Kaleidoscope of Iceland from $3,009

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 11 days/9 nights
  • Round trip flights New York-Reykjavik
  • 9 nights first class accommodations
  • All transfers
  • 15 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in a modern, air-conditioned motorcoach
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • All airline taxes and fees
11-DAY Kaleidoscope of iceland

Your adventure begins with a city tour of Reykjavik, including a stop at Perlan, which offers a spectacular view over the capital area. Journey into the countryside at the magnificent Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the picturesque harbor village of Arnarstapi, with its magnificent columnar basalt rock formations.

Visit Akureyri, cultural capital of the North, visit to the Botanical Gardens. Travel through the Héôinsfjörôur Tunnel to the historic herring-fishing town of Siglufjörôur, the nearest town to the Arctic Circle. In Lake Myvatn, stop at the majestic two-tiered Goðafoss Waterfall, named the “Waterfall of the Gods”, and see the bizarre lava formations at Dimmuborgir. View the Dettifoss Waterfall, with sounds so thunderous that it makes the surrounding rocks vibrate.

Discover the might of the Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in all of Europe with several still-active volcanoes situated underneath the ice cap. Visit Skaftafell National Park, then make your way to Dyrhólaey and the grand Skógarfoss Waterfall. Watch the Strokkur Geyser erupt every few minutes, spewing hot water high into the air, and marvel at the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls), and much more!


VIEW ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart for Iceland
Catch your flight in New York headed to Iceland.

Day 2: Arrive Iceland
Early morning arrival in Iceland, “Land of the Midnight Sun”. Transfer from Keflavik airport to your hotel in Reykjavik. Later this morning, enjoy a orientation tour of the city. Your first stop is at Bessastaðir, where you can see the residence of the Icelandic President. The tour traverses the old town center to the Parliament, the Cathedral, the harbor, the National Museum and the Höfdi House, site of the 1986 Iceland Summit where Reagan and Gorbachev met. The tour also includes a stop at Perlan, located on the Öskjuhlid hill, which offers a spectacular view over the capital area. Pass by the outdoor swimming pool heated by geothermal waters and a museum dedicated to the renowned sculptor Asmundur Sveinsson. Tonight, enjoy a welcome drink and meeting with your tour manager and fellow travelers.
Stay: Reykjavík Natura, Reykjavik

Day 3: Snæfellsnes National Park, Stykkishólmur Harbor
Begin your journey into the countryside at the magnificent Snæfellsnes Peninsula with its striking Snæfellsjökull Glacier, Jules Verne’s mysterious entrance to the center of the earth. In this thriving community with rich cultural diversity, view the coastline dotted with small villages and bustling harbors. Then, on to the expansive black sea shore of Djúpalónssandur and the picturesque harbor village of Arnarstapi, with its magnificent columnar basalt rock formations. At the Stykkishólmur harbor, opportunity to join the unique optional Breidafjördur Fjord Boat Tour, including bird watching and tastings of scallops fresh from the sea. Dinner at the hotel later this evening.
Stay: Hotel Stykkisholmur, Stykkisholmur

Day 4: Akureyri, Botanical Gardens
Today, an early departure to Akureyri, cultural capital of the North, nestled at the head of Iceland’s greatest fjord, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks. An orientation tour familiarizes us with the city’s history as a trading center established in 1602. You can still see some of the finest timber buildings in the country, beautifully restored to their original glory. Enjoy a visit to the Botanical Gardens featuring specimens of almost all native Icelandic plants. Then, walk through the energetic center of the city with its lively cafes and handicraft shops.
Stay: 3 nights: Hotel Kea, Akureyri

Day 5: Héðinsfjörður Tunnel, Siglufjörður in North Iceland
Travel through the Héðinsfjörður Tunnel to the historic herring-fishing town of Siglufjörður, the nearest town to the Arctic Circle, clinging to a dramatic fjord on the very edge of Iceland’s steep northernmost mountains. On the tour of the award-winning Herring Era Museum, we’re introduced to the history of the very important herring fishing industry. Sample traditional rye bread, local herring and also the famous iced Icelandic schnapps! Leisure time to explore Siglufjörður. Stop at the picturesque harbor to watch fishermen mending their nets and see the fish hanging out to dry. Wander through the art galleries, cafes and shops. At the end of the day, return to Akureyri via the villages of Ólafsfjörður and Dalvík .

Day 6: Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss Waterfall, Natural Baths
Today head to lovely Lake Mývatn, with its crystal-blue waters, in one of Iceland’s prettiest areas, known for its geothermal activity. Stop at the majestic two-tiered Goðafoss Waterfall, named the “Waterfall of the Gods” according to Icelandic sagas, equivalent in size to Niagara. In this paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, scenes were filmed for some of the Game of Thrones episodes. After a day of traversing spectacular landscapes of craters, boiling mud pots, and geothermal hot springs shooting jets of hot water and steam into the air, see the pseudo craters at Skútustaði and the bizarre lava formations at Dimmuborgir. Perhaps, opt to end the day with a swim in the warm waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths.

Day 7: Dettifoss Waterfall, Hornafjörður
Today you will head east to view the Dettifoss Waterfall, reputed to be the most powerful and largest in Europe. Located in Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland, this waterfall is so thunderous that it makes the surrounding rocks vibrate. Afterward, drive along the barren highlands with their moon-like landscape to the sprawling town of Egilsstaðir, center for local activity. Stop for lunch in town before proceeding south through the breathtaking scenery of the remote eastern fjords to Hornafjörður. Arrive in this small fishing town dominated by large mountains, wide rivers and the ever-present and compelling Vatnajökull Glacier. Dinner together tonight at the hotel.
Stay 2 nights: Hotel Höfn, Höfn

Day 8: Vatnajökull Glacier, Hoffell Farms
Discover the might of the Vatnajökull Glacier today, formed thousands of years ago, the largest glacier in all of Europe with several still-active volcanoes situated underneath the ice cap. Explore some of the glacier’s many astonishing outlets. In the afternoon, visit to typical working farms in the Hoffell area, at the base of the mountain, before returning in time for dinner together at the hotel.

Day 9: Skaftafell National Park, South Shore, Hvolsvöllur
Amazing scenery awaits us today in the unique alpine setting of Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful mountainous region on the edge of the Vatnajokull Glacier. This national park has been shaped by natural forces acting together to create a park of unmatched beauty as a result of glaciers and volcanoes slowly interacting over time. It’s a perfect place to view the great contrasts between active volcanoes, mighty glaciers, powerful rivers and endless flat sandy plains. Watch the dramatic scenery of outwash plains and lava fields go by as we make our way to Dyrhólaey, a solitary cliff teeming with bird life and the grand Skógarfoss Waterfall, rivaling Gullfoss as Iceland’s most famous waterfall. Then, a fascinating visit to the Þorvaldseyri Volcano Visitors’ Center. Here we view a film about this little volcano that created worldwide havoc in 2010 disrupting flights with its massive ash cloud. Learn how the local farmers survived the eruptions. Dinner and overnight stay in the Hvolsvöllur area.
Stay: Hvolsvöllur

Day 10:  Gullfoss Waterfall, Strokkur Geysir, Thingvellir, Reykjavík
This morning, stand upon one of the globe’s most geologically significant landscapes on the volcanic rift at the Strokkur Geyser, watch it erupt every few minutes spewing hot water high into the air. Marvel at the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls) with its 100 foot double cascade flowing into the Hvita River. From there, on to Thingvellir National Park, the nation’s most historic area, where the world’s oldest existing Parliament met in 930 AD, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then visit the Friðheimar Tomato and Horse Farm. Here, meet with young Icelanders who innovated a process for growing tomatoes in bumble-bee nurtured greenhouses. See the beautiful Icelandic Horses and watch them perform before continuing to Reykjavik. Return to Reykjavik for an evening at leisure to explore this energetic city on your own. Perhaps choose to dine in one of the world-class restaurants on traditional Icelandic fish, or visit a lively pub, stylish club or stop at a cozy café in the trendy harbor area .
Stay: Reykjavík Natura, Reykjavik

Day 11: Depart for the USA
After breakfast, depart for the airport for your flight back to the USA.

Pricing & Departures

Apr 7, 21, 2016 $3,009
May 26, 2016 $3,509
Jun 9, 23; Jul 14; Aug 11, 2016 $3,949
Sep 1, 2016 $3,599
Sep 15, 22, 2016 $3,499
request-quote

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • Prices include all airline taxes and fees
  • Prices are per person based on double occupancy
  • Prices are subject to availability
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
  • All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

10 Helpful Tips for Packing Light

With practically every airline charging fees for checked bags these days, and some charging for carry-on, many travelers are trying to find ways to minimize what they pack.

Packing light has many advantages besides just avoiding airline fees. For example, you don’t have to stand around for an hour waiting for your bags to show up on the baggage carrousel upon arrival at your destination and there’s no chance that your bags will be lost or damaged en route. It’s also easier to get through busy airports and train stations with fewer and smaller bags, and it makes it simple to take public transportation, rather than relying on high cost taxis and limos.

Here are some tips and suggestions for packing light, and fitting all your travel luxuries into one easy, carry-on bag.

1. Make a Packing List base on items and clothing that you know you’ll need on your trip and stick to it! Try to avoid bringing items that you think you might need.

2. Wear layered clothing when you travel, that stretches and breathes giving you more room in your bag.

3. Pack wrinkle-free clothing as much as possible.

4. Rolling your clothes instead of laying them flat in the bag will provide more space.

5. Select one or two color scheme. Sometimes it’s a good idea to add a few items with dark patterns, such as plaids as they help hide wrinkles, stains and dirt.

6. Reversible clothing, especially tops, are great choices since they effectively double your clothing choices.

7. Pack clothing that will dry quickly as you may need to wash some items during your trip.

8. Consider using a dual-purpose bag (suitcase/backpack combined) if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking.

9. To simplify things for yourself, consider buying toiletries such as shampoo and toothpaste during your trip.

10. Make sure to follow the TSA 3-1-1 Liquid Rules;

Any liquid or gel packed in your carry-on bag must fit in a container that is a maximum of 3 ounces.
1 Quart: Containers carrying your liquids and gels must be packed in a clear, plastic bag that is no larger than 1 quart and has to be able to close completely.

1 Person: Every person is allowed to bring one clear, quart-size bag of properly sized containers noted above. Many stores have increase their supply of toiletries that meet the TSA guidelines.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next vacation!

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef

If you’re planning a trip to the land down under, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-see! The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s single largest coral system. With the broad, shallow continental shelf of tropical northeastern Australia providing an ideal pedestal for growth, this coral complex reaches as far as 160 miles offshore and more than 1,250 miles from north to south. The Great Barrier Reef covers 135,000 square miles and is home to more than 400 types of coral reef, colorful fish and sea life. It can be viewed by boat, plane, helicopter, or underwater observatories. There are hundreds of tour options available for viewing and experiencing the Great Barrier Reef, something for everyone! These are some of the Great Barrier Reef Tour options available: ·Diving. There are several different tours available daily for divers, departing from Cairns and Port Douglas. Tours are typically between 6 – 9 hours, include lunch and the vessels range from small high speed luxury catamarans, to large catamarans that have their own platforms on the outer reef. ·Snorkeling. These tours are very similar to the dive tours, except that you don’t have to know how to dive. They also depart from Cairns and Port Douglas, are usually between 6-9 hours, and have a variety of vessel types to choose from. Many of the snorkel tours can be combined with the dive tours. ·Fishing. While one-third of the Great Barrier Reef park is a no-fishing zone, there are many tours available daily for the other 2-thirds. ·Sightseeing. If you prefer to just relax and stay dry, there are plenty of sightseeing tours available, including semi-submersible boats to platforms featuring underwater observatories. ·Helicopter Tours. Experience a bird’s eye view of the reef with a flight tour! These tours are usually between 30-60 minutes long, and operate year round, subject to weather conditions. ·Great Barrier Reef Cruises. If you want to spend more than just one day on the reef, there are cruise options ranging from 2-7 nights, on sail boats that only hold 10 passengers, or small cruise ships that hold up to 50 passengers. Contact an Australia Specialist to start planning your dream vacation to Australia today!

Drones Causing Issues for Pilots and Airplanes

NBC 4 in New York has reported that three pilots of passenger jets have reported unmanned drones flying too close to their planes on approach to Kennedy Airport this week. Yesterday the pilot of JetBlue flight 842 reported a drone flying at about 400 feet as the plane was on approach crossing from Nassau County into New York City. Last Sunday, a pilot of Virgin Atlantic flight 9 from London reported a drone sighting near the 747, at about 8:12 p.m. The pilot said the drone was flying high, at about 3,000 feet. The Virgin Atlantic flight was flying over Nassau County on approach to runway 22L at the time. About a minute later, at 8:13 p.m., a pilot of Delta flight 838 arriving from San Diego reported a drone was flying too close to its left wing. Officials said the drone did not come into contact with the Boeing 737. The plane was also over Nassau County at the time, about 10 miles out on approach to Kennedy Airport.

Both the FAA and the FBI are investigation the incidents. If the operator of the drone is found, he could face criminal charges, including reckless endangerment. The pair of drone sightings come after an NYPD helicopter pilot reported a separate near-miss with a drone over New York City on Sept. 18. Earlier this week, the National Transportation Safety Board ruled that drones are aircraft.

Airports Moving Towards Self-Service

A new survey by SITA (Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques)shows that more self-service kiosks, self-bag drops and self-boarding services are going to appear more frequently at international airports. Almost all of the global airports surveyed in the report outlined plans to invest in this type of technology over the next three years. By 2017, an estimated 86% of airports plan to offer self-service check-in, 74% of airports plan to introduce self-service bag drop, and 52% plan to introduce self-boarding. Airports also plan to invest more heavily in mobile notifications including way-finding, security wait times, and retail services.

The Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu from $6,509

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

  • 14 days/13 nights
  • 13 nights accommodations
  • Most meals
  • Sightseeing in a modern, air-conditioned motor coach
  • English-speaking tour guides
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
14-day Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu Tour

Travel from the Galapagos Islands to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and see how the past comes to life on a tour that is more than just a vacation.


VIEW ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive Quito
Your tour opens in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Ecuador’s stunning capital city.
Stay 2 Nights: Hilton Colon Quito International

Day 2: Quito
Learn about Quito’s colonial center on a tour featuring the Presidential Palace and 17th-century church of La Compañía. Get to know your fellow travelers during a welcome lunch overlooking the Pululahua volcanic crater. On a one-of-a-kind experience, cross between hemispheres at the Equatorial Line Monument and Museum at the “Middle of the World.” Spend the rest of the day at leisure discovering Quito’s way of life.

Day 3: Quito – San Cristóbal Island, Galapagos – Embark Ship
Fly to beautiful San Cristóbal Island, gateway to your Galapagos eco-adventure. After enjoying lunch aboard the m/v Galapagos Legend we arrive at the Port Baquerizo Moreno for an up-close look at the endangered tortoises that call the San Cristóbal Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve home. After exploring the island, stargaze from the deck of your ship and toast the wonders of the Galapagos with tropical cocktails.
Stay 4 nights: Aboard ship

Day 4:Española Island (Gardner Bay and Suarez Point)
Board your panga to visit Gardner Bay. Guarded by a colony of sea lions, the beach is home to Galapagos hawks and endemic finches. Swim and snorkel with the marine life, including manta rays and white-tipped sharks. Continue on and meander through the volcanic terrain of Suarez Point. During your nature walk, watch for hooded mocking birds, lava lizards, Sally Lightfoot crabs and blue-footed boobies. Venture to count Waved Albatross at the world’s largest colony. Finally, visit the spectacular Soplador blowhole where water shoots 75 feet into the air.

Day 5: Floreana Island (Post Office Bay and Cormorant Point)
Land at storied Post Office Bay, named for a barrel left in 1793 by Captain James Colnett as a “post office” for passing sailors. Continue the tradition and leave a letter for a loved one. Snorkel, if you choose, with green sea turtles or set out to search for Darwin’s finches and yellow warblers. Sail to Cormorant Point and its olivine green sand beach. Try to spot stingrays and reef sharks in the emerald waters. Learn about the ecosystem’s unusual plants. You may also observe graceful flamingos or spot a small colony of penguins. Seize another chance to snorkel and swim near playful sea lions!

Day 6: Santa Cruz Island (Charles Darwin Research Station & Highlands)
Visit the famous Charles Darwin Research Station. See the giant tortoises from the station’s breeding program. Trek through the Santa Cruz highlands to Cerro Chato and find more giant tortoises. Take a break to savor some organic Galapagos coffee before we embark on a walk inside dormant lava tubes to gain insight on how these pristine islands formed. Enjoy time to explore Port Ayora town.

Day 7: Daphne Island – Disembark Ship – Baltra Island – Guayaquil
Garner panoramic views as you circumnavigate Daphne Island. Keep an eye out for marine iguanas, fur seals and crabs teetering along the rocky shore. Bid farewell to the Galapagos and fly to the lively city of Guayaquil. Get familiar with this community known as the “Pearl of the Pacific” on a city tour featuring a visit to the Malecón 2000 waterfront area and the 19th-century neighborhood of Las Peñas with its Spanish-style houses. From Santa Ana Hill, look out over the city and the Guayas River.
Stay: Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil

Day 8: Guayaquil – Lima,Peru
Fly to Lima, Peru’s “City of Kings.” Spend the afternoon as you choose. Perhaps you will do some shopping, visit Lima’s many fine museums or you’ll choose to experience an optional Peruvian Paso horse exhibition, dinner and folklore show.
Stay: Sheraton Lima Hotel Convention Center

Day 9: Lima – Cuzco – Sacred Valley of the Incas
Fly to Cuzco. Descend through the Andes to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, once the agricultural center of a great empire. Visit Awana Kancha, a living museum of the Peruvian Andes. Explore centuries-old methods of spinning, dyeing and weaving textiles. Stop in Pisac village to browse the handicraft market. Discover an ancient Peruvian art form at Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio. Marvel at this internationally-renowned artist’s techniques and designs, inspired by ancient Peruvian cultures. Settle into your hotel nestled in the Sacred Valley.
Stay: Sonesta Posada Del Inca Yucay

Day 10: Ollantaytambo – Sacred Valley of the Incas
Glimpse daily activities at a nearby village and connect with another culture. Visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, a spectacular example of Inca architecture. Do as the locals do and enjoy a tasting of “chicha,” a regional drink made from maize, at a local pub.
Stay: Sonesta Posadadel Inca Yucay

Day 11: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Machu Picchu
Embark on a train ride through the Andes from Ollantaytambo to mysterious Machu Picchu. Hidden for centuries, the “Lost City of the Incas” is the most spectacular sight in South America. Spend the day exploring the fabled ruins before overnighting at the base of Machu Picchu. Soak up the mystical atmosphere and enjoy an exclusive culinary demonstration at dinner.
Stay: Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

Day 12: Aguas Calientes – Cuzco
Take advantage of your leisure time this morning and perhaps return to Machu Picchu on your own or explore the local markets. Return by train to the Sacred Valley and continue to Cuzco, a city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial influences. En route to Cuzco, meet Peruvian children at an orphanage supported by the Collette Foundation. In Cuzco, relax and become acclimated to the altitude.
Stay 2 nights: HNovotel Cuzco Hotel

Day 13: Cuzco
Explore the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cuzco, which means “Center of the World” in the ancient Quechua language. On a city tour, experience the Spanish architectural legacy visible in the Cathedral, Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas. Discover the sacred Incan ruin of Sacsayhuaman Fortress. Have some time on your own to spend browsing the local markets, see the San Blas artisans quarter or visit one of the impressive museums. Tonight, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant located in the fabulous Plaza de Armas.

Day 14: Cuzco – Depart for the USA
Fly to Lima and tour its historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the artwork at San Francisco Monastery and enter the catacombs, view the Government Center, the Plaza de Armas’ Cathedral and the fashionable suburbs for insight into the life of Limeños. Before transferring to the airport, complete your day with a farewell dinner at the Larco Museum, housed in an 18th-century mansion.

Pricing & Departures

Jan 19 – Feb 1,  2016 $6,209
Feb 2 – 15 , 2016 $6,509
Mar 29 – Apr 11 , 2016 $6,559
request-quote

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • Land only package
  • Prices are per person based on double occupancy
  • Limited space is subject to availability and prior sale
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • Some taxes are not included
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

Classic Spain and Portugal from $2,929

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 14 days/12 nights
  • Roundtrip airfare from NYC
  • 12 nights first-class accommodations
  • 18 meals: 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners with wine
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in a modern, air-conditioned motorcoach
  • English-speaking tour guide
14-DAY TOUR THROUGH SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

On this 14-day tour you will visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, visit the Cathedral of Lisbon, tour the city of Seville with its many historical sites, enjoy a day to explore the Great Market in Morocco, tour the amazing Alhambra Palace in Granada, enter the Church of Santo Tomé in Toledo, and much more!


VIEW ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart the USA
Depart the USA to Spain.

Day 2: Arrive in Madrid
Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure. This evening, enjoy a welcome drink and orientation
Stay 2 nights: Madrid

Day 3: Madrid City Tour
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Madrid. Drive along the Grand Via through the Opera District, Plaza de Colon and view the Royal Palace. Pass through Puerto del Sol Plaza and Plaza España with its monument to the author Cervantes. The tour will end at the Prado Museum, where you will be able to view works of art by famous artists such as El Greco, Velázquez, and Ribera. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Day 4: Sightseeing en route to Salamanca
Cross the rugged Sierra de Guadarrama to Segovia, famous for its Alcazar and the 2000-year-old Roman aqueduct. Continue to the walled and turreted city of Avila, where St. Theresa founded the order of the Carmelites. Drive to Salamanca for an orientation tour and visit to the Baroque Plaza Mayor
Stay: Salamanca

Day 5: Travel to Lisbon
Depart for Portugal, via the Serra da Estrela mountain range. Drive towards Castelo Branco before arriving at Fatima, site of the famous religious visions that occurred in 1917, when an apparition of Mary appeared to three peasant children. Here, visit the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary before continuing to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Tonight enjoy a dinner in the hotel.
Stay 2 nights: Lisbon

Day 6: Lisbon City Tour
Morning tour of Lisbon. View the Belem Tower and the Cathedral of Lisbon. Enjoy the elegant Liberdade Avenue and take the opportunity to view the Monument of Discoveries. Walk through the cobbled alleys of Alfama, the old fishermen’s quarter. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure

Day 7: Travel to Seville
Today, head south to Algarve and cross the border to Spain at Ayamonte, before continuing to the picturesque Andalucian town of Seville
Stay 2 nights: Seville

Day 8: Seville City Tour
This morning view the Moorish architecture of the Giralda Tower and visit the Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic monument. Drive to the Plaza de España, passing Maria Luisa Park, and explore the narrow streets and the many plazas of the Santa Cruz Quarter. Afternoon at leisure

Day 9: Gibraltar Sightseeing En route to Costa del Sol
This morning head south and enjoy a visit to the impressive Rock of Gibraltar, a British Colony for over 300 years standing guard over the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean and Europe meets Africa. Enjoy a tour of the area with mini buses climbing up to see St. Michael’s Cave and the famous Barbary Apes with dramatic views of both the Spanish and Moroccan coastline. Enjoy some time in the main street of the town with its colonial buildings and duty-free shops. Then proceed to Costa del Sol.
Stay 3 nights: Costa del Sol

Day 10: Full Day in Costa del Sol
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Costa del Sol

Day 11: Full Day Morocco Excursion
Today’s sightseeing includes a full day tour to Morocco. Cross the sea to Africa and enter the exotic world of this colorful continent. Enjoy a guided tour of the colorful Grand market and enjoy lunch in a typical Moroccan restaurant with entertainment before shopping for handicrafts and carpets. Return to Spain by ferry.

Day 12: Alhambra Palace Tour
Depart for Granada. Visit the famous Alhambra Palace founded in the 13th century and originally composed of houses, schools, baths, barracks, and gardens surrounded by seemingly impenetrable walls. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Quarter and stroll through the Water Gardens of the Palacio de Generalife.
Stay: Granada

Day 13: Travel to Toledo
Travel via the region of La Mancha, legendary home of Don Quixote, featuring panoramic views of its famous windmills. Continue to Toledo, once the spiritual and intellectual center of Spain. A walking tour will include visit to the Church of Santo Tomé with the masterpiece painting by El Greco and the Synagogue of Santa Maria La Blanca. Continue to Madrid. Enjoy the evening at leisure.
Stay: Madrid

Day 14: Depart for the USA
After breakfast, depart for the airport for your flight back to the USA.

Pricing & Departures

May 25, 2016 $2,949
Jun 22; Jul 8; Aug 3, 2016 $3,299
Oct 12, 19, 2016 $2,979
Oct  26, 2016 $2,929
request-quote

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • Prices are per person based on double occupancy
  • Prices are subject to availability
  • Some taxes and fees are not included
  • All airline taxes, fuel surcharges & fees are included
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
  • All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

Keyless Mobile Entry Coming to Some Hotels

Starting this week some Starwood Hotels and Resorts guests will be able to access their room if they have a smartphone in their hand. On Wednesday, SPG Keyless goes live at Element and W Hotels around the world and is the first keyless entry system for the hotel industry. SPG Keyless, powered by the SPG app, enables guests to bypass the front desk at properties where its available and go directly to their rooms. Guests then unlock their rooms with a simple tap of their smartphones. The system works by SPG guests registering their phones once through the SPG App and allowing push notifications. After booking a reservation at a keyless hotel and approximately 24 hours before arrival, SPG members are invited to opt-in to SPG Keyless. Guests will receive a push notification noting they are checked in and the SPG App will update with their room numbers and Bluetooth keys when rooms are ready. The system will roll out at ten hotels, including Aloft Beijing, Aloft Cancun, Aloft Cupertino, Aloft Harlem, W Doha, W Hollywood, W Hong Kong, W New York-Downtown, W Singapore and Element Times Square. By early 2015 SPG Keyless will be implemented in some 30,000 doors in 150 hotels. One of the world’s largest lock manufacturers, Assa Abloy, created the system. There are also plans to bring the Apple Watch into the keyless entry picture next year.

Kiwi Spectacular from $3,129

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WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 11 days/9 nights
  • Roundtrip airfare from LAX or SFO
  • Flights within New Zealand
  • 3 nights accommodations in Auckland
  • 3 nights accommodations in Queenstown
  • 3 nights accommodations in Christchurch
EXPLORE THREE OF NEW ZEALAND’S GREATEST CITIES

Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. Auckland’s heart beats to a Polynesian rhythm, its people a melting pot of European, South Pacific and Asian cultures and a strong indigenous Maori heritage. This diversity brings with it an abundance of unique dining and shopping experiences. The city will tempt your taste buds with award-winning wines to match its locally sourced produce and seafood.

Fly from Auckland to Queenstown, it is in the center of an area of extraordinary natural beauty and is an essential part of every New Zealand itinerary. Get an adrenaline rush with a Shotover Jet boat ride or bungee jump, or perhaps a luge ride or white white rafting. Visit some of the regions vineyards for a spot of wine tasting or take a tour out to the spectacular Milford or Doubtful Sound.

Then onto Christchurch- the internationally famed ‘Garden City’ of the south. Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible. Go punting on the Avon River, tour the Mona Vale Gardens, visit an array of museums including the Air Force Museum, the Canterbury Museum or the Centre of Contemporary Art. Take a short trip to Akaroa to swim with dolphins, or travel north to see the whales outside of Kaikoura.


Pricing & Departures

11 Dec, 2015 – 10 Jan, 2016 $3,449
11 Jan – 31 Mar, 2016 $3,129
Please call for additional dates. Prices are per person based on double occupancy; subject to availability. Airline taxes, fees & surcharges are included.
request-quote

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • All airline taxes, fuel surcharges & fees are included
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
  • All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

Airlines Look at Fingerprint Scans to Screen Flyers

Security experts have long predicted that airlines in the future will rely on biometrics, fingerprints or retina scans, to verify the identity of air travelers. In August, Alaska Airlines started to use fingerprint scans to screen fliers at the airline’s four airport lounges, including one at Los Angeles International Airport. After further testing, Alaska officials say they may expand the fingerprint screening to the ticket gate to identify passengers before they board planes. Alaska passenger surveys show that travelers like using fingerprints to get access to the lounges. Expanding the fingerprint screening to gates and ticket counters may be more complicated because it will involve coordinating with the Transportation Security Administration. Alaska Airline travelers who want to use the fingerprint scanners must first register their prints at the lounges. The program began with the lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in August and was expanded to the lounges at LAX, Portland (Oregon) International and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in September.

Traveling to Australia’s Outback

The Northern Territory is the third largest state in Australia, the least populated and occupies the northern central part of the country. It is also what many consider to be the “Real Outback”, with dramatic landscapes, abundant wartime heritage, rich aboriginal culture, World Heritage listed Kakadu National park, and Uluru (Ayers Rock).

When traveling to the Outback, it is most common to fly into the city of Alice Springs. Flights from Los Angeles or San Francisco fly non-stop to either Sydney or Brisbane, and then connect on to Alice Springs. The entire travel time takes about 20 hours.
The best times of year to travel to this area are April or September – October, when the weather is typically warm and dry. The climate in the Outback is semi-arid with little rain usually falling during the hottest months, which are from October to March. Central Australia receives less than 250 mm of rain per year.

The city of Alice Springs is surrounded by dramatic red desert, and is referred to by locals as the Capitol of the Outback. Some of the most popular activities include mountain-bike riding, four-wheel driving, trekking along the Larapinta Trail, bush camping and swimming in lush waterholes. Some of the top attractions in Alice Springs are:

Alice Springs Desert Park offers the opportunity to discover many of the secrets of the Central Australian deserts, you even have the option to experience desert habitats as they are at night, including animals, in their nocturnal tour. Open year round, except for Christmas day

Alice Springs Reptile Centre is not very big, but it features over 30 species of reptiles, including snakes, lizards and crocodiles. You can even get up close and have a chance to feed some of them. Live shows run a few times daily. Open year round, except for major holidays.

Larapinta Trail is a 155 mile trail that begins just outside of Alice Springs, and runs through red desert, high mountains, and a national park. It can also be hiked in shorter, more manageable sections.

Approximately 270 miles southwest of Alice Springs is where the most famous attraction in the Northern Territory can be found. Uluru / Ayers Rock is located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This famous sandstone monolith stands over 1100 feet high, and is over 500 million years old. The best ways to see this park are via Aboriginal lead walking tours, helicopter tours or on the back of a camel. Make sure not to miss the spectacular Sounds of Silence gourmet dinner under a clear night sky.

For the ultimate journey right through the heart of Australia, take The Ghan train from Alice Springs to Darwin or Adelaide to experience another Australian city.
Contact an Australia Travel Specialist today to start planning your trip of a lifetime!

New Zealand Splendor from $5,129

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WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 17 days/15 nights
  • Roundtrip airfare from LAX
  • 16 day compact car rental
  • 15 nights accommodations
  • Meet-and-greet with transfer on arrival
  • Ferry from Wellington – Picton
INDEPENDENT NEW ZEALAND TOUR: AUCKLAND TO CHRISTCHURCH

Travel from Auckland to Christchurch and see all of New Zealand’s iconic sights and scenes along the way.

New Zealand is a diverse country. Take it all in with the help of the Co-Pilot Pack, offering detailed driving directions, maps and helpful hints to ensure you make the most of your journey. All your accommodations are pre-booked, so all you have to do is relax and explore the splendor of New Zealand.

Highlights of your vacation include the Coromandel; Rotorua, the thermal region and spiritual home of the Maori; Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city; the captivating Marlborough Sounds, time on the glaciers on the West Coast; Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand; Dunedin, the gateway to unique wildlife experiences and home to New Zealand’s only castle; and Christchurch, the most English of cities in New Zealand.


Pricing & Departures

Hotels Dec 1,  2015 – Jan 31, 2016
Standard $5,129
First Class $5,699
Boutique $6,129
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, subject to availability. Airline taxes, fees & surcharges are included.
request-quote

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • Airfare IS included.
  • All airline taxes, fuel surcharges & fees are included
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
  • All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

Australia & New Zealand 19 Days from $6,499

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 19 days/17 nights
  • Roundtrip airfare from LAX
  • All flights within/between NZ & AU
  • 2 nights accommodations in Auckland
  • 3 nights accommodations in Queenstown
  • 2 nights accommodations in Christchurch
  • 3 nights accommodations in Melbourne
  • 3 nights accommodations in Cairns
  • 4 nights accommodations in Sydney
  • 4-hour Auckland city tour
  • Milford Sound Cruise
  • 3-hour sightseeing tour of Christchurch
  • Great Barrier Reef tour
  • Sydney sightseeing tour

This tour can be modified to fit your dreams!

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EASILY EXTEND YOUR STAY IN AUCKLAND & SYDNEY

Begin this exciting trip in Auckland, New Zealand, Auckland has all of the large-scale attractions you would expect of a big city – museums, galleries, zoos and family amusement parks, many are free or inexpensive. From there fly to Queenstown, New Zealand’s alpine adventure capital. Depart Te Anau via Homer Tunnel, and pass through the glacier-hewn Eglinton Valley, arriving at Milford Sound. Enjoy a cruise on the fjord, with scenic views of the temperate rainforest, the renowned Mitre Peak, and Bowen Falls. Queenstown is set along placid Lake Wakatipu, with the mountain range known as The Remarkables creating a stunning backdrop.

Then travel through the Kawarau Gorge wine region and through the panoramic Lindas Pass to reach New Zealand’s highest mountain – Mt Cook. Continue over the fertile Canterbury Plains to arrive in Christchurch, New Zealand’s “garden city”. From Christchurch you will fly to Melbourne, which is the heart of Australia’s classic south. The city has compelling appeal in its gardens, its history, its character and its charm. Trams criss-crossing the city offer a leisurely way to appreciate the splendid streetscape.

Visit the tourist capital of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns, where you will also take a Great Barrier Reef tour, from Green Island, Green Island is a beautiful 6000-year-old coral cay located in the inner Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. In Sydney, take a panoramic sightseeing tour to world famous Bondi Beach and then through historic Paddington, and the Royal Botanic Gardens for spectacular views of the harbour and the Sydney Opera House and Harbour bridge.


Pricing & Departures

Nov 25 – 10 Dec, 2015 $6,499
Dec 11,  2015 – Jan 12 , 2016 Call for pricing
Jan 13  – Mar 31, 2016 $6,579
Prices are per person based on double occupancy; Subject to availability; All taxes, fees and fuel surcharges are included in prices; Call for other travel dates.

request-quote Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • All airline taxes, fuel surcharges & fees are included
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
  • All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

Salem, MA to Become a Cruise Port

The Salem News reports that the former coal dock is being refitted to accommodate cruise ships. Work is ongoing at the Footprint power plant site in Salem, where the former coal dock is being refitted for cruise ships. The dock is expected to be ready in time for the arrival of the first midsize cruise ship to the city on Sunday, Oct. 19. With just two weeks until the first cruise ship is scheduled to arrive there, city officials say two other cruise ships have already been scheduled, and more are on the way. The Seabourn Quest is scheduled to arrive Sunday, Oct. 19, midway through a 14-day trip from Montreal to Florida. Although the project to repurpose the coal dock is still ongoing, it’s on schedule and expected to wrap up in time for the 650-foot ship’s visit. That will be the first time the city has been able to host what’s known as a “midsize” cruise ship, which can be 800 feet long and have a maximum capacity of 2,250 people, crew included. Two ships have signed up for visits next year, the first of which will mark the first time a cruise ship coming from Europe will visit the city.

Best Places for Fall Foliage in the US

Autumn is about to fall upon us in North America once again. The days are getting shorter, and the nights a little colder. In most areas of the country, leaves start turning in mid September; however the first two weeks of October is typically the peak for viewing foliage at its best, when leaves are their most brilliant. However, the amount of rain fall in a year also determines when leaves change and are their most intense.

These are some of the most beautiful places for fall foliage in the country.

Massachusetts features some of the best places for fall foliage; Cape Cod, the Berkshires, and the Mohawk trail are also some of the most popular. Visit a small historic village, small seaside town or beautiful rolling countryside.

Vermont enjoys a longer foliage season than most places, which runs from early September through late October. Vermont features some of New England’s most scenic golf courses, and also offers many fall festivals.

New Hampshire has 14 officially designated scenic drives covering over 900 miles. Drive over one of the states’ 50 covered bridges, or enjoy fall activities such as fall fairs or llama trekking.

Wisconsin offers prime fall color from mid-September through mid-October, and a variety of fall activities such as several fall festivals, corn mazes, resort destinations and beautiful fall drives along the Lake Michigan shoreline or through Kettle Moraine State forest.

Michigan offers many opportunities to view changing scenery and colors. Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest water falls west of the Mississippi, or Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are just a few. There are also a lot of farmers markets and U-pick fruit and vegetable stands throughout the state in the fall.

Robots Coming to Hospitality Industry

Starwood’s Aloft Hotels and cruise company Royal Caribbean recently announced plans to introduce robot helpers to their staff lineup, and it’s possible other hospitality companies follow suit. The Starwood robot, “Boltr,” helps out at the check-in desk, while the Royal Caribbean robot mixes drinks. “This is just another example of how hoteliers explore and experiment with new ways to meet our guests’ needs,” says an American Hotel & Lodging Industry spokesperson.

Although easy to brush off the new technology as a hyped PR play, the announcements do bring up questions about the feasibility of robot intelligence in the service industry and its implications for guests and hotel staff. “There is no question that this is an exciting time in our industry. We applaud Starwood’s program, which follows a long tradition of innovation in our industry,” an American Hotel & Lodging Industry spokesperson says. “This is just another example of how hoteliers explore and experiment with new ways to meet our guests’ needs.”

Unions representing hotel staff, however, seemed less enthused. The New York Hotel Trades Council had no comment about the introduction of the new technology at hotels, but UK workers’ union Unite has called Aloft’s Boltr a “nifty little gimmick.”

12 Day Vietnam Tour from $1,599

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • 10 nights First Class accommodations
  • Flights LAX-Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
  • Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
  • All intra-flights: Ho Chi Minh-Da Nang & Hue-Hanoi
  • Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
  • Hotel porterage
  • All transfers
  • 14 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
  • Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
12 Day Vietnam Tour Including Airfare

Experience the best Vietnam has to offer on this 12 day tour that takes you from South to North. Start in Saigon, otherwise known as Ho Chi Minh, the largest city in Vietnam. Take in the beautiful landscape, as you take a guided tour exploring the rich culture of this city. Take in the French architecture and influences, and explore the heart of the major shopping center of the city. Your tour continues as you travel to the coastal city of Da Nang. Be amazed at the ancient past that is superbly preserved as you take in the pagodas and temples, while marveling in the heritage that is still very much alive today. Take a leisurely day to discover the delights of this marvelous city, or decide to go on a boat tour which will take you on a cruise downstream, past fishing villages, while you learn about the organically grown vegetables and herbs that support the locals. As you continue, be astounded in the stunning views of Da Nang Bay, and experience the former Imperial capital which was reserved for the use of the Emperor. There will be plenty of leisure time to explore on your own, and you can also choose to participate in the many tours and boat rides.This trip allows you to choose what you want to do. Incredible views await as you travel to Hanoi, the sparkling waters, caves, grottos, and waterfalls. This trip is the perfect escape mixing fantastic food, ancient culture, modern marvels, and will leave you with memories to last a life time!


VIEW ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart for Vietnam
Depart for Vietnam.

Day 2: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
Arrive in Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh

Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City Tour
This morning, following breakfast, join your Tour Manager for a Welcome Meeting. Afterwards, a guided tour in Ho Chi Minh City which includes the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, and the French architecture of the Central Post Office, City Hall, and the magnificent Saigon Opera House. From here, visit lively Ben Thanh Market – where an unbelievable assortment of wares and crafts are sold under one roof. Continue to Dong Khoi Street, a major shopping street in the center of the city
Optional: Half Day Cu Chi Tunnels (PM)*
Overnight: Ho Chi Minh
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Hoi An City Tour, Flight to Da Nang
Depart Ho Chi Minh on your flight to Da Nang, one of Vietnam’s major ports, situated on the coast of the South China Sea. Travel south to the picturesque ancient town of Hoi An, where people still wear the “ao dais”, Vietnam’s traditional dress. The ancient town of Hoi An, a World Heritage Site, was the most important trading ports in Southeast Asia in the 15th century. Its ancient past is superbly preserved in an enchanting collection of temples, pagodas, shop houses and magnificent private homes in the town’s Old Quarter. Walking tour of this artistic jewel, with its century’s old architecture includes the gorgeous Phuoc Kien Pagoda, the 400 year old bright-red Japanese Covered Bridge and the Ancient House. Afterwards, continue to dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight: Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Full Day in Hoi An
Spend a full day at leisure discovering all of the delights of Hoi An independently. Walk through the Old City, stopping at one of the city’s many museums, or see artisans using age-old techniques to fashion a variety of crafts. Of special interest are the colorful and elaborate paper lanterns created by lantern artisans for which Hoi An is well known. Or, join the optional boat trip on the Thu Bon River visiting the Organic Village, including lunch. The boat trip begins at a local pier in the Old Town. You’ll cruise down streams and past many fishing areas before arriving in Kim Bong village, home of traditional woodworking and boat-building. Return to the mainland and drive to the Traque Organic Village for lunch. Here, you’ll learn about the many vegetables and herbs organically grown to support the people of Hoi An. After a Vietnamese culinary lesson and tasting, return to Hoi An
Optional: Boat Trip on the Thu Bon River & Organic Village with Lunch
Overnight: Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Travel to Hue, Hue Imperial City Tour
This morning, travel to Da Nang, with stunning views of bowl-shaped Da Nang Bay. Drive by Marble Mountain, a village well-known for its sophisticated hand-made marble products. Journey over the towering mountains to Hue, home to a wealth of palaces, temples, libraries and museums. Afternoon tour of this former Imperial capital, modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing. Enter the Ngo Mon Gate, principal entrance to the Imperial Enclosure and the central passageway reserved for use by the Emperor. Continue to the Thai Hoa Palace with its spacious hallways and ornamental roof, the Halls of the Mandarins, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the ruins of the Forbidden Purple City, once home to the royal family. Tonight, spend time at leisure to explore on your own
Optional: Cyclo Ride with Dinner at the Citadel
Overnight: Hue
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Full Day in Hue
Day at leisure to explore Hue independently. Or, participate in the not-to-be-missed optional afternoon boat excursion on the gentle Perfume River, which explores the life along the banks of the ancient royal capital city. The river, with its shimmering blue color is dotted with a poetic landscape of boats, gardens, pagodas, towers and temples. The tour continues to the legendary Thien Mu Pagoda, on the north bank of the Perfume River, built in seven successive tiers. Then, a drive to the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, final resting place of Vietnam’s longest reigning emperor and to Khai Dinh, the last monument of the Nguyen dynasty. Here, a Vegetarian Lunch will be prepared by Buddhist nuns of the Dong Thien Pagoda. Return to Hue
Optional: Perfume River Boat Trip and Lunch at Dong Thien Pagoda
Overnight: Hue
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Flight to Hanoi, Sightseeing en route to Halong Bay
Depart Hue on the flight to sparkling Hanoi, cultural center of the country. Upon arrival, travel overland and through the lush Vietnamese countryside to picturesque Halong Bay, considered one of Vietnam’s most celebrated attractions. As you approach, you’ll see thousands of limestone islands rising out of the sea creating a truly magical scene. Arrive at your hotel in Halong Bay for overnight
Overnight: Halong Bay
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: Cruise Halong Bay, Travel to Hanoi
Incredible views await you today! Halong Bay is considered one of the most breathtaking places on the planet, added to the list of UNESCO Heritage sites and declared recently as one of the “New Seven Natural Wonders of the World”. There are over 3000 islands in the emerald waters and over 1000 have their own names. Numbers of caves and grottos of all sizes and shapes are filled with small waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites. Sail on a traditional wooden boat on the tranquil bay with lunch served on board. Visit to one of the caves. Afterwards, drive to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital and check in to your hotel. This city’s history is tied to French colonialism – its architecture, cuisine and local culture still bear evidence of the French influence
Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Hanoi City Tour & Evening Water Puppet Show
Today, we visit the Museum of Ethnology, center for the preservation and exhibition of cultural heritage for over 50 ethnic groups in Vietnam. In the evening, attend a performance of the world-famous Water Puppet Show, accompanied by a traditional Vietnamese orchestra and Cheo (a form of opera). The show depicts a series of ancient Vietnamese folktales, acted out by puppets over a pool of water
Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11: Full day in Hanoi
Spend a full day at leisure discovering Hanoi on your own, or, take the optional tour to the stunning Thay Pagoda and So Village, including lunch, also known as the “Pagoda of the Master”. Nestled against the hillside in Sai Go Village, it shares its compound with the smaller Ca pagoda. Here, you’ll also see Thuy Dinh Stage, a water palace on Long Tri Pond, where the ancient form of water puppetry is performed. Continue to So Village, a well-preserved ancient village. Walking tour around the village with its traditional layout and small alleyways in-between the houses. Stop at one of the communal houses to meet villagers who earn their living from making noodles. Tonight, your journey to Vietnam ends with many lasting memories. Farewell dinner with your fellow travelers and Tour Manager
Optional: Thay Pagoda & So Village with lunch
Overnight: Hanoi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12: Depart Vietnam
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

Pricing & Departures

Dec 15, 2015 $2,219
Dec 17, 2015 $2,569
Dec 21, 2015 $2,799
Jan 4, 2016 $2,229
Jan 4, 2016 $2,229
Jan 6, 2016 $2,149
Jan 13, 2016 $1,879
Jan 20, 2016 $1,819
Jan 21, 2016 $2,099
Jan 27, 2016 $1,769
Feb 17, 22, 2016 $1,929
Feb 24, 2016 $1,859
Feb 29, 2016 $1,929
Mar 7, 14, 2016 $1,879
Mar 16, 23, 28, 2016 $1,599
Mar 30, 2016 $1,789
request-quote

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:
  • Prices are per person based on double occupancy
  • Prices are subject to availability
  • Some tours are optional & not included
  • Nov 18 & Nov 19 departures will be accommodated at Grand Royal Hoi An Hotel & Spa
  • Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
  • We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
  • All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
  • Prices reflect cash discount
  • Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
  • Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
  • Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
  • UBI-600-307-872-WA

Passport Scanning from A Mobile App

United Airlines has become the first US airline to offer customers the ability to scan passports to check in for international flights via iOS and Android mobile devices. United is offering customers the opportunity to use passport scanning functionality on the airline’s mobile app as the carrier completes testing. Customers may access the passport scanning feature when checking in for international flights in the 24 hours before departure. After initiating the app’s check-in feature, customers will have the option of verifying their existing stored passport data or scanning their passport. The app uses the mobile device’s camera feature to capture travelers’ passports, similar to a mobile banking deposit. Jumio Inc., a credentials management company, will then verify the passport for additional security. Once the verification process is complete, customers may obtain a boarding pass. Those requiring additional travel documentation, such as visas, will continue to check in at the airport.

United will collect feedback during the testing phase of passport scanning functionality with the goal of further improving the product and launching additional customer-friendly features utilizing this technology. Last year, United launched its all-new mobile app, and since then more than 13 million customers have downloaded it.

First Airport to Track Passengers Within Feet

The Helsinki, Finland airport will be the first in the world to track passengers to within feet. The plan is being hailed as a technological breakthrough, and is drawing scrutiny from privacy advocates. The sensors will monitor all mobile phones with Wi-Fi access turned on from parking lot to takeoff, helping to observe crowding and prevent bottlenecks at the two-terminal airport. Passengers opting in through an application will also receive offers from shops and restaurants, as well as gate and flight information. Such systems are being deployed more widely as physical shops seek to remove a disadvantage against online retailers who are more advanced in analyzing the digital traces left by customers. About 150 white boxes the size of a Web router are set up around the airport to collect the unique identifier number called the MAC address from devices searching for Wi-Fi networks. They then scramble the information and send it onward to servers. The complete system, in place by the end of the year, may allow a delicacy shop to alert those walking by about a reindeer jerky offer or tell a traveler to Tokyo that there’s just enough time for sushi before she needs to start walking to the gate.

How to Spend Less on International Travel

Many of us are working with reduced budgets in today’s economy. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t still travel internationally. These simple tips can help make your travel dollars go further.

Travel During Off Season.
This is pretty simple and often the biggest money saver. Do a little research as to when the off season is where you are traveling to before making travel plans. Summer and holiday travel will almost always be the most expensive, while travel during Spring or Fall will often be substantially lower.

Book Your Ticket Early.
If you want to get the best deal on airfare, make sure to purchase your ticket at least a few months in advance. If you have to travel over the holidays, book 3-5 months prior to travel to get the best rates. Last minute tickets often come with hefty price tags.

Use Public Transportation.
Forgo renting a car or booking private transfers. If you are traveling to a big city, most offer various public transportation options and can save you lots in the long run.

Consider Spending some Time in a Hostel.
Hostels aren’t for everyone, but many people do opt to stay in them, especially in Europe. Hostels aren’t just for college students anymore. These days’ people of all ages can be found staying in them, and many offer private or semi-private rooms. Since they cost substantially less then hotels, sometimes spending just a few nights in a hostel and out of the hotel can make your trip more affordable.

Eat Cheap.
The amount of money you spend on food can vary greatly, and can ultimately end up costing you a small fortune if you’re eating at restaurants three times a day. Instead, consider eating just one meal a day at a restaurant, like breakfast or lunch, which is always cheaper than dinner prices. Order the soup from the menu, which is almost always inexpensive, yet healthy and filling. Consider buying some meals from a local supermarket. Often, the deli at a local market can provide you with sandwiches, salads, chips, and beverages for half of what you’d pay if you bought the same meal at a restaurant.

Check on Your Cell Phone Plan.
Many people are not aware that all cellular plans are domestic, and using them internationally can rack up thousands of dollars in fees unknowingly! Make sure to check with your cell phone carrier prior to traveling abroad if you plan on bringing your phone, and find out what kind of international plans they offer.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next International Vacation!

Electronics Checks Coming to US Airports Soon

 

 

A new requirement is going into effect soon for U.S.bound fliers at overseas airports. Turning on electronics to show that the devices aren’t bombs is being expanded to certain passengers on domestic flights. A limited number of travelers in U.S. airports selected for extra screening will have their devices checked too. The checks at U.S. airports won’t apply to every flier and will be used more sparingly than at overseas airports. Other procedures being implemented overseas, including different kinds of pat-downs and shoe checks, won’t be brought to U.S. airports. Added checkpoint procedures have the potential to create airport delays. During the new security examinations, screeners may ask that owners power up some devices, including mobile phones. Devices selected for this screening that can’t turn on won’t be permitted to board. British Airways also warned transfer travelers not to deplete power on devices during the first part of their journey because of these new checks.