Premium cruise ships generally carry around 2,000 to 3,000 passengers, with more emphasis on fine dining options and entertainment on a smaller scale than the contemporary ships. While all cruise ships offer suites, the highest levels of luxury are found in the deluxe segment where the ships may carry 1,000 or fewer passengers.

Often all of the accommodations are suites, likely with butler service. Guests can expect multiple fine dining experiences, more cabaret-style entertainment and a focus on out-of-the-way destinations.

Within these broad categories, there are, of course, further distinctions and subgroups. For example, expedition cruising to far-flung destinations, like the Galapagos Islands and Antarctica, is on the rise, with more than 30 new luxury ships being built for expedition cruising. River cruising, also riding a streak of popularity and a good fit for many groups, focuses on exploring the culture and heritage of destinations.

Another factor that distinguishes cruises is the pricing approach. Many ships are like resorts, with added fees for some of the attractions, fine dining, spa services, shore excursions, beverages and gratuities.

Some of the cruise lines, especially in the premium, deluxe and river categories, offer more inclusive fares. Group planners should look for special promotions and amenities from all the lines.

Matching your groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests and expectations to the right cruise is critical.

Fortunately, the growth in cruising is making it easier as more distinctions emerge.

people to drive to their cruise, or, for you as a group planner, to offer roundtrip bus transportation to the port.

Destinations

The new ships are introducing a host of new amenities. On the biggest ships, this includes everything from roller coasters and go-carts to virtual reality experiences, all of which are perfect for your multigenerational groups, families and vacationers who enjoy the excitement of a theme park. But cruising is not only about these attention-getting elements, as you can also find new fine dining programs through partnerships with celebrity chefs and wineries as well as enrichment programs coordinated to the destinations.

The Caribbean, Alaska and Europe are perennially popular, but other destinations, like Asia and Australia, are gaining ground.

And river cruising adds to the possibilities.

In the Caribbean, the cruise lines are increasing the emphasis on their private islands, which host beach parties, offer sports activities and feature luxury villas you can rent for the day.

The increasing variety of destinations means that you have more options on where to begin and end your cruise. Many of the lines are expanding their use of regional ports around North America, cities such as Baltimore, Charleston and Galveston. This means it is easier for

Experiences

Entertainment The cruise lines also seek to differentiate their products through their entertainment

Photo courtesy of Cunard Line

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programs. Some ships feature versions of Broadway shows and other lavish musical productions; others favor smaller acts, like comedians, magicians and singers.

For travelers who might be seeking more sophisticated fare, some of the premium cruise lines feature fine arts programs, such as the ballet. Smaller luxury cruise ships often present more low-key entertainment.

Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises

Accommodations Today’s cruise ships offer a wide variety of cabins to suit each individual traveler’s expectations. The most basic option is an inside cabin, meaning it does not have a view outside the ship. An outside cabin has a window or, in many cases, a private veranda. The newest ships have special spa cabins that may feature a more luxurious bathroom and private access to the ship’s spa facilities. Specially designed cabins for families are becoming more common, with added space and more sleeping arrangements and private family lounges. The newest suites are more luxurious with not only more space and multiple bedrooms, but even private gardens or an in-suite spa with sauna, steam room and jetted tub.

With all the new options out there, it is an ideal time for you to explore organizing a group. In 2020 alone, 20 new cruise ships are scheduled to be introduced, and over the next eight years, the cruise industry will add more than 100 new ships, increasing its capacity by nearly 50 percent.

All of the cruise lines have special

programs for group travel and are adding additional amenities both to make it easier for you to sell your group and then to provide the best experience at sea.

CRUISE AMENITIES CHECKLIST With the cruise lines offering so many different experiences, it is important that you match your group’s interest with the elements available on different cruises. Use this list to check off what will appeal most to your group:

☐

ttractions – Go-carts, bungeeA jumping, rock climbing, laser tag, virtual reality

☐ A qua fun – Water slides, adults-only deck spaces/pools, multiple pools, children’s play areas

☐ D ining – Fine dining versus casual

dining; multiple dining venues (extra fee); all-inclusive dining

☐ A mbience – Family; 24/7 fun; quiet

elegance; large vs. medium vs. small ship experience

☐ E ntertainment – Headline shows,

cabaret acts, comedy or dance clubs, casinos

☐ A ccommodations – inside cabins;

outside with a window or veranda; specialty cabins for spa or families or singles; suites or private suite enclaves

☐ D estinations – Warm-weather beach and sun trips; nature and scenery; history and culture; out of the way; exploration (i.e. Galapagos or Antarctica)

☐ L ength of trip – Cruises range from 3 to Photo courtesy of NCL

6

over 100 days with the largest segments being 3 to 5 days; 6 to 9 days; 10 to 14 days; or longer length between 20 and 50 or 100-plus days

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

Carnival Cruise Line, one of America’s most popular cruise brands, provides a broad range of vacations at sea for fun-loving families and passengers of all ages.

▸ FLEET SIZE

Twenty-six ships, ranging in size from its newest, the 4,008-passenger Carnival Panorama, to Fantasy-class ships that accommodate around 2,000 passengers.

▸ DESTINATIONS

Cruises between 2 and 16 days departing from ports around the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and internationally. Best known for Caribbean cruises, Carnival also sails to Mexico, Alaska, The Bahamas, Europe and Hawaii, and has ships sailing from Australia.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Carnival focuses on providing fun with a wide variety of entertainment, dining, amusements and family programs. Nearly half of the more than 1,800 cruises Carnival operates each year are shortdurations trips. Because its ships are homeported in

many U.S. cities, most people live within a day’s drive of a Carnival cruise.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Carnival Cruise Line is currently revamping its group programs and details will be available soon.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

The new Carnival Panorama started sailing from San Diego to the Mexican Riviera in December 2019. The largest ship in the line’s 48-year history will be introduced in 2020 with exciting features like the first roller coaster at sea. The line continues to enhance older ships in its fleet with dining and other amenities popular on the newer ships.

▸ AWARDS WON

Carnival earned top honors in six categories from the Cruise Hive Cruise Ship Awards in 2019,

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

Come back and experience the new Carnival.

There are now 26 refurbished Fun Ships in the fleet, and each ship sports new onboard excitement featuring Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint, RedFrog Rum Bar, Blue Iguana Tequila Bar, The Alchemy Bar, DJ IRIE, Punchliners Comedy Club and the Hasbro Game Show.

including Best Cruise Line, Best Cruise Ship Feature, Best New Cruise Ship of 2018 and Best Cruise Ship Dining Venue. Also recognized in Cruise Critic’s Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards in 2019 as Top Cruise Line in Hawaii for large ships and as one of the top large cruise lines in the Mexican Riviera and South Pacific.

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CELESTYAL CRUISES

Celestyal Cruises is the only Greek cruise line homeporting in Athens and operating cruises to the Greek Islands and Eastern Mediterranean.

▸ FLEET SIZE

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Operates two ships – the Celestyal Crystal (1,200 passengers) and Celestyal Olympia (1,664 passengers) – ideal for reaching smaller ports and destinations.

▸ DESTINATIONS

Offers 3-, 4- and 7-night Aegean cruises visiting Turkey and Greek isles such as Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete and Santorini. Other itineraries include visits to Egypt, Israel and Cyprus.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Focused on providing an authentic Greek cruise experience, Celeystal is destination-centric, featuring programs about Greek culture, serving Greek food and wine, and providing Greek hospitality and entertainment. An all-inclusive pricing policy includes select shore excursions and drinks as well as meals and gratuities.

For every 20 full-paying adults, you earn one free fare. Celeystal has a group amenities program that gives tour leaders the opportunity to select a discount or extra benefits. Groups of 37 guests or larger will have their own bus for excursions.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

Celestyal enters the Adriatic for the first time in 2020 and has other new itineraries as it works to expand from seasonal operations towards sailing year-round.

▸ AWARDS WON

Cruise Critic UK Editors’ Picks Award in December 2018 for Best Service and received four Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice Awards: two

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

Come and be serenaded by the romance of the Aegean on a seven-night Celestyal cruise. Visit the most enchanting islands, explore ancient Greek culture, folklore filled with Greek gods, history as old as the sea and fishing villages suspended in time.

Every week April – October.

first-place awards (for Shore Excursions and Value) and two second-place awards (for Service and Entertainment).

ALL-INCLUSIVE CRUISES 7 nights aboard Celestyal Crystal visiting: Athens | Kusadasi | Rhodes | Crete (Heraklion) | Santorini | Milos | Mykonos Includes: All meals onboard Unlimited drinks package Select excursions Entertainment onboard Gratuities Voyage highlights: Overnight stay in glamorous Santorini • 24 hours in Mykonos • A full day to explore Rhodes

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Contact US Tours for reservations and more information 304-485-8687 www.ustoursvoyages.com

PRINCESS CRUISES

Princess Cruises is a global premium cruise line focusing on destinations.

▸ FLEET SIZE

Princess has 18 cruise ships, each carrying between 2,000 and 3,560 passengers, plus one small ship (670 passengers).

▸ DESTINATIONS

More than 380 destinations around the globe, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexico, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia and Canada/New England. Its 170 annual itineraries range from three to 111 days.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Princess offers a full range of onboard amenities, dining options, entertainment and unique programming created in partnership with Discovery and Animal Planet. It also features wellness programs and children’s activities as well as destination immersion programs.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Group programs for five or more cabins include benefits such as cabin upgrades, low or no deposits to block space, combinable group fare discounts and a flexible amenity program. One tour conductor credit is awarded for every 16 full-fare, lowerberth passengers.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

Expanding activation across the fleet of its wearable technology device that lets passengers customize their cruise experience. Also offering new dining and destination programs. In 2019, Princess introduced a new ship and will launch four more new ships between 2020 and 2025.

▸ AWARDS WON

Awarded Best Cruise Itineraries 13 times by

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

You won’t know Alaska until you visit the interior. Voyages by U.S. Tours offers the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife and national parks from Princess cruise ships, combined with the Alaska Railroad and Princess wilderness lodges. Come see stunning glaciers, explore beautiful port cities and trek through Alaska’s untamed beauty.

Recommend magazine and recognized three years running by USA Today in its 10 Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards. Recently awarded three first-place accolades (Australia & New Zealand, the Baltic & Scandinavia and the U.S. & Canada) in Cruise Critic’s fourth annual Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards.

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NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

Norwegian Cruise Line features a wide range of dining and entertainment options on its contemporary cruise ships.

▸ FLEET SIZE

Of the line’s 17 ships, the largest are in the Breakaway and Breakaway Plus classes, carrying approximately 4,000 passengers and with the newest amenities.

Jewel-class ships carry 2,500 passengers, while those in Sun class hold 2,000 passengers. A new class of ships will start to enter service in 2022.

▸ DESTINATIONS

Nearly 300 destinations ranging from the Caribbean and Bahamas to Alaska, Bermuda, Asia, Australia, Canada/New England, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico and the Panama Canal. Cruises

range between 3 and 14 days, with special voyages up to 24 days. Norwegian has the industry’s only Americanflagged passenger ship (2,200 passengers) sailing weekly cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. Ports of call on Caribbean cruises include private-island destinations in the Bahamas and Belize.

▸ D ISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Norwegian Cruise Line offers guests its signature freedom and flexibility experience with no assigned dining times or dress codes.

It features a broad range of accommodations, including areas for suites and solo travelers that each have a private lounge, and there is a private restaurant and pool area for suite passengers. Dining options include the main dining room, casual buffet and grills; specialty dining (extra fee) ranges from Italian to French, BBQ, a steakhouse and Japanese-style hibachi grill. Amusements include outdoor sports areas, water slides and pools, with the newest ships offering rope courses, go-cart racetracks and laser tag. Entertainment options include headline shows, music clubs, a comedy club and deck parties.

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

Our favorite! NCL created FreeStyle Cruising.

They offer more open-air deck space, more choices in dining and entertainment including dance parties. Norwegian offers a wonderful world for you to see. From Hawaii and Alaska, New England and the Caribbean, Europe and the Med. Ask us about NCL’s many great promotions.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Group allotments can range from eight to 199 cabins. Norwegian recently updated its affinity program with discounts based on when the group is booked (six to 15 months before sailing), the ability to tailor the group experience with more amenities, accelerated tour conductor incentives and reduced deposits.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

The Norwegian Encore, introduced in November 2019, features amusements such as a go-cart racetrack, laser tag and virtual reality pavilion.

Norwegian is upgrading older ships in its fleet with enhanced decor and amenities. Itineraries are being enhanced with newer and larger ships in Alaska and new cruises in the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and South Pacific. By January 1, 2020, Norwegian will be the first major cruise line to eliminate plastic bottles across its entire fleet.

▸ AWARDS WON

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Norwegian was recently named Europe’s Leading Cruise Line by the World Travel Awards for the 12th consecutive year. Also recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Line for the seventh consecutive year and North America’s Leading Cruise Line for the fourth year in a row by the World Travel Awards. It was honored as Travvy Awards’ Silver Best Cruise Line, Contemporary in 2018, and in 2018 Top-Rated Cruise Line (Hawaii, Panama Canal & Central America, Mexican Riviera, South America & Antarctica) in Cruise Critic’s Cruisers’ Choice Awards.

AMERICAN QUEEN STEAMBOAT COMPANY

The American Queen Steamboat Company runs U.S.-flagged riverboats on the Mississippi and other rivers.

▸ FLEET SIZE

Paddlewheelers American Queen (417 passengers), American Duchess (166 passengers) and American Empress (221 passengers) will be joined in 2020 by the new American Countess (245 passengers).

▸ DESTINATIONS

Cruises ranging from five to 23 days operate along the Upper and Lower Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland rivers. Pacific Northwest cruises (five to nine days) sail on the Columbia and Snake rivers. Themed cruises, including Civil War, Mark Twain, American Music and Plantation Holidays, operate seasonally.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Cruises offer a unique perspective on America’s history, culture and landscape. American Queen provides an inclusive river cruise experience with pre-cruise hotel stays, complimentary wine and

beer with dinner, and shore excursions. Passengers enjoy regionally-inspired cuisine, Broadway-caliber entertainment and cultural enrichment lectures and experiences.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Substantial savings are offered on shoulder and off-peak cruises for groups along with one free bed for every 12 paid beds (maximum four) for the group leader. Minimum group size is five cabins, and group sales are supported with customizable materials.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

American Queen will introduce its newest vessel, the American Countess, in 2020, offering additional itineraries on the Mississippi River.

Also new in 2020: a food-themed BBQ voyage.

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

The best in American river cruising, AQSC offers four ships on America’s inland rivers and Voyages provides you with all-inclusive service. There’s never been a better time to rediscover America, and luxury service aboard the ships American Queen, Empress, Duchess and Countess is the perfect way to explore our heritage.

▸ AWARDS WON

Gold Winner in 2019 as the Best River Cruise Line – U.S. (Travvy Award) and Best River Cruise Line in U.S. & Canada in the Cruise Critic 2019 Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards. Also Editor’s Pick 2019 as the Best River Cruise Line for U.S. Sailing in the TravelAge West WAVE Awards.

LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER

– 2020 U.S. River Cruises –

see america from a new perspective

Experience a glimpse of life in the South.

OHIO, TENNESSEE AND CUMBERLAND RIVERS Explore American history and scenic river towns.

American Queen® ★ American Duchess™ ★ American Countess™ ★ American Empress®

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER Discover the world of Mark Twain.

COLUMBIA AND SNAKE RIVERS Follow the legacy of Lewis and Clark.

2020 INAUGURAL SEASON

AMERICAN COUNTESS

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VOYAGES BY U.S. TOURS (304) 485-8687 | USToursVoyages.com

VISIT US ONLINE FOR CURRENT PROMOTIONS! Fares from $1,199 per person.

CELEBRITY CRUISES

Celebrity Cruises is a premium-market cruise line known for its unique ship designs, culinary offerings, service and destinations.

▸ FLEET SIZE

Operates 11 cruise ships in three classes: Millennium (2,200 passengers); Solstice (2,850 passengers); and Edge (2,900 passengers); plus a new luxury ship (100 passengers) and a second smaller ship in the Galapagos.

▸ DESTINATIONS

Alaska, Asia, Australia, Bermuda, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Panama Canal, South America and the Galapagos, with cruises ranging between two and 17 nights.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Celebrity Cruises operates mid-sized ships featuring casual and sophisticated dining experiences and unique designs. Accommodations include dedicated spa and concierge cabins and suites as well as standard cabins. There is a broad range of onboard programming, including health

and wellness and activities for children and families.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Celebrity Cruises has two group programs created to provide flexibility based upon marketing strategies. Groups generally range in size from eight to 50 cabins (for larger meetings and charters). Group services include a dedicated concierge, flexible payments, rewards, dining and shore excursions.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

Second new ship in the Edge class is being introduced in 2020, while a $500 million revitalization is underway for existing ships.

New programs include dining partnership with Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud and entertainment by the American Ballet Theatre.

Also new: cruises departing from Tampa.

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

Voyages by U.S. Tours has secured space on the Celebrity Equinox in February 2021 sailing into New Orleans for Mardi Gras. This cruise features two nights in New Orleans, reserved balcony seating at a Mardi Gras parade! Knock this off of your bucket list and reserve your group today before it’s too late.

▸ AWARDS WON

Recognized in 2019 as Best Cruise Line Alaska in TravelAge West Magazine’s WAVE Awards as well as for the second consecutive year in 2019 as Best Cruise Line Southern Caribbean in Cruise Critic’s Cruisers’ Choice Awards. New Celebrity Edge was recently recognized in Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places.

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VICTORY CRUISE LINES

Victory Cruise Lines operates two small vessels cruising the Great Lakes, Canadian Maritimes and Eastern Seaboard.

▸ FLEET SIZE

The M/V Victory I and M/V Victory II, identical 202-passenger ocean-going coastal vessels, can easily navigate canal locks and bays due to their size.

▸ DESTINATIONS

North America’s five Great Lakes, the Canadian Maritimes, Eastern Seaboard, Mexico and Central America. Victory is the only cruise company offering ports of call on all five Great Lakes, with stops including Toronto, Montreal, Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland and Mackinac Island.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

With an emphasis on the destination, Victory offers an inclusive vacation with shore excursions and enrichment talks, with internet, Wi-Fi and non-premium wine, beer and spirits included in the fare. The ships sport a casual ambiance, with

fine dining, an English-style tavern, lounge, fitness center, salon and spa, elevator and a casual outdoor dining venue.

Staterooms (146 to 185 sq. ft.) have a walk-in shower and LCD flat-screen TV.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

Owned and managed by the American Queen, Victory Cruise Lines offers new cruise itineraries, with luxury all-inclusive service. Aboard a 1900s-style coastal cruiser. Ask us about the great discounted cruises we have available to you.

Groups are based on 10 or more doubleoccupancy cabins with one tour conductor credit for 12 full-paying passengers. Deposits ranging between $500 and $1,000 per person depending on the length of the cruise are due within seven days of adding names to the reservation.

upgrades, including pre- and post-cruise stays, will be offered. A new ship planned for 2021 will cruise between Alaska and British Columbia.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

▸ AWARDS WON

Recently acquired by American Queen Steamboat Company, the ships were refurbished in 2019. In 2020, six new itineraries and a number of premium shore excursion

Victory Cruise Lines received two Gold and two Silver Magellan awards from Travel Weekly. The company has been recognized for its marketing programs and interaction with the professional travel community.

GREAT LAKES

Explore the best of Canada and the United States.

BRAND-NEW ITINERARIES

SOUTHEAST U.S.A.

America’s Atlantic Coast gives way to a tropical destination.

YUCATÁN PENINSULA

Ancient culture meets modern splendor in festive Mexico.

COSTA RICA AND PANAMA

Experience Central America,from metropolis to mangrove forest.

FARES FROM

$2,699 PER PERSON.

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VOYAGES BY U.S. TOURS (304) 485-8687 | USToursVoyages.com

CUNARD LINE

One of the most storied names in shipping, Cunard Line continues its 179-year tradition operating Atlantic crossings and offers cruises in all parts of the world.

▸ FLEET SIZE

Cunard operates three large, luxury ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.

▸ DESTINATIONS

Cunard is the only line to offer regularly scheduled trans-Atlantic crossings between New York and Europe. It operates cruises in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, New England/Canada, Alaska, Asia, Australia, South America and Africa.

▸ DISCERNIBLE DIFFERENCES

Cunard’s appeal is a combination of British elegance, high levels of service, gourmet dining and world-class entertainment. Each ship offers luxury accommodations including the renowned Grill Suites. Cunard attracts an international mix of passengers with nearly 50 percent coming from markets outside the UK.

▸ GROUP POLICIES

Group space is available for a minimum of five double occupancy cabins. Cunard offers guaranteed space, group savings, earned tour conductor berths and guest amenities.

▸ WHAT’S NEW

In 2020-2021 Cunard’s ships will visit 94 destinations in 38 different countries, including maiden calls in Japan, Taiwan and New Zealand, and expanded cruise programs in Alaska, Australia and Japan. New voyages to Iceland, the Baltics and North Cape are scheduled for 2021. Cunard is also launching new onboard arts and entertainment programs. Construction has begun on a new ship due in 2022.

▸ AWARDS WON

Awarded #1 Mega-Ship Ocean Cruise Line by

▸ SUGGESTED VOYAGES

The British are coming! Celebrate Independence Day in Boston Harbor with English tea aboard the Queen Mary 2. We offer 1-for-8 tour conductor berths and a free cocktail party on this unique New England/ Canada cruise.

Travel + Leisure’s 2018, 2017 and 2016 World’s Best Awards; Best Large-Ship Cruise Line by Global Traveler’s 2019 Leisure Lifestyle Awards; Best Service, Best Onboard Enrichment and Best World Cruise by Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2018 Readers Choice Awards.

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INT’L

6

Emerging Destinations

FOR CLIENTS WHO HAVE BEEN EVERYWHERE OR JUST WANT TO VENTURE OFF THE BEATEN PATH, THERE ARE STILL PLACES IN THE WORLD THAT ARE RIPE FOR DISCOVERY

By Randy Mink

Photo courtesy of Michael S. Nolan/Lindblad Expeditions

D

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

iscriminating travelers are always looking for corners of the globe that have yet to be overtaken by mass tourism. Adventurous and culturally inclined, they seek the latest place, the new destination whose tourism is beginning to blossom. It might be remote Atlantic Ocean islands, a tiny African kingdom or an untrampled part of Europe off most peoples’ radar.

The following destinations may soon appear— if they haven’t already—on the bucket lists of intrepid globetrotters with dreams to fulfill, countries to “collect” and experiences they can tell their friends and neighbors about.

Lindblad Expeditions takes intrepid travelers to icy Antarctica.

December 2019 ■ 79

Tiger’s Nest Monastery

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■ December 2019

Photo courtesy of Variety Cruises

The town of Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente, Cape Verde

Cape Verde. A former Portuguese colony and slave trade outpost in the Atlantic Ocean west of Africa, this archipelago of volcanic origin offers a spellbinding blend of African and Portuguese influences in its architecture, food, customs and traditions. Blessed with crystal-clear waters and a pleasant year-round climate with temperatures around 70 degrees, the Republic of Cape Verde has diverse scenery, from verdant mountain ranges and jungles to volcanic terrain and wide, deserted beaches.

Variety Cruises’ 49-passenger mega-

Antarctica. The seventh continent remains a bucket-list destination for travelers who have been to the other six, and the choices for cruise vacations to the land of penguins and icebergs continue to expand.

The newest ships heading across the often rough Drake Passage from Uruguay or Argentina, en route to Antarctica, are more comfortable and technologically advanced than ever. Aurora Expeditions’ recently launched Greg Mortimer, carrying an average of 126 guests, is the first passenger vessel in the world to utilize the patented Ulstein X-BOW technology, an inverted bow design that enables a ship to pierce the waves of the Drake Passage with much greater stability than a traditional bow. The ship also boasts hydraulic viewing platforms that fold out for obstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds. Hurtigruten’s new hybrid electric-powered Fridtjof Nansen offers three restaurants and such amenities

yacht Harmony V offers eight-day sailings (through March 2021) that visit six of the 10 main islands. Optional shore excursions visit beaches, colorful villages and wellpreserved colonial cities, and there is ample time in each port, including overnights in some. The ship’s swimming platform allows guests to go snorkeling. Each cruise has an onboard naturalist. Variety Cruises, which was named World’s Best Boutique Cruise Line in the 2016 USA Today Readers Choice Awards, is the largest mega-yacht operator in the Mediterranean.

Awesome Antarctica Photo courtesy of Michael S. Nolan/Lindblad Expeditions

Bhutan. It’s remote, expensive and unknown to all but the most world-wise travelers, but this Himalayan paradise is getting more and more attention these days. In fact, it’s ranked No. 1 among countries to visit next year in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020. Declares Lonely Planet writer Joe Bindloss: “A dozen nations vie for the title of real-life Shangri-La, but Bhutan’s claim has more clout than most.”

Among Bhutan’s claims to fame: it is the world’s only carbon-negative country and in 2020 is expected to be the first fully organic nation. Flights to the international airport at Paro are available from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand and Singapore. The tiny mountain kingdom charges a high daily fee just to enter its beautiful, pine-scented confines, so that keeps the crowds away. Entry is possible only on an organized tour.

Trekkers in Bhutan take in views of snow-capped mountains and ridges crowned with Buddhist monasteries.

Clinging to a sheer mountain wall, the must-see Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) is worth the steep hike.

Even in Thimphu, Bhutan’s fast-growing capital, mountain trails are just minutes away. As Lonely Planet’s Bhutan chapter reveals, “Bhutan’s people keep their mountain kingdom in pristine condition: litter is rare, pollution rarer, and the scent of blue pines wafts through the street like incense during one of the kingdom’s spectacular festivals.”

as a sauna, two hot tubs and an infinity pool; half of the 265 cabins have private balconies.

Other companies offering Antarctica cruises include Ponant, Silversea, Seabourn, Lindblad Expeditions and Quark Expeditions. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

eSwatini. Newly named eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) presents a fresh destination for safari-goers. The land of King Mswati III, Africa’s last absolute monarchy, is rated by Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020 as the fifth best country to

Wildlife wonders

visit next year. Matt Phillips, Lonely Planet digital editor on eSwatini, calls it “one of Southern Africa’s most underrated (and least visited) destinations.” Most travelers enter the kingdom by road from South Africa, but there are flights from Johannesburg to the new international airport.

With a strong commitment to wildlife conservation and a friendlier, safer feeling than its larger neighbor, little eSwatini offers a number of national parks and game reserves.

The continent’s best rhino encounters (some on foot) take place at Mkhaya Game Reserve, a refuge for both the white and rare black species; the reserve accommodates guests in luxury, open-sided cottages. The country’s largest protected area, Hlane Royal National Park, boasts lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes and zebras as well as rhinos. Mountain trekking and whitewater rafting on the Great Usutu River are among the more adventurous options in eSwatini.

A volcanic crater lake in the Azores

Azores. The beauty of Mother Nature takes center stage in this cluster of nine idyllic islands, an autonomous region of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Divided into three groups, the remote isles are only a five-hour flight from Boston or New York, or two hours by air from mainland Portugal. With volcanic crater lakes, natural hot springs, geysers and black-sand beaches, signs of geothermal activity are everywhere. Vacationers enjoy bathing in thermal waters and taking part in outdoor activities, which range from whale-watching LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

to kayaking, paragliding, diving and hiking.

Each island has its own landscapes and cultural traditions. Sao Miguel, the largest isle, has tea estates that have been producing organic black, green and orange pekoe tea since 1883. This is the only region in Europe that cultivates tea.

Many Portuguese tour operators, some with offices on the U.S. East Coast, offer packages that include several islands. The Azores are starting to appear on the radar of more tour planners, so it’s advisable to go before mass tourism takes over.

Church of Sveti Jovan on Lake Ohrid

North Macedonia. This small, landlocked Balkan nation, known as simply Macedonia until a 2018 agreement with neighboring Greece that ended decades of political debate, ranks No. 3 on Lonely Planet’s list of countries to visit in 2020.

Tourists come here for the untouched wilderness, wine-tasting, and Old World experiences reflecting Greek, Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman traditions.

Sightseeing highlights include the ancient, fresco-covered churches and monasteries on Lake Ohrid, an area now served by more international flights. In the capital city, Skopje, one magnet is the Ottoman Bazaar, where visitors shop for crafts and relax at cafes while soaking in the market’s five centuries of history. Another Skopje attraction is 6th century Tvrdina Kale Fortress. In the country’s center is the Tikves Wine District, which produces some of the Balkans’ best wines. Active travelers in North Macedonia will want to tackle the recently launched High Scardus Trail along the region’s most dramatic peaks.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020 ($17.99, 217 pp.) spotlights the hottest countries, regions and cities around the world, and what makes them prime for a visit next year. Filled with lavish color photography, the hard-bound volume also covers 2020 attraction openings and new food experiences.

The best-selling book, now in its 15th edition, has a landing page (lonelyplanet. com/best-in-travel) that features tips and videos on visiting each destination.

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INT’L TOUR IDEAS

Terrific Tenerife

The largest of Spain’s Canary Islands offers scenic splendor and culinary treats

W

here in the world are the Canary Islands? Ask someone their location on the map, and you’ll get all kinds of answers.

The Caribbean? South Pacific? In the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa?

The last answer, as the travel-savvy know, is the correct one.

The subtropical group of volcanic isles lies 62 miles west of Morocco at the closest point. Though Spanish territory, the Canaries cluster sits more than 600 miles from mainland Spain. So, they’re a part of Spain, but apart from it— separated physically and with a distinctive culture. Each of the seven main islands, moreover, has its own personality and topographical characteristics.

Tenerife, the largest, and others in the chain appear on Western Mediterranean, transatlantic and around-the-world cruise itineraries. Cunard Line offer cruises from

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■ December 2019

Lava rocks rim the dramatic coastline of Garachico, a town on Tenerife’s northern coast.

England to the Canaries, a fun-and-sun beach spot long popular with British vacationers.

Touting spring-like weather all year, promotional literature claims the Canary Islands enjoy “the best climate in the world” thanks to a “generous supply of sunshine pleasantly tempered by the trade winds.”

Temperatures rarely exceed the low 80s.

For those intrigued by geographical curiosities, the Atlantic archipelago is a

bucket-list destination.

Tenerife, a three-hour flight from Madrid via Iberia Airlines, extends 60 miles in length and ranges from 10 to 30 miles wide. But this relatively small package has a surprising amount of natural diversity and a number of microclimates. In just a few miles the scenery and weather can change dramatically. The arid, sunny south is divided from the lush verdant north by a >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

Photos courtesy of Randy Mink

By Randy Mink

mountainous landscape that splits the island into two different worlds. You will find beach resorts (mostly in the south) and golf courses, pine forests and barren deserts, urban congestion and quiet villages.

Because much of Tenerife is extremely hilly, agricultural land is scarce, so terraces have been built for vineyards, banana plantations and potato fields. In the island’s middle stands Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain and centerpiece of a national park. Half the island consists of protected nature areas.

City Sightseeing Cruise travelers and others get their first taste of Tenerife upon arrival at Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the biggest city (pop. 250,000) in the Canaries. Though the port area has a commercial feel—with container ships, gantry cranes, oil tankers and interisland ferries—the city’s pleasant waterfront promenade is just a minute by shuttle from the cruise piers.

At Plaza de Espana, the hub of harborside activity, oversized letters spelling out “Santa Cruz” present a great photo op. A historical marker explains how Lord Nelson and the British Navy tried to conquer the island in a 1797 battle that saw Nelson being shot by a cannon at that very spot. Spain was victorious, and Nelson had to have his right arm amputated upon returning to the ship.

The plaque’s inscription ends, “Praise and glory to the heroes!” In the middle of the square are a pool and giant monument to victims of the 1936-39 Spanish Civil War. A 15-minute walk from the plaza takes you to the city’s historic district and Church of the Conception. Built in 1500 and reconstructed several times since, it sports a prominent bell tower, wooden balcony, and rustic interior with a magnificent altar, beamed ceiling and round arches of reddish volcanic stone.

Nearby, the new Carnival Museum showcases Santa Cruz’s famous Carnival celebration, one of the biggest and most exotic in Europe. The week leading up to Lent is highlighted by a parade—said to rival that of Rio de Janeiro—lasting six or seven hours. Museum exhibits include videos of the procession and street parties, along with displays of costumes adorned with feathers, beads, spangles and sequins.

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree

Bus tours of Santa Cruz typically include a stop at the Auditorio de Tenerife, an architecturally stunning performing arts center perched on the oceanfront. Designed by famed architect Salvador Calatrava and opened in 2003, this opera/classical music venue in shimmering white ceramic is known for its graceful contours, most notably the wave-like protrusion that arches over the hall.

Like the Sydney Opera House, the auditorium has become a symbol of the city.

the majesty of 12,198-foot Mount Teide.

Rising from a volcanic crater that has been dormant since 1909, the peak is snowcovered from October to May—quite a phenomenon considering the subtropical clime. The surrounding lava beds, a desertlike plain, resemble a Western movie set.

Some Teide excursions include a cable car ride to the chilly mountaintop. This above-the-clouds experience deposits you at the 11,646-foot level, where viewpoints afford panoramas of the lava-carved landscapes and the sure-footed can venture off on a path through craggy rocks. Look up behind you and watch hardy hikers climbing the final 600 feet, a near-vertical ascent to the summit.

As many amateur astronomers are aware, the Canary archipelago, with its clear skies and low level of light pollution, is recognized as one of the world’s best places to view the night skies (along with Chile and Hawaii).

Stargazing excursions involve traveling to Teide’s cable car base station, where guides

La Laguna’s Colonial Charms For an enchanting glimpse into the Old World, be sure to visit the beautifully preserved historic quarter of La Laguna, a lively university city next to Santa Cruz. Commune with the past in a traffic-free zone of stone walkways and atmospheric squares, stopping to admire the churches, convents, and carved pine balconies and doors of mansions occupied by nobility between the 16th and 18th centuries.

Through carved-rock portals, peek into leafy courtyards with flowers and fountains. Many of the old homes, painted in colors like peach, salmon, ochre and blue, now house businesses or other organizations; a few are museums. Art galleries and designer boutiques are also worth a look at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. La Laguna was Tenerife’s first capital.

Trips To Mount Teide A favorite Tenerife excursion is the drive to Teide National Park for views of the island’s signature natural landmark. Along the route, which passes through a canopy of pines, are photo stops for capturing December 2019 ■ 83

INT’L TOUR IDEAS

The charming historic quarter of La Laguna, a colonial gem

point out planets and stars visible to the naked eye or through long-range telescopes.

Tenerife’s Eastern End Scenic tours from Santa Cruz not only go to the island’s center but to its eastern and western extremities, which also boast rugged vistas. Northeast of the city, winding roads with hairpin turns snake through the Anaga Mountains, a land of lush ravines, craggy peaks, sheer walls of basalt rock and houses stacked on hillsides. Vegetation varies from palms and ferns to cactus and agave.

After a short boardwalk trek in the primeval laurel woodlands of Anaga Rural Park, your bus tour continues to sea level, where the road ends at the village of Taganana. Here at the “end of the world,” tour groups stop for tapas or lunch at Bar Playa Africa, a family-run place located across the road from crashing waves and a black-sand beach.

Furnished with blue-checked tablecloths and populated by resident cats, the cheery spot serves seafood accompanied by delightfully 84

■ December 2019

salty papas arrugadas, or wrinkled potatoes.

The small, unpeeled potatoes are boiled in salty water—sometimes seawater—and tossed with additional salt once cooked and drained. Served with most dishes throughout the islands, they are typically eaten with red or green mojo sauce on the side. The ubiquitous mojo—made with vinegar, olive oil, garlic, toasted almonds and salt—is also used as a condiment with bread and other foods.

As if those little salty potatoes are not addictive enough, spread your bread with almogrote, a Canarian indulgence made with cured goat cheese, hot red peppers, olive oil, garlic and sometimes tomatoes. A jar of the rich paste makes a great souvenir.

Traveling around Tenerife, you’ll be captivated by the odd-looking dragon tree, a bush-like mass of entwined branches with spiky leaves at the top. In the northwestern coastal town of Icod de los Vinos, tour groups stop at the Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree. Believed to be one of the oldest such trees in existence, it was declared a national

monument in 1917. In a stately building at the site of the dragon tree and adjacent botanical garden, the shop La Casa del Drago has a courtyard cafe where guests can try the red liqueur made from dragon tree fruit.

Canarian wines, praised by Shakespeare in several plays, are highly regarded and sold around the world. Tenerife has more than 100 wineries. In the historic town of El Sauzal, Bodega Monje is a fifthgeneration winery that produces 14 types of wine, with about 20 percent of the total being exported to the U.S. One of three Tenerife wineries offering tours, it operates a restaurant with a patio overlooking the Atlantic and terraces planted with vines that are 100 to 300 years old.

A feast for the palate as well as the eyes, Tenerife offers abundant pleasures for the inquisitive traveler. This largest Canary isle, with all its diversity, is certainly something to sing—or tweet—about.

For more information, visit Tenerife Tourism Corporation, webtenerife.com. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

GROUP-FRIENDLY CASINOS

GREAT PLACES FOR GAMING Not sure where to take your next group trip? You may want to check out these group-friendly gaming destinations. Today, casinos offer much more than just slot machines. Complete with a multitude of gaming options, unique dining experiences, endless entertainment possibilities and luxurious hotel accommodations, your group will hit the jackpot when staying at these casino destinations.

HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CASINO RESORT CHEROKEE, NORTH CAROLINA

Nestled at the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a mile from the North Carolina entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Harrah’s Cherokee has everything your group needs.

The Southeast’s premier casino offers 3,800 slots and 100+ table games. Guests will enjoy pampering at Mandara Spa and have preferred access to Sequoyah National Golf Club. The 21-story hotel has 1,108 rooms, with access to an indoor and outdoor pool. Chef’s Stage Buffet and Ruth’s Chris Steak House are just a couple of the wide variety of dining options offered. (harrahscherokee.com)

Meet AC

iStock.com/fergregory

Atlantic City, New Jersey

LeisureGroupTravel.com <<

While in town, try your luck on the table games or slot machines at any of the area’s nine casinos, including Bally’s Atlantic City, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Caesars at Atlantic City, Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, Resorts Casino Hotel, Tropicana Casino Resort, Hard Rock Atlantic City and Ocean Casino Resort. Take in a show, dine at a celebrity chef-driven hideaway or luxuriate in a spa. (touratlanticcity.com)

December 2019 ■ 85

GROUP-FRIENDLY CASINOS

Mohegan Sun

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

Mohegan Sun is a premier Northeast destination for event planners with a 125,000-square-foot Expo Center, two gorgeous ballrooms and more than 45 meeting rooms in total, not to mention outdoor terrace space adjacent to the 1,113 squarefoot Wolf Boardroom. The 275,000 square feet of meetings space joins 1,600 luxury hotel rooms, over 80 restaurant, shops and nightlife locations, as well as multiple award-winning entertainment venues. Mohegan Sun is located within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence. Call 1-877204-7100 for more information. (mohegansun.com)

It’s all happening at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, Milwaukee. Open 24/7, the newly expanded Midwest Entertainment Destination features over 2,500 of the hottest slot machines, nearly 100 table games, bingo, poker and off-track betting, alongside seven restaurants, bars, Topgolf Swing Suite, a 500-seat theater, over 70,000 square feet of event space, a full-service spa and 500 luxury hotel rooms. Plan your visit today to experience the best in gaming and entertainment —all under one roof. (paysbig.com)

Uncasville, Connecticut

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

IT’S ALL HAPPENING. VISIT THE MIDWEST’S #1 ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION! • Over 2,500 Slots

• Poker & Off-Track Betting

• Topgolf® Swing Suite

• Nonstop Bingo Action

• 7 Restaurants

• Ember Salon & Spa

• Nearly 100 Table Games

• Live Entertainment

• 500-Room Luxury Hotel

For day trip groups of 10+ and/or overnight stays Sun.–Wed. with 20+ rooms, contact Tour & Travel at 414-847-7910 or TourAndTravel@paysbig.com and mention Leisure Group Travel & Circle WI! For overnight stays Thurs.–Sat. with 10+ rooms, contact Sales & Catering at 414-847-8600 or sales@paysbig.com.

1721 WEST CANAL STREET | MILWAUKEE, WI 53233 | 1-800-PAYSBIG | PAYSBIG.COM | OPEN 24/7 MUST BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OLD TO ENTER CASINO; 18 TO PLAY BINGO | WINNERS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TAXES MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS | GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-426-2535 ©2019 FOREST COUNTY POTAWATOMI COMMUNITY, WISCONSIN

19 Leisure Group Travel & Circle WI Print Ad.indd 86 ADV20009-Nov 2019 ■ December

1

10/17/19 12:32 PM >> LeisureGroupTravel.com

ALL ROADS LEAD TO

MOHEGAN SUN Sign up your group for a bus charter today

BONUS $30 CASINO INCENTIVE PACKAGE* Monday – Friday Package consists of: One $15 Meal/Retail Credit and One $15 Free Bet Coupon Meal/Retail credit can be used in any restaurant, a full buffet or shop at Mohegan Sun.

BONUS $25 CASINO INCENTIVE PACKAGE* Saturday – Sunday Package consists of: One $15 Meal/Retail Credit and One $10 Free Bet Coupon Meal/Retail credit can be used in any restaurant, a full buffet or shop at Mohegan Sun.

Group Leaders receive an additional $30 PACKAGE Contact Stephen Olender at 860.862.8988 or solender@mohegansun.com or visit mohegansun.com/charter to get your next outing on the road today. * In order to receive package, bus group must stay for a minimum of 5 hours. Packages and offer subject to change without notice. mohegansun.com

Casino, Milwaukee, WI V isit Lake County, IL V isit Milwaukee, WI V isit Winona, MN W orthington Area CVB, MN

Owatonna, MN







City, MD

NATIONAL (all) M ayflower Cruises & Tours  S t. Lawrence Cruise Lines, Inc.



Gold Canyon, AZ V isit Colorado Springs, CO

WEST (all)  A rizona Renaissance Festival,

M ohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT  O cean City CVB, MD

Commerce, MD

 G arrett County Chamber of

   

Pigeon Forge, TN S evierville CVB, TN S hular Hospitality Group T our Smokies V isit NC Smokies, NC

 P igeon Forge Snow, TN  P ink Jeep Tours, Pigeon Forge, TN  R ed Skelton Tribute Theater,

      

County CVB I ndiana State Park Inns K osciusko County CVB L agrange/Shipshewana County CVB M uncie Visitors Bureau S oIN Tourism S outh Shore CVA T he Shrine of Christ’s Passion, St John

 H istoric Corydon/Harrison

2) Stamp and mail

       

RESPOND BY JAN. 15

Voyages Cruise Guide  A merican Queen  C arnival Cruise Line  C elebrity Cruises  C elestyal Cruises  C unard Line  N orwegian Cruise Line  P rincess Cruises  U .S. Tours  V ictory Cruise Lines

Warsaw

Vincennes/Knox County CVB Visit Fort Wayne Visit French Lick West Baden Visit Hendricks County Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette Visit Madison Indiana Visit South Bend Mishawaka Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts,

 Visit Champaign County, IL  Visit Cherokee Nation, OK  Visit Colorado Springs, CO  Visit French Lick West Baden, IN  Visit NC Smokies  Visit Sacramento, CA  Wolf Trap Foundation, Vienna, VA

Huntsville, AL

 U.S. Space and Rocket Center,

Norwalk, CT

 The Maritime Aquarium at

Marino, CA

 The Huntington Library, San

County, IL

Tourism, TN

 Randolph County CVB, IN  Shoreline Sightseeing, Chicago, IL  Sioux Falls CVB, SD  Sullivan Chamber/Visit Moultrie

 Pigeon Forge Department of

3) Fax to 630-794-0652

REQUIRED Date _____________ Signature _______________________________

Please contact me via:  Mail  Call me at _____________________________________  Email me at ___________________________________________

   

& Grill, Sevierville, TN Clarion Inn, Pigeon Forge, TN Holiday Inn, Knoxville, TN Knoxville CVB, TN Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, TN

Smoky Mountain Tour Guide  Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant

 Dearborn County CVTB  Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau

Indianapolis

 Anderson/Madison County VCB  Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre,

Indiana

Indiana Tour Planner  Amish Country of Northern

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G ettysburg Foundation, PA G rand Opera House, Dubuque, IA Library & Museum, Springfield, IL G reat Rivers & Routes Tourism, IL Akron/Summit CVB, OH H istoric Corydon/Harrison County Arizona Renaissance Festival, Gold CVB, IN Canyon, AZ  H olland Tulip Time Festival, MI ATL Airport District, GA  J amestown-Yorktown Atlantic City/Meet AC, NJ Foundation, VA Bellingrath Gardens and Home,  J elly Belly Candy Company, Theodore, AL Fairfield, CA Celebration River Cruises,  J elly Belly Visitor Center, Moline, IL Pleasant Prairie, WI Chicago Southland CVB, IL  J oplin CVB, MO Cincinnati Railway Company, OH  L incoln CVB, NE Colonial Williamsburg M all of America, Bloomington, MN Foundation, VA  N ational Baseball Hall of Fame, Crystal Coast Tourism Authority, NC Cooperstown, NY Experience Columbus, OH  O ttawa Visitors Center, Ottawa, IL Frank Lloyd Wright Trust,  Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum Chicago, IL of Science, Miami, FL

   

Center (continued)

Group Travel Destinations  Abraham Lincoln Presidential

THREE CONVENIENT WAYS TO RETURN: 1) Email readerservices@ptmgroups.com

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

 P otawatomi Hotel and

Winona, MN

 



EAST (all)  A tlantic City/Meet AC, NJ  B oardwalk Hotel Group, Ocean

Select all that are of interest.

Commission, LA C heekwood Estate and Gardens, Nashville, TN C oral Castle, Miami, FL H arrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, Cherokee, NC H ilton Garden Inn Louisville Mall St. Matthews, KY H oliday Inn Express Louisville Downtown, KY S t. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & the Beaches, FL T ennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga, TN

SOUTH (all)  A scension Parish Tourism

 O watonna Tourism Bureau,

M arine Art Museum,

Festival, Winona, MN

CENTRAL (all)  D iscover Austin Minnesota  G reat River Shakespeare

Center

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