2016experiencelifecatalogweb

2016 Dream Book

LLC

Creating Memorable Travel Experiences Since 1979

SPORTS LEISURE VACATIONS

Travel Has Become a Part of Life

Something fascinating has occurred within the world of travel in the last 5-6 years. It’s a trend driven by younger people, who have decided, as a generation, to “re-order” travel in their lives. For the past two generations, since jet air travel came within reach of the average man and woman, travel has become a common priority for those in retirement. You worked hard, earned your money, retired or cut back on your work responsibilities, and used the time to travel. That is, if nothing happened to your travel funds, and if your health and the health of your significant other held up, and if…

Younger people, millennials if you will, have a much different outlook on travel. They believe travel should be a part of a healthy lifestyle, but starting at a much younger age. They are much more inclined to take major trips, costing in some cases thousands of dollars, while still in their 20’s and 30’s. In some cases, they have determined that travel has greater value than a new car or a house full of furniture.

This is indeed the “experience generation.” Why wait until later in life and deal with all those “ifs.” Why not travel extensively at a younger age, even if it means going on the cheap, to experience what travel brings to your life. Now these younger people are telling their parents and their grandparents to travel, sharing the same philosophy, traveling makes life better. That indeed, the things you experience while traveling make your life better. The food you sample, the people you meet, the things you learn about, the cultural differences you discover.

Travel is not just for mature people who have saved their money any longer; travel on some level is now within reach of tens of millions of people who believe it is an important part of their lives. Many of us believe learning how others live and meeting them in person is something which gives all of the human race hope that someday we can live together in peace.

What people want when they travel has also changed. The days of “stop, stand and stare” are over. No one wants to visit a house museum and listen to a boring docent drone on about the days of yore. On the other hand, a large percentage of travelers would love to visit that very same museum if they could learn by listening to a living history character, someone bringing the period and the building to life. Throw in a meal or treat served in the venue, maybe a gift that reflects something of significance about your visit, and suddenly a boring museum has become an experience to be enjoyed.

At Sports Leisure Vacations, we have made it our mission for many years to find those experiential things that make your travels memorable. So while the trend is new in travel, it is not a new concept to us. We understand that travel needs to be an experience, that it needs to enrich your life. We get it.

You will find on these pages a series of wonderful travel experiences, LIFE EXPERIENCES if

you will. Things that will make you laugh or learn or just be slightly amazed. Places on your bucket list. We can take you to meet ghosts in the Nevada desert, or to witness a Military Tattoo in Virginia. Sample local specialties in Key West and Hawaii, go wildlife viewing in British Columbia. Explore our national parks, ride the country’s railroads, or just watch a new musical on Broadway. Go behind-the-scenes, relive the history, create your own souvenirs and memories.

While these pages are full of great travel experiences, more are constantly in development at Sports Leisure Vacations. If you have someplace you want to go, a life experience you’d like to see on a Sports Leisure trip, please share it with us. We’ve been listening to our travelers for 36 years. It’s one of the reasons for our success. Thank you for taking the time to “travel” through these pages. Our gratitude to those who have helped make Sports Leisure Vacations one of the country’s most admired tour operators. With your ideas and our expertise, we have created some pretty cool adventures. Come inside and explore…

And so it goes,

Mark HoffmannOwner/Founder

Just One Man’s Opinion…

Clayton and Mark pose with a “Rosie the Riveter” look-a-like at a recent National Tour Association event in Savannah, Georgia. Clayton served as the event’s chairman.

Fewer travelers mean a more personal vacation experience for you!

2016 Dream Book 1

Update On A Personal Pilgrimage… Hola mi Amigos:

It’s September-the-something. I’m sitting in the Plaza Mayor of a small village somewhere in northern Spain. The date and name of this place are unimportant. They are now a part of a composite memory of many days and villages past, and will be joined by many more yet to come.

I am a peregrino on The Camino de Santiago, an ancient pilgrimage route from the Pyrenees to the Atlantic. In walking, I take my place among the hundreds of thousands who have followed The Way over the centuries.

The Camino de Santiago requires endurance, certainly, but it demands something far greater: Faith. Faith in my Higher Power to pull me through. Faith in my body not to let me down when the going gets rough. Faith in the kind village abuela who offers the traditional words of encouragement, “Buen Camino,” as I pass by. And faith in so many others in-between who are there with food, a bed and the all-important bathroom precisely when I need it.

Because you’re holding this catalogue in your hands, you’re putting your faith in Sports Leisure Vacations. I could not be more thankful. Experience, creativity and months of hard work stand behind every departure.

I often say a well-planned tour runs itself, but occasionally something will go wrong. When that happens, have faith that your Tour Director is empowered with the knowledge and resources to see you through, backed-up by our Sacramento staff who often know you have a problem before you do, and are already working on the solution!

I’ll close with a quote I found in a meditation chapel along The Way…

“I asked for all things so I would experience life. Instead I was given life so I might experience all things.”

Buen Camino!

When you choose Sports Leisure Vacations for your travels, you are tapping into over a combined 280 years of travel and tourism experience. With experience comes expertise and we have been using that expertise to create great adventures for over three decades.

Our Team, front row, left to right: Patricia Hansen, May Wong, Patty Thayer, Donnie Anderson, Clayton Whitehead, Bob Veliky, Scott Angeletti, Joey Querio, Donna Carey. Back row, left to right: Chris Galloway, Michael Downer, Ramona Goodge, Jessie Tucker, Kevin Murphy, and our long time All West Coach Driver Greg Gross, an extended part of our team. Taking the Picture: Mark Hoffmann

Our Team makes the difference, and the difference is EXPERIENCE

Proud Members of

2 SPORTS LEISURE VACATIONS

THE TABLE O F CONTENTS

Dining at Portland’s international food carts – p.35

The Neon Museum in Las Vegas, haunted perhaps? – p.14 Catalog designed by Christine Knight — [email protected]

Pena Palace in Portugal – p.30

NOVEMBERFood & Fun in Hawaii, Kauai & The Big Island of Hawai’i .........................................................4With Optional Pre-Tour Extension to Oahu/Waikiki ....................................................................4Tonopah, Laughlin & Las Vegas ................................................................................................4

DECEMBERA Chicago Entertainment Spectacular ......................................................................................5A Classic California Christmas in Riverside ..............................................................................5Sinatra’s Palm Springs ...............................................................................................................5The Tournament of Roses Overnighter ......................................................................................514th Annual Christmas Mystery Tour ........................................................................................23

JANUARY 2016Cuba’s Caribbean Coast & Capital ...........................................................................................7Key West, Miami and The Everglades ......................................................................................6Take the Snow Train to Reno ...................................................................................................10Winter at the Ahwahnee ..........................................................................................................10

FEBRUARYDeath Valley & Eastern Sierra Nevada ...................................................................................15Take the Snow Train to Reno ...................................................................................................10TV Shows in Hollywood & Beverly Hills .....................................................................................8Winter on the Rails ...................................................................................................................11

MARCHAlaska’s Aurora Borealis ..........................................................................................................12Ghosts & Ghost Towns of Old Nevada ....................................................................................14The Oregon Chocolate Festival .................................................................................................8Riding the Rails of the Old West ..............................................................................................32World Figure Skating Championships in Boston .......................................................................923rd Annual Spring Training in Arizona ....................................................................................12

APRILThe Beauty of Bodega Bay .....................................................................................................13The Castle, Ocean and Inn .......................................................................................................9Just Washington, DC ...............................................................................................................21Maui and Molokai, The Story of Father Damien ......................................................................19New York City: Broadway, Brooklyn and The Bronx ................................................................22Red, White and Plaid ...............................................................................................................20Springtime in Monterey ...........................................................................................................18Springtime in Yosemite ............................................................................................................10

Discover the wonders of Iceland – p.28

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2016 Dream Book 3

THE TABLE O F CONTENTS

Our gang outside a Bronx firehouse (Engine 46, Ladder 27) – p.22

MAY 2016America’s Heartland ................................................................................................................26Esplendor de Santa Fe ............................................................................................................25Spain & Portugal: Flowers & Flamenco, Coastline & Castles..................................................30Tulips of Ottawa & Niagara Falls .............................................................................................38The 37th Anniversary Musical Mystery Tour .............................................................................23

JUNEAmazing National Parks of the Great Southwest .....................................................................24From the Hamptons to Broadway ............................................................................................27Boise to Portland, The Columbia River Route .........................................................................45Montana Bound, To The Land of The Big Sky .........................................................................33Progressive Portland, A Look at America’s Most Interesting City ...........................................35Rocky Mountain High in Colorado ...........................................................................................37

JULYBoston to Bar Harbor ...............................................................................................................36Iceland, Land of Fire and Ice ..................................................................................................28Flowers & Fireworks in British Columbia .................................................................................39Sights & Sounds of Highway 101 ............................................................................................34

AUGUSTA Mystery Tour Celebrating Our National Park Centennial .....................................................23Cruise Tahiti & the South Pacific ..............................................................................................29The International Selkirk Loop .................................................................................................41Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach ...............................................................................42The Sounds of Music in Leavenworth .....................................................................................42

SEPTEMBERMagical Malta ..........................................................................................................................31National Treasures of the West ................................................................................................43New England’s Mansions, Shores & Exposition ......................................................................44Rails Around Colorado ............................................................................................................16

OCTOBERA Cruise on the Blue Danube ..................................................................................................47The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta ........................................................................25Magnificent Mammoth in Autumn ............................................................................................13Rails Around Oregon & The Columbia River Gorge ................................................................17Wildlife Viewing in British Columbia ........................................................................................40

NOVEMBERAustralia and New Zealand, Koalas and Kiwis .......................................................................48Mexico’s Puebla and Oaxaca ..................................................................................................46

ODDS & ENDSAirfares & Foreign Currency Exchange Information ................................................................51Blueberry Photographic Society .............................................................................................51By Invitation Only .....................................................................................................................51The Sports Leisure Difference ...............................................................................................52Tour Teasers ............................................................................................................................50

Explore the Land of the Big Sky in Montana – p.33

The residence of the late William Randolph Hearst – p.9


Tonopah, Laughlin & Las VegasExciting new option to see Wayne Newton’s Estate, Shenandoah6 Days • November 8-13From Sacramento, travel over the Sierra to Tonopah, home of the (haunted) Mizpah Hotel. Dine in the Jack Dempsey Room and hear tales of the spirits who “live” at the Mizpah. This is a historic old hotel with quirky accommodations. For those who prefer something more modern, the Best Western is one block up the street and we also have rooms there.

From Tonopah, travel south to Laughlin to stay 2 nights at the Golden Nugget. There’s a jetboat ride on the Colorado River and then it’s back to Las Vegas for 2 nights at Treasure Island Casino. On your free day in Las Vegas, you now have the option to visit Wayne Newton’s Estate. It was just recently opened to the public (which is why it’s optional; we didn’t know when it would open and we’ve been waiting three years). Return to Sacramento via the “scenic” central valley route. The package includes door-to-door service and 6 meals. 1400/1600 Gold Passport Points (1B,1BR,4L)

$1390 p.p./dbl.occ., $1595 single

Food & Fun in Hawaii, Kauai & The Big Island of Hawai’i4 nights each island, with an optional 2-night Oahu package available9 Days • November 11-19At press time, we have 4 seats remaining in our group of 23. This package is all about culinary treats and natural beauty. It features wonderful food and two great flightseeing tours. The complete itinerary can be found online at www.sportsleisure.com. The deadline for the prices listed here is October 12. After that date, we will accommodate you as air availability allows.

The Island of Kauai – Stay 4 nights at the Courtyard by Marriott Coconut Beach in Kapa’a. Enjoy a full day foodie tour of the island, featuring everything from coffee, to salt to fudge and barbecue. A second day gives you time to shop at Hilo Hattie’s (an old Hawaiian tourist tradition) and take a spectacular flightseeing trip around

the island, featuring Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast. Your third full day on the island includes a tour at a chocolate farm (with tasting of course) and a visit to the cliffs and shores of Hanelei. There’s a delightful Sunday Brunch island-style, and an elegant dinner in an old plantation. (3FB,1BR,3L,3D)

The Big Island of Hawaii – Stay 4 nights at the King Kamehameha Courtyard by Marriott in Kailua-Kona. The hotel sits on historic grounds once walked by the king. You have three full days on the island. One is spent on a flightseeing tour over Kilauea volcano (a leisurely day with free time to browse the village); one day you go into the hills and learn about Kona coffee, and also visit the country’s only seahorse farm (you’ll get to meet one up close and personal); and finally, you’ll go “up country” on the Big Island and visit the Hawaiian Vanilla Company, for an amazing lunch, a tour of the farm and gain some knowledge about the vanilla plant. (4FB,2L,2D)

Last Call for Las Vegas and Hawaii, now boarding…

Optional Pre-Tour Extension to Oahu/WaikikiDeparts November 9The package includes 2 nights at the Hyatt Place Waikiki. Attractions include tours of the historic Iolani Palace and Shangri-La, the former home of Doris Duke. You’ll visit the new Valor in the Pacific WWII Memorial (formerly known as Pearl Harbor), see the neighborhood President Obama grew up in (where he was born, lived, went to school) and even have ice cream in the store where he had his first job. Dinner one night is at Chuck’s Steak House of Hawaii, once a Town & Country Village landmark right here in Sacramento. Waikiki Beach is right across the street from your hotel. (2B,1L,1D)

Kauai & The Big Island of Hawai’i $4765 p.p./dbl.occ., $5570 single

Add the Oahu Pre-Tour Extension $795 p.p./dbl.occ., $1015 single

Both packages include airfare from Sacramento on United/Hawaiian and return from Kona on United. Included meals are noted at the end of each description. Door-to-door airport service is also a part of the package. Gold Passport Points based on tour selection.

2016 Dream Book 5

Sinatra’s Palm Springs3 Days • December 3-55 seats at press time. The highlight of this tour is a visit to Frank’s old home in downtown Palm Springs. You’ll be surprised at how modest it was/is. Enjoy a holiday concert by the Ten Tenors, ride the tram to the top of Mt. San Jacinto and watch the annual Christmas parade as it passes by your hotel! Of course, you’ll enjoy the celebrity tour of town, learning about all of Frank’s former buddies and the current celebrities who are seen around town. Two nights at the Hyatt Palm Springs. Fly to/from Ontario and enjoy lunch at the beautiful Mission Inn. Includes air, door-to-door airport service, 3 meals. 1850/2100 Gold Passport Points $1849 p.p./dbl.occ., $2065 single

A Chicago Entertainment SpectacularFeaturing Frank Sinatra’s 100th Birthday Party5 Days • December 10-144 seats at press time. An itinerary filled with excitement and upscale attractions. There are three evenings of entertainment. See the Broadway hit Beautiful, The Story of Carole King. Discover a brand new show in its pre-Broadway engagement, Gotta Dance, about an all-senior dance team, their trials and tribulations. The show is directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots). Finally, you’ll spend a night toasting Ol’ Blue Eyes at the Palmer House Hilton, your home for 4 nights. The party includes dinner and a performance by a Sinatra impersonator.

Go to the Museum of Science and Industry to see the remarkable display of 75 international Christmas trees, enjoy a elegant holiday tea at The Drake Hotel, and speaking of elegant, lunch is served for you in the Walnut Room at Macy’s (formerly Marshall Fields). Dine in an authentic Polish restaurant for dinner one night (after all, this is Chicago and there are more Poles here than in any other city in the world outside Poland) and visit the German-style Christmas Market.

Frank Sinatra would have turned 100 this December, and we are celebrating…

The package includes airfare, 9 meals and door-to-door airport service. Why not do some of your holiday shopping on the Magnificent Mile in Chicago this holiday season? 2700/2850 Gold Passport Points $2655 p.p./dbl.occ., $2835 single

A Classic California Christmas in Riverside4 Days • December 23-265 seats at press time. Fly to/from Ontario. Your accommodations for 3 nights are at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Riverside. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Mission Inn, a Riverside landmark. (You’ll enjoy modern, Marriott-style accommodations and still visit the Mission Inn for a meal and the holiday lights display).

You’ll visit the candy store that invented “ribbon candy,” a Christmas tradition, and visit a local olive presser that has been in business for nearly a hundred years. It’s Christmas, and the gifts are for you at every stop! One day we’ll explore some of our favorite Route 66 landmarks in the area, including Elmer’s Bottle Ranch, the first McDonald’s and a classic roadside café. We’ll sneak over to Palm Springs one morning to ride the tram to the top of Mt. San Jacinto and have lunch. Dine on Christmas Eve at the Mission Inn and be treated to a lavish Christmas Day spread at the Marriott.

We’ll exchange gifts and maybe start a new holiday tradition or two. Santa’s Elves (in the form of Chris and Mark) will be along to make certain your holiday is one to remember. Includes 9 meals, your airfare and door-to-door airport service as part of your package. 1600/1800 Gold Passport Points $1590 p.p./dbl.occ., $1795 single

The Tournament of Roses Overnighter2 Days • December 31 – January 1, 2016Skip the fluff and just go see the parade. Fly to Southern California and head to the Reagan Library, where you’ll enjoy lunch under the wing of Air Force One and have time to tour the museum. Overnight at the Holiday Inn in Burbank, enjoy a casual New Year’s Toast, then arise very early the next morning to get to the parade. Reserved seats are yours for all the festivities, then lunch at the Tam O’Shanter Restaurant (part of the Lawry’s group) before your flight home. Includes door-to-door airport service (even though it’s only an overnighter), 3 meals and airfare. 1100/1200 Gold Passport Points $1095 p.p./dbl.occ., $1195 single

Most tours are accompanied by a selection of websites that will help satisfy your appetite for more information on our destinations before you travel. Check them out and let us know what you discover. Remember, a wealth of knowledge is always available at www.sportsleisure.com including company information, expanded tour itineraries, current publications and a link to the Travel Guys Radio Show.


• Visit Florida Everglades National Park, experience an air boat ride and meet an alligator or two up close

• History abounds in Key West – visit the Hemingway Home, The Aquarium, Truman’s “Little White House” and Mel Fisher’s famous Maritime Museum, tour the island aboard the famous Old Town Trolley

• New in 2016 – Lunch on private Sunset Key at Latitudes, a short ferry ride from Mallory Pier in Key West

• A “Taste of Key West” food tour by trolley, where you sample lots of local culinary treats (including Key Lime Pie, Conch Fritters, Cuban Sandwiches)

• Day cruise on an authentic clipper ship (optional), Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

• Cabaret Dinner Show at La Te Da; lunch at Hemingway’s Sloppy Joe’s, a local landmark

• 4 nights in Key West at the Crowne Plaza La Concha, in the heart of town on Duval Street

• Overnight Ft. Lauderdale – Miami city tour featuring South Beach and Coral Gables; overnight in Key Largo

• Tour The Turtle Hospital in the Keys• Roundtrip air to Ft. Lauderdale (United),

return from Key West (Delta)• 13 meals: 2 breakfasts, 4 full breakfasts,

2 lunches, 5 dinners• Door-to-door airport service• 3900/4650 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

Key West has become one of our most popular destinations with our annual tour selling out every year, months ahead of departure. Indeed, next year is no exception. As we go to press, four seats remain for the 2016 departure. Key West is a pedestrian-friendly destination, and because of that, we walk to many attractions. For that reason, we do not recommend this tour for travelers with serious mobility issues. Dates and prices for January 2017 will be announced in February 2016.

1. Arrive in Ft. Lauderdale and enjoy dinner at a popular South American-style steakhouse. Holiday Inn Express (D)

Miami

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EvergladesNat’l Park Coral

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Key West, Miami and The EvergladesFeaturing Key Largo and 4 nights in Key West

7 Days • January 22-28

2. A morning visit to the Everglades to ride an air boat and meet some alligators. City tour of Miami Beach and Coral Gables, ending the day in Key Largo. Great sunset views tonight before dinner at the popular Fish House. Hampton Inn (B,D)

3. Learn about marine wildlife at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, stop for lunch, then travel on to Key West, with a fun souvenir adventure on arrival. Crowne Plaza La Concha – 4 nights (B,L,D)

4-6. Enjoy a wide variety of Key West dining and sightseeing experiences. See the highlights box for details. From the drag show at La Te Da to the amazing Butterfly Conservatory, you’ll have time for sights (each morning) and time to explore on your own (each afternoon). (3FB,L,2D)

7. Depart Key West at 11am, connecting in Atlanta and Los Angeles and arriving home about 6:30pm. (FB)


www.lateda.comwww.keywestbutterfly.com

www.evergladessafaripark.comwww.turtlehospital.org

www.sunsetkeycottages.com/latitudes-key-west

2016 Dream Book 7

• 2 nights Miami/Ft. Lauderdale with Everglades airboat tour

• 6 nights on the not-so-forbidden (any longer) island of Cuba with people-to-people interactions: meet artists, farmers, and other real people of Cuba

• Quality hotels and restaurants throughout your tour including Havana, Cayo Santa Maria & Varaderos

• 18 meals: 6 full breakfasts, 7 lunches, 5 dinners

• Roundtrip domestic air to/from Ft. Lauderdale• Door-to-door airport service• Services of a Sports Leisure Tour Director

and 2 guides in Cuba• 6600/7100 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

Join our third departure to the mystical island of Cuba on a people-to-people travel program that ensures an authentic connection between you and the island’s lifelong residents. Now is the time to visit! Rapid transformations are taking place as the country begins to gradually open itself to the outside world. Optimize your time “doing” and not just sitting on a bus only “seeing” the country. Spend two nights (the first and last days of the tour) in Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, two nights in Cayo Santa Maria,

Cuba’s Caribbean Coast & CapitalDiscover the mystique of the Pearl of the Caribbean

9 Days • January 6-14

two nights in Varadero, and two nights in Havana.

Fly from Miami to Santa Clara and learn the history of the most decisive battle of the Cuban Revolution that took place here before making your way north to the Caribbean Coast. Cayo Santa Maria, your first two-night stay, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its turquoise waters, mangroves, and indigenous wildlife. Travel by train to Remedios, a charming colonial city dating back to the 1600s and known for its street festivals. Local artisans will share the inspiration for their work while the musicians will have you dancing the night away. In Varaderos, try your hand in creating authentic Cuban cuisine alongside professional chefs. Relax and stroll the white sand beaches as a warm Caribbean breeze blows from the ocean before heading to Havana, the island’s bustling capital.

Your home in Havana is the Melia Cohiba Hotel, just steps from the Malecon, the seaside boulevard spanning one side of the city. En route to Havana, stop at Ernest Hemingway’s home where he spent 20 years and wrote The Old Man and the Sea. Things remain pretty much as he left them. The architecture of Old Havana’s Cathedral Plaza is sure to impress! Visit a local food market to gain a better understanding of the ration system and see the dual currency in action. Meet with Castro’s personal photographer to gain perspective on such

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a polarizing figure. Step back in time as 1950s-era American cars rumble by, still in everyday use today. Meet civic-minded citizens that are striving to beautify, educate and promote progress is this truly remarkable city. Engage your senses! See, hear, taste, touch and dance to the rhythm of this lively, fascinating country!

$6585 p.p./dbl.occ., $7080 single*This vacation requires a valid passport!

*Roundtrip air from Sacramento to Ft. Lauderdale IS included in the price of the tour. The roundtrip charter flight from Miami to Havana will be scheduled 15-45 days before departure and is NOT included in the above price. You will be billed separately for this. Currently, the total cost of this flight is $645 and covers the cost of the visa required to visit Cuba and ALL required administration fees. Should the trip not operate you will receive a full refund.

www.meliacuba.comwww.bellasartes.cult.cu/


• Stay at the iconic landmark hotel, The Los Angeles Intercontinental

• Tour Sony Pictures Studios (formerly MGM) with lunch at the studios’ cafeteria

• Participate as an audience member at tapings of Jeopardy! and The Price is Right

• Enjoy a guided tour of historic Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills

• 5 meals: 2 full breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner• Roundtrip air to/from Burbank• Door-to-door airport service

HIGHLIGHTSTV Shows in Hollywood & Beverly Hills3 Days • Spring and Fall 2016

The chance to attend live tapings of television shows in Southern California has been an often requested activity over the years. Our first trip was announced in August and we quickly filled every seat.

We announced a second trip and it quickly began to fill. Then we were reminded why we don’t offer these trips more often: The taping schedules change frequently. After we set a second date and began taking reservations, that’s exactly what happened, the taping dates moved. There is always a possibility you could go to Hollywood and

one of the shows might get cancelled. We will have alternate attractions standing by, but we want to be very honest about what could happen.

Because taping schedules are announced in many cases only 60 days in advance, these tours will have to be announced a little differently than most. We ask you call us and place your name on the Priority Notification List. When the next dates are announced, a letter will be mailed to everyone on the list on the same day and registration will begin.

www.intercontinental.com/LosAngeleswww.philippes.com

1. Your Sweetest Weekend Ever! begins with our signature door-to-door service. Enjoy lunch in Redding en route to the quaint town of Ashland in southern Oregon. Check in to your home, The Ashland Hills Hotel, for two nights. You’ll have some time to freshen up before the Chocolate Festival’s kickoff event, The Chocolate Maker’s Dinner, begins. This elegant dinner will be held at your hotel, host of the event! (L,D)

2. After breakfast, visit downtown Ashland. Browse the many charming and eclectic shops in this very walkable town. The doors for The Chocolate Festival open again at 11am but return at your leisure as a shuttle service is offered. This year, the festival has expanded to include chocolate makers from all over the west coast. Spend as much time as you would like tasting the fantastic chocolates and meeting the exhibitors and then relax in your room as you desire. Later this afternoon, travel to nearby Central Point and visit some local shops featuring wine with tastings, cheeses,

The Oregon Chocolate FestivalThe Sweetest Weekend Ever!

3 Days • March 4-6

• Taste your way through the Oregon Chocolate Festival

• Optional performance at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

• Explore the charming town of Ashland• Shop for tasty treats at Harry & David’s• Door-to-door service• Deluxe motorcoach service• 6 meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners• 900/1050 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

and fine chocolates. Tonight dine at Larks Restaurant in nearby Medford before the option to see a performance at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (additional cost). Choose between Great Expectations, a world premier adaptation of the classic story by Charles Dickens, or Yeoman of the Guard, a humorous, pun-laden comedic operetta. Choose your performance at the time of booking. (B,D)

3. Following breakfast, visit Harry and David’s Country Village Store in Medford. The flagship store offers the ultimate in local gourmet foods and produce, delicious treats, and one of the largest wine and beer selections in southern Oregon. Didn’t have a chance to taste the chocolate beer or wine? Was there something you’ve decided you want to give as a gift? You’ll still have a little time to go back to the festival today before heading home. Pause again for lunch in Redding, arriving in Sacramento late in the afternoon.(B,L)


The first tour featured 2 nights at the luxurious Intercontinental Hotel Century City, and the opportunity to attend Jeopardy! and The Price is Right. (Check the highlights box above for a listing of possible attractions and dining inclusions on 2016 departures.) Future trips might include these shows, or others like Dr. Phil and Wheel of Fortune, or even situation comedies. Most shows tape in the fall and the spring. The first trip was priced at $1325 p.p./dbl.occ., $1545 single. Future trips are likely to bare similar pricing.

www.ashlandspringshotel.comwww.harryanddavid.com

2016 Dream Book 9

A skating fan’s dream come true. Immerse yours in the world championships and see every minute of every final. Or perhaps see the finals for all the main events and see a bit of Boston also. The choice is yours, on a daily basis. We have planned an very open itinerary, giving you lots of options.

Your suburban hotel is two subway stops from TD Garden, where all the events, and even some practices, are held. In Chelsea, your hotel is three blocks from the subway station. We provide your subway ticket, and under most circumstances, your Tour Director will be available to escort you to/from the arena. Bus transportation will be offered on some days and with optional activities.

1. Fly to Boston. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner before retiring. Residence Inn by Marriott Chelsea – 6 nights (D)

2. There is an optional city tour with a late lunch at famous Quincy Market. The Short Dance is 10am-3pm (skip the tour to attend). Opening ceremonies are at 5pm and the Men’s Short Program follows. (FB)

World Figure Skating Championships in BostonIncludes your all-event reserved ticket

7 Days • March 29 – April 4 • 6 nights at the Residence Inn Marriott Chelsea (in close Boston suburb), an extended stay property offering suites accommodations with a kitchen – beds are king bed, sofa queen bed in every room, it’s like having your own condo for a week

• Skating events in the afternoon and evening, optional sightseeing in the mornings, or attend the skating practices if you wish, you have an all-admission TD Garden ticket

• Optional, included sights: a Boston City Tour, the Kennedy Presidential Library and a Fenway Park tour

• Your ticket includes the Opening Ceremonies, and admission to the finals of: the Men’s Short Program, the Ladies’ Short Program, Free Dance, Pairs Short Program, Men’s Free Skate, Pairs Free Skate, Ladies’ Free Skate and the Exhibition of Champions

• Roundtrip air to/from Boston• Door-to-door airport service• 9 meals: hot breakfast every morning, plus

arrival and departure night dinners and a truly elegant Sunday Brunch at Café Fleuri

• 3100/3550 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

3. There is an option to visit the Kennedy Library in the morning. The Ladies’ Short Program begins at 12:15pm and the Free Dance follows at 7:30pm. There is a 90-minute break between shows. (FB)

4. An optional Fenway Park tour this morning. The Pairs Short Program begins at 1:15pm, the Men’s Free Skate follows at 6:45pm. There is a two-hour break between shows. (FB)

5. The Boston Ducks tour is optional (not included, $30) this morning. The Pairs Free Skate begins at 12:50pm, the Ladies’ Free Skate follows at 7:00pm. There is a three-hour break between shows. (FB)

6. You are treated to an elegant Sunday Brunch this morning just off Boston Common at Café Fleuri, followed by the Exhibiton of Champions at the arena. (FB,BR,D)

7. Your return flight departs in the late morning. (FB)


lively entertainment… it’s the city’s weekly Farmers Market. Rated as one of the best in the state, this marketplace is lots of fun for locals and visitors. (FB,L)

3. Visit the coastal community of Morro Bay. In the afternoon check in to your seaside hotel in time to enjoy the view from the ocean bluffs or stroll along the beach. Tonight journey to nearby Hearst Castle for a very special tour hosted by docents

The Castle, Ocean and InnFeaturing Hearst Castle and the Apple Farm Inn

4 Days • April 6-9

www.worlds2016.comwww.residenceinnbostonlogan.com

dressed in 1930’s-period costumes. Tours require walking up and down over 300 steps with extended periods of standing. If you have been to the castle previously, you may opt out of the tour when you make your reservations and receive a credit of $25. Best Western Cavalier (FB,L)

4. Return home through the Salinas Valley, America’s “salad bowl,” pausing in Paso Robles and at Casa de Fruita for one last chance to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables for home. Arrive in Sacramento in the early evening. (FB,L)

This tour includes door-to-door service, deluxe motorcoach, accommodations, 7 meals (3FB,4L), all tours and attractions listed, and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director. 1350/1500 Gold Passport Points.


Cou

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iforn

ia S

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Par

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www.applefarm.comwww.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=591

ccspa.info/morrobay/

1. Begin your spring vacation to the coast with door-to-door service to the Sports Leisure office. Travel over Pacheco Pass to the National Steinbeck Center to learn more about John Steinbeck and his stories that are a reflection of our nation. Continue to San Luis Obispo and a most delightful inn. With a grand staircase and beautiful furnishings, and a full breakfast served each day, it’s an exquisite place to stay. Apple Farm Inn – 2 nights (L)

2. Take in the views of the ocean today from Avila Beach, a quiet little town on the San Luis Obispo Bay. Lunch is included before returning to the Apple Farm in time for the nightly wine and cheese reception. This evening catch the local trolley and follow the aroma… barbecued ribs, freshly picked produce, arts and crafts, and


Experience a High Sierra winter wonderland as Amtrak’s California Zephyr climbs through the mountains, providing magnificent winter vistas.

1. Begin your journey in Roseville. Don’t worry about your luggage – it will travel on board our motorcoach, which will meet you in Reno! Once aboard the California Zephyr, enjoy relaxing views from your seat or from the domed observation car. A box lunch is included for you to take on the train so you won’t miss the scenery! Tonight, see an optional performance of the musical Footloose at the Eldorado Showroom, which includes a buffet dinner (add’l $45 p.p.). Silver Legacy Resort Casino (BL)

2. The Nugget in Sparks is nearby so you have the choice of an optional morning visit for more gambling at your leisure, with an additional casino bonus, or you can choose

Take the Snow Train to RenoAll aboard Amtrak’s California Zephyr for the Sierra Nevada

2 Days • January 26-27 or February 23-24

to stay downtown. Return to Sacramento on board the motorcoach in the afternoon.

The package includes rail passage on Amtrak’s California Zephyr to Reno, a boxed lunch, hotel accommodations, casino bonuses (subject to change), and return transportation by motorcoach. 275/300 Gold Passport Points.

$255 p.p./dbl.occ., $280 singleAdd door-to-door service for $80 p.p.

This trip is a Sports Leisure Vacations’ favorite! And the focus is all about the Ahwahnee Hotel… enjoy brunch in the grand dining room, a docent-guided historic tour of the public areas, and spend one night in what is considered the Grand Dame of National Park hotels. Whether there is snow or rain, this is still a magnificent gem in our national lands.

1. Travel along the Merced River Canyon to Yosemite National Park and to the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, completed in 1926. Sunday Brunch is presented in the Ahwahnee Dining Room, with its 34 foot-high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. A guided tour of the public areas deepens your appreciation for the architectural and interior design of this grand structure. Pause for a cup of tea in the Grand Lounge while awaiting check-in at 5pm. The evening is yours to enjoy the historic surroundings. Ahwahnee Hotel (BR)

2. Exploring the valley during the winter is very different than during other times of the year; perhaps you will wake up to a fresh dusting of snow. Learn more about winter in

Winter at the AhwahneeFeaturing an overnight stay in Yosemite National Park

2 Days • January 31 – February 1

Yosemite and enjoy the spectacular views as you explore from one end of the valley to the other from the comfort of a heated coach with a local guide this morning. There is time for lunch on your own. This winter visit to one of our favorite parks includes roundtrip deluxe transportation, accommodations, brunch, a tour of Yosemite Valley, and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director. 700/800 Gold Passport Points.

$685 p.p./dbl.occ., $780 singleAdd door-to-door service for $80 p.p.

Springtime in YosemiteTwo nights in Yosemite Valley


1. Travel the scenic route to Yosemite National Park through the Merced River Canyon (Route 140), arriving in time for a late brunch at the magnificent Ahwahnee Hotel. This evening, take a walk to nearby Yosemite Falls… or maybe just relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of the starlit sky. Yosemite Lodge – 2 nights (BR)

2. A guided tour of Yosemite Valley highlights both history and natural beauty with stops along the way for you to snap photos of Half Dome, Bridal Veil Falls and El Capitan. This afternoon explore on your own… perhaps the Ansel Adams Gallery, the history museum, a little shopping, or even a walk to Mirror Lake.

3. A leisurely start provides time to enjoy morning in the valley before making your way towards the historic Groveland Hotel for an included lunch. Return to Sacramento in the early evening. (L)

This springtime visit includes door-to-door service, roundtrip deluxe transportation, accommodations, 2 meals (1BR,1L), all tours and attractions listed, the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director, and ample free time to enjoy the sights of the valley at your leisure. 1150/1400 Gold Passport Points.


www.nps.gov/Yosewww.yosemitepark.com/yosemite-lodge.

aspxwww.yosemitepark.com/the-Ahwahnee

2016 Dream Book 11

• Discover Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry & the rail community of Pullman, our country’s newest historic national monument

• Tour the north and south sides of Chicago on a unique history tour

• Stay 2 nights at the historic Hilton Hotel Chicago

• Explore 7 states in style and comfort aboard Amtrak’s California Zephyr


• Air to Chicago• Door-to-door service• Gold Passport Points based on compartment

HIGHLIGHTSThis year’s sold-out tour meant a chance to bring it back for 2016 and, based on comments from those who participated, a second night in the heart of Chicago at the historic Hilton Hotel. When you step aboard the California Zephyr, you have a choice in accommodations (and the opportunity to save money). Compartments on board are deluxe bedrooms with an enclosed private bathroom/shower. Or you can choose a roomette, a smaller accommodation with shared bath and shower rooms. Both compartment types can accommodate two people, but the roomette is a much smaller space. Questions about Amtrak? Please contact Kevin or Michael in our office.

1. Door-to-door service delivers you to the airport for your flight to Chicago. Arrive in time for a late lunch. Your accommodations are right on Michigan Avenue. Hilton Hotel Chicago – 2 nights (L)

2. Explore the city this morning on a tour with an emphasis on the “colorful” history of 1920’s Chicago. Learn about the gangsters and the decadence of Chicago at the height of the roaring twenties. After lunch, discover

Winter on the RailsDiscover Rocky Mountain splendor on board the California Zephyr

5 Days • February 26 – March 1, 2016

after 2pm. Of course, our fleet of vehicles is waiting to return you to your home safely. (FB,L)

$2310 p.p./dbl.occ., $3350 single (bedroom)

$1705 p.p./dbl.occ., $2085 single (roomette)

CA

Sacramento

IL

NE IAUT

CONV

Ottumwa

Omaha

LincolnMcCook

Denver

GrandJunction

Salt LakeCity

Elko

Nights 3-4 on board the California Zephyr (between Chicago and Sacramento)

Chicago

Reno

RockyMountains

3-4

1-2

World War II, the recreation of a coal mine, and the museum’s excellent collection of model trains on 1,400 feet of track. (FB,L)

3. The history of rail comes alive in the small community of Pullman. Founded as an idyllic company town by George Pullman, its history of birth, near death, and rebirth is a fascinating one as you will learn from a guide who lives in the community. Amtrak’s California Zephyr departs Union Station at 2pm, bound for the Golden State. Your car will have an attendant to assist you and, as a First Class traveler, all meals are included in the dining car. On board the California Zephyr – 2 nights (FB,D)

4. Your overnight journey covered over 1,000 miles from Illinois through America’s Great Plains into Colorado. Arrive in Denver at breakfast time and then begin the climb over the majestic Rocky Mountains. Maybe you’ll want to find a seat in the dome car? The winter scenery is spectacular all the way into Utah. Pass through Salt Lake City at 11pm and cross the Nevada desert during the night. (FB,L,D)

5. You’re in the home stretch now, scaling Donner Summit and arriving in Sacramento

Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry, home of the Pioneer Zephyr, the train which ran between Chicago and Denver in the 1930’s. A short guided tour uncovers each of the cars. Other exhibits on display include a real-life German submarine from

www.pullmanil.orgwww.amtrak.com/california-zephyr-train


Quite simply, this is a baseball fan’s dream come true. If you have always talked of going to Spring Training, come be a part of the fun. Problem is, it’s hard to come just once…

Join us as we head once again to Arizona for baseball in the springtime. Cactus League games every day (generally sitting in the shade – which is surprisingly important), some great grub and the chance to talk baseball with former players. Our annual baseball banquet always features engaging conversation from a

• 4 nights at the Phoenix Airport North Marriott Hotel

• Tickets to 5 ballgames – schedule announced in November, all games generally feature the Giants, A’s or both

• Lunch in a suite or private-reserved seating at least once, with shaded seating for all games, an extremely important consideration

• Baseball Banquet, featuring a former ball player, coach or broadcaster

• Dinner at Rustler’s Roost, Sunday Brunch at the Scottsdale Conference Resort, both Spring Training traditions, full buffet breakfast each morning, total of 7 meals

• Roundtrip air to/from Phoenix • Door-to-door airport service• 2250/2500 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

former major league broadcaster, player or umpire (Greg Minton, former Giants relifef pitcher, spoke last year to the group; Al Clark, former umpire, spoke the year before). It promises to be a great evening of baseball stories and memories. Our old buddy, former Major League ballplayer Lou Klimchok, will also be on hand for a second baseball talk.

Centrally located rooms at a Marriott Hotel (with a great full buffet breakfast daily) and a city tour of Phoenix are featured in the package. The schedule of games is not

23rd Annual Spring Training in ArizonaFour nights in a beautiful Marriott Hotel, ballgames every day

5 Days • March 10-14announced until November-December. We strongly encourage you to register now and take advantage of the lower price, which helps us in purchasing tickets.

Until November 10: $2125 p.p./dbl.occ., $2395 single

After November 10: $2225 p.p./dbl/.occ., $2495 single

Alaska’s Aurora Borealis Featuring small group travel with unique winter attractions

7 Days • March 2017

Our tour this past winter to experience the wonder of the Aurora Borealis was a huge success and our 2016 departure sold out

in only three days! We are now taking a Priority Notification List for our trip in 2017.

Highlights of our small group tour (limited to 20 passengers) will include stays at the spectacular Alyeska Resort, the charming Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge and the spacious Fairbanks Springhill Suites by Marriott. You will view the Aurora Borealis in a remote lodge outside of Fairbanks, away from the city lights and travel on the Alaska Railroad from Talkeetna to Denali. Receive a VIP tour of the 2016 Ice Art Championship displays and experience a dogsled ride at Dallas Seavey’s kennel, winner of the 2012, 2014 and 2015 Iditarod. An exclusive winter glacier cruise on Prince William Sound is also included along with a visit to see all the big land mammals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Please note: You must be prepared for cold weather from 0 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit during this tour. Winter gear, including boots and jackets, may be rented if you do not own them. Prices should be available in May 2016.

www.visitphoenix.comwww.cactusleague.com

www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/phxap-phoenix-airport-marriott/

2016 Dream Book 13

• Relax in comfort and enjoy the hospitality of Bodega Bay Lodge & Spa, overlooking Dorian Beach

• Stroll through amazing Armstrong State Park • Dine at the historic Occidental Union Hotel• Visit the first Russian settlement in California,

Fort Ross• 5 meals: 1 brunch, 2 full breakfasts, 2 lunches• Door–to–door service• 1000/1150 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

The Beauty of Bodega BayFeaturing Ft. Ross and Armstrong State Parks


1. Travel through Sonoma County, arriving in the afternoon at the Bodega Head overlook to catch sight of the Pacific Ocean; who knows, we may even catch sight of a whale passing by! Your hotel this evening is at one of the finest lodges in Northern California, the four-diamond Bodega Bay Lodge & Spa, overlooking Dorian State Beach. Every room looks out over the gardens of the lodge towards the water. Bodega Bay Lodge & Spa – 2 nights (BR)

1. Travel across one of the most breathtaking roads in California. With awe-inspiring scenery and dramatic views of the Sierra Nevada, the Tioga Pass Road through Yosemite is a spectacular drive.

listed, and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director. 950/1050 Gold Passport Points.


www.bodegabaylodge.comwww.fortross.org

www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tioga.htmwww.visitmammoth.com

www.monolake.org

2. This morning enjoy a drive up the Sonoma Coast to the historic site of Fort Ross. This Russian trading post was one of the first European settlements in Northern California. An afternoon of leisure awaits… a full service spa, along with a pool and hot tub, are available or maybe a walk down to the beach is more your style! (FB,L)

3. Retrace the road along the coast, getting another glimpse of this spectacular scenery, and then turn into the forest. Choose to join a docent-led stroll through the ancient giants of Armstrong Woods, or perhaps just sit and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. A short drive from the park brings you to Occidental, a gem of a community tucked into the redwoods, for an Italian meal served family-style. After a brief time to browse the quaint shops return to Sacramento. (FB,L)


Magnificent Mammoth in AutumnFeaturing Tioga Pass and the colors of the High Sierra

3 Days • October 14-16, 2016

Arrive in Mammoth Lakes in the late afternoon, just in time for a casual dinner with your fellow travelers. Shilo Inn – 2 nights (L,D)

2. Explore the Eastern Sierra these next two days, learning about the geology and the people who call this area home. Activities include visits to Devil’s Postpile and Mono Lake and a drive around the June Lake Loop taking in the beautiful colors of autumn. From Mammoth Mountain to the village and lakes, you experience the beauty that is fall in the High Sierra. (CB,L,D)

3. Travel north on Highway 395 along the base of the Sierra Nevada, climbing to South Lake Tahoe for Sunday Brunch at Harrah’s Forest Buffet. Arrive in Sacramento in the late afternoon. (CB,BR)

This mountain vacation includes door-to-door service, deluxe motorcoach service, accommodations, 7 meals (2CB,1BR,2L,2D), all tours and attractions


• 2 nights Tonopah (historic Mizpah Hotel), 2 nights Las Vegas (Treasure Island)

• Haunted Vegas & Mobster Tour – visit the grounds haunted by “Bugsy” Siegel, Liberace, Redd Foxx and Elvis; learn the fascinating history of Las Vegas’ “mobster years”

• The Goodsprings Ghost Hunt – Walk the ghost town and sit in the Pioneer Saloon, “speak” to the ghosts that inhabit the old mining town

• Belmont – A “semi-abandoned” ghost town to explore near Tonopah

• Ghost stories at the Mizpah; visits to the ghost towns of Goldfield, Gold Point, Rhyolite, Beatty and Bodie, all with ghosts of their own

• Teachatticup Mine Tour – Tony’s guides regale you with stories of the living and the dead

• Air to Las Vegas, door-to-door service• 10 meals: 4 full breakfasts, 3 lunches,

3 dinners• 1800/2000 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

Fly to Las Vegas, then trace a one way route through Nevada, searching for ghosts and visiting the towns they live in; over the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains back to Sacramento.

Our Goodsprings Ghost Hunt and Haunted Las Vegas & Mobster Tour will be conducted by Robert George Allen. At the age of 7, Robert had his first ghost encounter when he was visited by the spirit of a family member who would sit at the foot of his bed. The deceased man would smile at young Robert and then his image would dissolve. His parents thought he had an overactive imagination. As Robert got older, he became a musician with an interest in hypnotism. His musical career took him to Vegas’ biggest showrooms over 25 years, but he never lost his interest in the paranormal. He created the Haunted Vegas Tour in 2004, and along with the Goodsprings Ghost Hunt, has received numerous awards from Trip Advisor and others. If you’re not a believer going in, you may be a believer coming out…

1. Arrive in Las Vegas in the early afternoon. Check into your hotel, then join us at 5:30pm for a great pizza dinner at Grimaldi’s, an east coast institution when It comes to pizza. After dinner, visit the Neon Museum, where old Vegas signs live on.

Then we are joined by our guide Robert, who will narrate the history of “The Strip” and point out some of Las Vegas’ most haunted spots. Return to the hotel about 9:30pm. Treasure Island – 2 nights (D)

2. The Teachatticup Mine and the little town of Nelson make for a fascinating history lesson. Back in town, take the afternoon off before heading to Goodsprings this evening for an authentic Ghost Hunt. After a couple of minutes of instruction, chances are good you’ll be talking to the spirit world. The Pioneer Saloon is the place where Clark Gable waited for word on his wife, Carole Lombard. Alas, Gable burned holes in the bar with his cigar and his love died in the mountains in a plane crash. We’ll enjoy a barbecue at the old saloon and explore town after dark, ghost meters in hand. (FB,D)

3. Goldfield is just south of Tonopah, and has a colorful history. Learn about the world championship title fight, which took an astounding 42 rounds, held there In 1906. Yes, Goldfield was a boomtown like no other around the turn of the last century. Today, it’s a sleepy, dusty town in the middle of nowhere.

Beatty, Rhyolite and the Gold Point are also on the itinerary today, as you journey north from Las Vegas to central Nevada. From a house made of glass to a former McDonald’s franchise operator turned ghost town owner, you’ll see the sights and meet the characters that make them legendary. Arrive in Tonopah in late afternoon. Tonight, dinner in the Jack Dempsey Room and a be entertained by a talk about the ghosts who roam the Mizpah Hotel – 2 nights. (FB,L,D)

4. Established In 1865 following a silver strike, Belmont is one of Nevada’s most spectacular ghost towns. Level streets, a few residents in town to keep things in order, it’s a great place to explore. Our guide lives in town and is helping to restore the old courthouse. A fascinating look at a ghost town on a comeback. Back in Tonopah, there is time to explore. (FB,L)

Ghosts & Ghost Towns of Old NevadaBe a part of a REAL ghost hunt and explore old ghost towns

5 Days • March 29 – April 2

– Continued to page 15

2016 Dream Book 15

www.goodspringsghosthunt.comwww.eldoradocanyonminetours.com

www.mizpahhotel.netwww.silverstateghosttowns.com/belmont

• Tour Scotty’s Castle, with visits to Zabriske’s Point and Badwater Salt Flats

• 3 nights at Furnace Creek Ranch• Visit Manzanar National Historic Site• Fly to Las Vegas; deluxe motorcoach return to

Sacramento• 9 meals: 1 breakfast, 3 full breakfasts,

5 lunches• Door-to-door service• Services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour

Director• 1900/2250 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTSDeath Valley & Eastern Sierra NevadaFeaturing Manzanar National Historic Site, Scotty’s Castle and the

breathtaking scenery of Highway 395

5 Days • February 28 – March 3

You are sure to be surprised by the beauty, intrigued by the stories, and awed by the splendor that is Death Valley National Park and the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Death Valley… its name alone conjures up all sorts of images: lonely prospectors, teams of mules on boxes of borax, and early television westerns. Join us for this journey through spectacular scenery, awesome beauty; relive a bit of history and make some new friends as we traverse the deserts of California. 1-3. After a short flight arrive in Las Vegas, a “small” oasis in the desert. After a quick

bite to eat, follow in the footsteps of the early emigrants. Learn more about the early travelers and the consequences of their haste over the next few days during visits to the sights in Death Valley… Badwater Salt Flats, Zabriske’s Point, the Borax Works, Ubehebe Crater and, of course, Scotty’s famous “Spanish villa.” Furnace Creek Ranch – 3 nights (2FB,3L)

4. Explore Manzanar National Historic Site, a windswept reminder of those Americans of Japanese ancestry interned here from 1942-1945. Settle in for the night in Bishop surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada

5. One last ghost town experience today, and a most interesting one it is. Visit Bodie State Park, just over the border in California. The town is being preserved in a state of “arrested decay.” Lunch is in Bridgeport, and you drive through the magnificent

and White Mountain ranges. Creekside Inn (FB,L)

5. Travel north along Highway 395 with a stop in Carson Valley for a traditional Basque lunch at JT’s Restaurant before returning over the Sierra Nevada to Sacramento. (B,L)


Sierra Nevada mountains, arriving in Sacramento in late afternoon. (FB,L)


Bridgeport

Belmont

Tonopah

Gold Pointe

CA

Goldfield

Beatty

GoodspringsLas Vegas

Nelson

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Rhyolite

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http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/national-parks/death-valley-national-park/

www.nps.gov./devawww.nps.gov/manz

www.furnacecreekresort.com

Ghosts & Ghost Towns (Con’t from page 14)


• Experience three scenic train rides: Royal Gorge, Cumbres & Toltec and the Durango & Silverton

• Discover Royal Gorge Bridge and Park• Explore Great Sand Dunes National Park• Thrill to a Jeep tour in the San Juan

Mountains• Fly high in Telluride on a gondola ride• 11 meals: 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches• Roundtrip air to Colorado Springs/from

Durango• Door-to-door airport service• 3350/3750 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Fly to Colorado Springs and enjoy a hosted lunch en route to your hotel. Best Western Canon City – 2 nights (L)

2. Climb aboard the Royal Gorge Scenic Railway for a journey through the spectacular Royal Gorge. Since 1879, these tracks have followed the winding, tumbling Arkansas River deep within the soaring, 1,000-foot granite cliffs of Colorado’s Royal Gorge. Travel in First Class in the enclosed, glass-domed cars, offering spectacular views of the breathtaking scenery. Hanging high above Colorado’s wild Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge is America’s highest suspension bridge. Re-born after a disastrous fire in 2013, the bridge and its attractions are back. Walk across the bridge or try the new aerial gondolas that will glide 2,200 feet across the gorge and over 1,200 feet above the river! (B)

3. Explore Great Sand Dunes National Park this morning; the tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece of a diverse

landscape of grasslands, wetlands, conifer and aspen forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Arrive this afternoon in Alamosa, Colorado. Hampton Inn & Suites (B,L)

4. Crossing back and forth across the Colorado and the New Mexico border, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Narrow Gauge Railroad is truly a memorable experience. You will sense the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains as the train travels through tunnels, above deep gorges, and over Cumbres Pass. The first 10 people to sign up for the tour will ride in the First Class Parlor Car. The train’s journey ends in Chama, New Mexico where you will continue by motorcoach to Durango, Colorado. Best Western Rio Grande (B,L)

5. The route to Silverton aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is an unforgettable journey along the spectacular Animas River. The route boasts some of Colorado’s most striking canyon scenery. Free time is planned in Silverton; a former silver mining camp now

a designated National Historic Landmark District. Travel by motorcoach to Ouray, a small intimate community nestled in some of the most rugged and towering peaks of the Rockies. Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs – 2 nights (B,L)

6. Today there is an optional 4x4 vehicle tour into the mountains before the entire group travels to the historical town of Telluride, tucked into a box canyon surrounded on three sides by 14,000-foot peaks. The town’s colorful Victorian-era homes, clapboard storefronts, boutiques, art galleries, gourmet restaurants and historic buildings are a delight to explore. After a hosted lunch you have the option to visit the shops in town or take the gondola that climbs 1,790 vertical feet before reaching Station St. Sophia at 10,540 feet. It’s a quiet 13-minute ride from town with breathtaking scenery and 360 degree panoramic views. (B,L)

7. Depart this fall foliage paradise for Durango and fly home this afternoon. You will be talking about this amazing tour for a long time! (B)

This tour will have a maximum of 25 people, so please sign up early!$3330 p.p./dbl.occ., $3740 single

Rails Around Colorado Featuring three scenic train rides during fall foliage

7 Days • September 24-30

www.royalgorgeroute.comwww.cumbrestoltec.comwww.durangotrain.com

www.twinpeakslodging.com

CO

5-6

3

NM

Colorado Springs

Canon City

Alamosa

Jeep TourRoyal GorgeBridge and Park

4

AntonitoChama

Durango

SilvertonTelluride

Ouray1-2

2016 Dream Book 17

• Five rail trips in the Pacific Northwest: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, Mt. Hood Railroad, Amtrak’s Empire Builder, Coast Starlight and Cascade

• Explore Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

• Discover Bob’s Red Mill with a tour and lunch• Enjoy lunch at Wilf’s Restaurant, inside

Portland’s historic Union Station• Guided tour of Eugene, home of the

University of Oregon• Roundtrip air to/from Portland• Door-to-door airport service• 8 meals: 1 breakfast, 1 brunch, 4 lunches,


HIGHLIGHTS

1. Begin your journey in Portland after a mid-morning flight. Lunch is served at Wilf’s Restaurant, inside the city’s historic Union Station. At the Oregon Rail Heritage Center discover Portland’s importance as a rail hub and experience a scenic train ride along the Willamette River. Back at Union Station, board Amtrak’s Empire Builder for a ride across the mighty Columbia River to White Salmon, WA. Cross the river back into Oregon by motorcoach and enjoy dinner and an evening stay in Hood River. Comfort Inn & Suites (L,D)

2. It’s Sunday and that means BRUNCH! Climb aboard the Mt. Hood Scenic Railroad for a three-course dining experience complete with champagne! Enjoy the passing scenery in the shadow of Mt. Hood before arriving in Parkdale. Return to Portland in the afternoon, pausing en route for pictures at majestic Multnomah Falls (time permitting). An optional theatre performance may be available this evening. Details will follow. The Mark Spencer Hotel – 2 nights (B,BR)

3. Across the Columbia in southern Washington find Mt. St. Helens, an active volcano remembered for its memorable

eruption on May 18, 1980. Rediscover the story during a visit to the national volcanic monument’s visitor center. Return to Portland by train as you meet Amtrak’s Cascade in Kelso, WA. (L)

4. Are you a fan of Bob’s Red Mill brand oatmeal or baking flours? In Milwaukie, just outside Portland, explore the company’s mill during an informative tour and enjoy lunch at the company’s nearby restaurant, along with the chance to shop in the company store! Back in Portland at Union Station, it’s time for one last rail adventure, this one aboard Amtrak’s Coast Starlight for a journey south to Eugene. Upon arrival, dinner is featured at the Oregon Electric Station, the end of the line for the Willamette Valley’s Electric Railway, completed in 1914. The restored station is now a restaurant featuring dining in and amongst its historic railcars. Hilton Hotel (L,D)

5. School’s in session at the University of Oregon so don’t be surprised if you see a “Duck.” Explore the town on a brief morning tour then it’s off to Oregon City for lunch and to discover a train of a different kind – a wagon train! Before the railroad there were thousands of covered wagons that brought settlers to the Oregon Territory. Learn about the great migration at the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Your return flight home departs from Portland in the late afternoon. (L)

1

Eugene

Hood RiverPortland

Kelso

Mt. St. HelensNat’l Volcanic Site

White Salmon

WA

OR

2-3

4

Rails Around Oregon & The Columbia River GorgeA rail adventure to Oregon and Southern Washington

5 Days • October 22-26, 2016

www.mthoodrr.comwww.markspencer.com

www.amtrakcascades.com



• Experience the Monterey Movie Tour• Explore 17-Mile Drive• Choose a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium

or Carmel on a walking food tour • Discover Salinas Valley on an agriculture tour• Enjoy lunch at the historic Steinbeck House • Door-to-door service• Deluxe motorcoach service• 5 meals: 2 full breakfasts, 3 lunches • 1150/1350 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Begin with a comfortable ride to the coast. Lunch is hosted in the beautiful Carmel Valley before checking into your hotel. Along with your accommodations, enjoy a full cooked-to-order breakfast each morning and complimentary evening reception each night. Embassy Suites Monterey Bay-Seaside – 2 nights (L)

2. Discover the Monterey Movie Tour, which features both magnificent landscapes and scenes from some 200 movies filmed across the Monterey Peninsula. Travel through Monterey, Pacific Grove, the 17-Mile Drive, and Carmel-by-the-Sea on a customized coach with video screens, hearing behind-the-scenes stories of

Hollywood glamour while watching clips from famous movies filmed on the peninsula. Lunch is included at the Inn at Spanish Bay. As your tour ends in Carmel, you have an option: Stay in Carmel for a three-hour, guided walking tour offering food tastings from seven unique eateries and specialty shops, coupled with historical and architectural highlights from a local guide (extra cost $40) or visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium (admission cost included). (FB,L)

3. Learn all about the Salinas Valley’s agriculture industry, otherwise known as the “Salad Bowl of the World.” Observe vegetable field harvesting and packing,

irrigation, and planting. Learn about organic farming and discover where much of your fresh food comes from! Lunch is hosted at the historic Steinbeck House followed by a stop at Casa de Fruta for an opportunity to pick up a bounty of your own to bring home! (FB,L)


Springtime in Monterey Featuring two nights at the Embassy Suites Monterey Bay


www.montereybayaquarium.orgwww.steinbeckhouse.com/restaurant

Each Sunday, someone who has traveled with us recently wins a $100 Travel Card, no winner and the value increases $100 a week!

Contests, Travel News, updates

on your favorite Sports Leisure

destinations, Cultural Arts and FUN!

The Travel Guys

“Making you a SMARTER traveler!”

Co-Hosts Tom Romano and Mark Hoffmann

EVERY Sunday 3:00-4:00 PM | KFBK, AM 1530, FM 93.1

LLC

The Travel Guys are brought to you by:

2016 Dream Book 19

• 7 nights accommodations at the Royal Lahaina, a classic hotel on the Kaanapali coast – guaranteed upgraded oceanview rooms with balconies for all

• Unique cultural adventures on the islands – visit the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm, Hawaiian history talk in Old Lahaina, a farm-to-fork lunch in the high country

• Daytrip to Kalaupapa, Molokai – Fly on a private plane directly to the National Park site at Kaulapapa, guided tour featuring the Father Damien story and box lunch, a Sports Leisure exclusive

• 2 Exciting Nights of Entertainment – Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar show and U’lalena, Hawaiian history in song and dance

• Free day to do as you wish – shop in Lahaina or at Whaler’s Village, relax by the pool

• Roundtrip air, door-to-door airport service• 14 meals: 7 full breakfasts, 3 lunches,

4 dinners• Maximum group size 25, transportation by

bus, mini-bus, taxi and private plane in the islands.

• 4000/4850 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTSFor the past three years, we have offered this unique package. Now, it gets even better with the addition of a flightseeing trip Kalaupapa to experience the legend of Father Damien. No wonder we modestly proclaim it, “One of the Best Hawaii Tours Ever.”

1. Arrive in the islands just after noon. Make your way to the west, or Kaanapali side of Maui. Your accommodations are special, with lots of Hawaiian tradition. The beach is steps away, so you can kick your shoes off and feel the white sand between your toes anytime you like! We have a “tide-you-over” reception waiting for you at the hotel. After a short orientation, there’s free time until we gather together for dinner. A unique island treat awaits tonight, with dinner and a slack key guitar concert at the famous Napili Kai Resort (known for spectacular sunsets). Royal Lahaina – 7 nights (D)

2. A full buffet breakfast, with fresh fruit and lots of choices, is included each morning. If you wish, you may order off the regular menu (Because not everyone likes a buffet every day!)

Depart the hotel in our small coach (which allows us to go places the big coaches can’t), heading for “up Country.” First stop is O’o Farms, where you’ll learn about your food, watch it picked from the garden and then prepared. A true “Farm-to-Fork” experience. Then it’s on to taste pineapple wine and see some ancient Chinese temples and commemorative gardens. (FB,L)

3. Visit the Maui Tropical Plantation and a couple of our favorite shopping stops on an afternoon tour. Learn how to shell a coconut and about other native Hawaiian plants and fruits, and pick up souvenirs to take home. A bit touristy, but fun and educational.

Tonight, dinner and U’lalena (oo-la-layna), a wonderful cultural performance in an indoor theater in Lahaina. (FB,D)

4. A hula girl shares the history of Old Lahaina, making the old whaling port come to life. After time for lunch on your own in town, our shuttles will drop you at Whaler’s Village if you’d like to shop, or spend an easy afternoon at the Royal Lahaina. (FB,D) 5. Spend the day on the island of Molokai, as you learn the history of Father Damien, or Saint Damien of Molokai, as the late American hero is officially known. Arrive on the island after a short flight from Maui. You’ll meet “the locals,” and believe us, there is no place more “local” in the islands than Molokai. This is what Hawaii used to be and visiting there for a day is fascinating; a throw back to 50 years ago. When Hansen’s disease (leprosy) was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands, King Kamehameha V banished all afflicted to the Kalaupapa peninsula on the north shore of Molokai.

Since 1866, more than 8,000 people, mostly Hawaiians, have died at Kaluapapa. Once a prison, Kaluapapa is now refuge for the few remaining residents who are now cured, but were forced to live their lives in isolation. Damien Tours (providing your sightseeing) is owned and operated by a Kaluapapa resident. At tour’s end, board a private plane for the short (12 minute) flight back to Maui. (FB,L)

6. Make your way into the center of the island, to the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm, to meet… the goats. It’s a “hands-on” tour with cheese tasting at the conclusion. Down

the road, a gourmet lunch awaits at the old Hali’maile General Store. After lunch, would you care to join us in tasting some local rum? Return to the hotel about 4pm. (FB,L)

7. Today is free to explore as you wish. Your Tour Director is happy to assist you and there is an activities desk at the hotel. Your Tour Director invites you to a special farewell to Maui dinner this evening. (FB,D)

8. Your return flight leaves the island mid-morning with a 7:30am departure from your hotel. Land at home in the early evening and your door-to-door service is waiting! (FB)


www.nps.gov/kala/index.htmwww.oofarm.com

www.bevgannonrestaurants.com/haliimailewww.visitmaui.com

www.royallahaina.com

Maui and Molokai, The Story of Father DamienA 7-night stay on Maui, with an exclusive flight to Molokai, home of the late Father Damien



1. The Azalea Festival is Norfolk’s biggest celebration of the year, and you’ve arrived just in time. Marriott Hotel Downtown – 2 nights

2. The Parade of Nations begins the day, and your reserved seating is only steps from the hotel. Nearby Nauticus is a huge museum on the Norfolk waterfront celebrating all things nautical, including a chance to tour the USS Wisconsin, a proud WWII-era battleship. After dinner, the curtain rises on the Virginia International Tattoo. This is the largest military band spectacle in the nation, albeit one with a decidedly Scottish flair, which you’ll enjoy from comfortable indoor seating! (FB,D)

3. At the Norfolk Botanical Garden, take a tram tour of the largest collection of azaleas on the East Coast, then take the drive over and under the Chesapeake Bay to Virginia’s Eastern Shore, a narrow strip of land dominated by unspoiled nature seemingly lost in time. Ocean City, Maryland is your final destination where dinner and all-suite accommodations await. Hilton Guest Suites – 2 nights (FB,D)

4. Meet the “residents” that define the character of the area, such as the wild ponies on Assateague Island. The villages of Berlin and Salisbury are like taking a

step back in time. And we’ve surely saved the best for last, a dinner of hot, steamed hard shell crabs at the famed Red Roost, ripe for the cracking. This is the Mid-Atlantic at its best! (FB,D)

5. Say goodbye to Ocean City (but not before checking out the “3,073 miles to Sacramento” sign on U.S. 50), and head north to Dover, Delaware’s Capital City. There you’ll tour the Air Mobility Command Museum and First State Heritage Park which includes the 1792 State House and the Johnson Victrola Museum. Feeling lucky? Dover Downs Casino is across the street from our hotel! Hilton Garden Inn (FB,L)

Red, White and PlaidA celebration of all things patriotic featuring the Virginia International Tattoo!


• Norfolk’s Azalea Festival, Parade of Nations & International Tattoo

• Virginia’s Eastern Shore – from wild ponies to cracked crabs!

• 2 nights on the beach in Ocean City • Delaware’s Capital City, Dover• Annapolis – home of the U.S. Naval Academy• Ft. McHenry where the Star Spangled Banner

was penned• Early American and nautical history at every

turn• Roundtrip air to Norfolk/from Baltimore• 12 meals: daily full breakfast, 2 lunches,

4 dinners• Door-to-door airport service• 2850/3100 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

6. Arrive in Annapolis in the mid-morning and embark on a harbor cruise showcasing the city as she was meant to be seen – from the water. A guided city tour follows including a walk through the U.S. Naval Academy and a visit to the Maryland Statehouse, the oldest in the nation. Recount your memories of a wonderful adventure at our farewell dinner. SpringHill Suites (FB,D)

7. En route to Washington/Baltimore International Airport, visit one of the most historic sites in America, Ft. McHenry, where the young lawyer Francis Scott Key witnessed the Star Spangled Banner “by the dawn’s early light” during the War of 1812. (FB,L)


Baltimore

Annapolis

Dover

Ocean City

VA

Norfolk

3-4

MD

DE

5

6

Assateague Island

Chesapeake Bay

1-2

www.vafest.orgwww.assateagueisland.com

www.amcmuseum.comwww.usna.edu

2016 Dream Book 21

• Westin Arlington Gateway Hotel – 5 nights• Tour Washington, DC by day and night• Visit Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S.

Capitol and the National Cathedral• Explore the Smithsonian Institution, National

Museums and Monuments• See 110 Degrees in the Shade at famed

Ford’s Theatre• Washington’s Mt. Vernon• Roundtrip air to/from Washington• 10 meals: daily full breakfast, 2 lunches,


HIGHLIGHTS

1. Take a morning flight bound for Washington’s Reagan National Airport. From this in-town airport, it’s only a few miles to your hotel and its oh-so-Heavenly Beds! Westin Arlington Gateway Hotel – 5 nights

2. Embark on a comprehensive city tour with our local guide extraordinaire, Sandra Sheksin. She will spin tales of Washington’s dynamic past and present while orienting you to the National Mall, important for later in the itinerary when you have free time to explore Smithsonian and National Museums on your own. (FB,L)

3. Witness Arlington National Cemetery by narrated tram tour with stops at the Kennedy family graves, Tomb of the Unknowns and the home of General & Mrs. Robert E. Lee – no, that’s not a mausoleum on the hill! Begin your exploration of the Mall this afternoon. After dinner, take your seat in Ford’s Theatre for its production of 110 Degrees in the Shade. (FB,D)

4. Sleep in or take a ride along Embassy Row to Washington National Cathedral. The organ is spectacular during the morning service and the stained glass, breathtaking. The afternoon offers a second chance to visit Smithsonian or National Museums. In the evening, “D.C. After Dark” spotlights the city’s beautifully illuminated monuments and public buildings. (FB,D)

5. Off to Alexandria, Virginia, and the home of her most famous residents, George and Martha Washington. Throughout the estate, Mt. Vernon is teaming with history and activity. Tonight, toast another memorable vacation with dinner at Filomena Ristorante in Georgetown, a Sports Leisure favorite. (FB,D)

6. A guided tour of the United States Capitol and lunch bring your vacation to a monumental end. (FB,L)


As we go to press, we are in the process of clearing the security hurdles to once again add a tour to our Executive Mansion, The White House, to this exciting itinerary. The process will additionally require that each traveler submit to a security screening before our arrival to include your full legal name, birthdate, place of birth and Social Security Number. Details will follow…

www.nps.gov/state/dcwww.nationalmall.org

www.fords.org

Just Washington, DCExperience our nation’s capital region from top to bottom



• 5 nights at the Marriott Marquis, Times Square premier address and location

• On the “Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour” Tony takes you on an adventure from Coney Island to the bridge (yeah, dat bridge) stopping for pizza and dessert

• The Bronx – Colman (your guide) is a real New Yorker and he’ll take you on a trip to meet first-responders like himself and to the real Little Italy; optional Bronx Botanical Gardens or Zoo (included, but your choice)

• The new 9/11 Memorial & Museum – inside and outside looks at a moment in history that will live forever

• Tickets to two Broadway shows – one you choose, one we select for the group – choices will be made in January

• Tickets to the Rockettes Spring Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

• From pizza to an Italian lunch in The Bronx to dinner in the Theater District, a wide variety of wonderful dining experiences are included

• 6 meals: 3 lunches, 3 dinners• Experienced Tour Directors from a staff that

has been taking people to New York for a quarter century

• Roundtrip air, door-to-door airport service• 3800/4400 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

Special note: While we welcome all travelers, realistically, this trip requires some walking in the neighborhoods. If you cannot easily walk 3-4 city blocks without difficulty, we would not recommend this itinerary for you.

1. Depart early, arriving in New York in the late afternoon. Your hotel is in a truly great location, allowing you to walk to dozens of restaurants and shops, not to mention the opportunity to enjoy the excitement of Times Square. You are in Times Square at a premier address, the Marriott. A casual welcome dinner is planned. Marriott Marquis Times Square – 5 nights (D)

2. Begin your New York experience with a trip to “Da Bronx” this morning. Learn the story of how this neighborhood got its name, and how it has gone from rags to riches and back again over the years. Visit a fire and a police station and get some unique souvenirs. The real Little Italy is here in The Bronx. Dine in a neighborhood Italian restaurant, and after lunch, visit pastry and pasta shops, for dessert and another souvenir of The Bronx. Continue on to enjoy a brief afternoon visit to the Bronx Botanical

Gardens or the Zoo (one admission included, 90-minute visit). Tonight is your first Broadway show. (L)

3. Off to Brooklyn, where Tony Muia has been running “A Slice of Brooklyn” tours for ten years now. He’s been featured on national television more than once. Photo stops, pizza stops, dessert stops, Coney Island walking around stops, it’s all here. See Brooklyn from a guy who lives there. A pizza guy! Tonight, head to Radio City Music Hall for the Rockettes Spring Specatcular. A new show in its second season, it highlights the city of New York with a wide variety of song and dance spanning the generations. (L)

4. One last sightseeing adventure awaits, a visit to downtown Manhattan, site of the 9/11 Memorial. Your guide will help you learn more about that fateful day and the memorial to those who perished. Dine at a downtown landmark, stop in Greenwich Village and return to your hotel in mid-afternoon. You could add a third Broadway show this afternoon if you wish (curtains are generally at 3pm, you would skip the Greenwich stop). A casual dinner brings everyone together tonight at 6:30pm. (L,D)

5. Today is a free day to see whatever you’ve missed! Your Tour Directors will offer an optional visit to Liberty Island in the morning (ferry $14-$18, cost not included). Or visit the Met, the Guggenheim or shop at Macy’s. Baseball fans might like to join our tour to Yankee Stadium in the afternoon (you can do both, just one or neither, the stadium tour is also optional, extra cost $18). Most theaters are dark tonight, but we will gather for a farewell dinner! (D)

6. Depart for the airport at 10:15am. Your connecting flight arrives home at 7:45pm.


New York City: Broadway, Brooklyn and The BronxStay in Times Square, enjoy two Broadway shows and the NEW Rockettes Spring Spectacular

6 Days • April 28 – May 3

www.911memorial.orgwww.asliceofbrooklyn.com

www.arthuravenuebronx.com

2016 Dream Book 23

Mystery Tours have been a part of our schedule for more than 30 years. The concept is pretty simple: By definition, a Mystery Tour visits destinations that have either not previously been on our schedule or visit destinations where we have been before, but we are returning to experience something entirely different than before.

You don’t get to know where we are going, but we do provide you with climate information (so you know what to wear), and some “clues” about where you are going. Of course, we don’t want to make it too easy to figure out, so sometimes the clues have little “twists” to them.

Mystery Tours are for travelers who think they have been everywhere and for those who cherish the joy of surprise. One warning: Mystery Tours are among our most popular offerings. They fill up early, so be certain to make your reservations far in advance.

14th Annual ChristmasMystery Tour6 Days • December 2-7Last call! 4 seats available. The clues: Mystery Tours always feature great dining and fun food stops. Heck, even the Rockefellers would be impressed with this dinner. A lavish Sunday Brunch you say? In a hotel named after a man named Tom? So why isn’t it called the Tom Hotel?

Breakfast with a view (for 3 days)? Fancy accommodations? (The hotel pattern is 3 nights, 1 night, 1 night.) Oh, and the chocolate is FREE. Who doesn’t like free chocolate at Christmas? Fireworks? Of course! How about some really tacky

Christmas lights? How could that NOT put you in the holiday spirit? Catch a wave. Join us for this annual tradition. The package includes roundtrip air, door-to-door airport service and 10 meals. 2750/3050 Gold Passport Points


The 37th AnniversaryMusical Mystery TourCombining two “C’s” makes for a fascinating trip6 Days • May 21-26Those who enjoy multiple-night stays in a destination are in business. This tour is a 2-night/3-night trip, visiting two destinations. These are working men’s and women’s cities. One is named after a old TV show, the second will remind you of the joy of discovery. The luck of the Irish is a good thing to bring with you, but if you don’t have it, we’ll get you some. One place you’ll visit has been producing “nuts” for over a hundred years. The kind you eat. Maybe.

Have you got rhythm of any kind? If you do, we have found a place that will let your “inner music” come out, in a BIG way. One place produces 30,000 pounds every time it shifts. What the heck does THAT mean? Many people have long forgotten about this part of the 50’s. But we’ll bring it back to life. Music, did we mention that all different kinds of music are a part of your adventure? Includes 12 meals, accommodations in two treehouses (What kind of a clue is that?) for 5 nights, roundtrip air to and from the “two C’s,” and door-to-door airport service. 3000/3400 Gold Passport Points


A Mystery Tour Celebrating Our National Park Centennial2016 is the 100th birthday of ourNational Parks7 Days • August 7-13We honor all of the national park units around the country with this visit to an off-the-beaten-track set of destinations. A number of national park sites are included, along with some state parks, which add to the theme of the trip. Remember, not all park sites are about scenery. Some are historical places, built around learning about history, or the people who live(d) there and their cultures and traditions.

Every great adventures should have a Yellow Brick Road, don’t you think? This trip is no exception. (Some people have just decided we are going to Kansas. That would be wrong.) You’d travel north in August, wouldn’t you? Picture yourself on the shores of a mighty lake or river, sailing along and viewing shapes carved by the winds of time. Or walking among the remnants of history. Many more people once lived here, but it isn’t a ghost town by any means. Since you are “exploring” on this journey, it’s appropriate that one of your destinations is named for a famed sailor from many years ago. We won’t “hound” you to go inside one attraction, but you will find generations of movement inside. In one place, putting in your “two cents worth” would be particularly appropriate. If you love the great outdoors, and like to learn, this vacation definitely has your name on it. Limited to 28 passengers. Roundtrip air, 15 meals, door-to-door airport service, are all a part of this mysterious adventure. 3150/3500 Gold Passport Points


Mystery Tours, Your Chance to Discover a New Destination

At top left, The Gang at the Frank James Bank Museum (Jesse’s less famous brother) was waiting for us on our anniversary tour in May. Fortunately, no one was wounded. Meetin’ up with The James Gang, or a visit to Oz in Kansas, the museum we mean (pictured above). You never know where you could end up on a Mystery Tour, which frankly, is the reason many people go!


• Discover Zion National Park on a tram tour• Explore Bryce Canyon National Park during a

rim tour• Experience the North Rim of the Grand

Canyon• Meet the locals on a VIP tour of Best Friends

Animal Society• 12 meals: 2 breakfasts, 4 full breakfasts,

5 lunches, 1 dinner• Roundtrip air to/from Las Vegas• Door-to-door airport service• 2550/2950 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Begin your journey with a flight to Las Vegas. Lunch is hosted before arriving in Springdale, Utah where you will overnight. Your hotel is well situated in the middle of town with incredible views of the red rock. Holiday Inn Express – 2 nights (L)

2. Experience the grandeur of this region with the sights and sounds of the IMAX movie Treasures of the Gods. Then travel into Zion Canyon on a private tram tour viewing the national park’s towering red rock monoliths as you make your way along the Virgin River that created its beautiful

canyon. The afternoon is free to take a walk in the park, visit the shops in the town of Springdale or to relax back at the hotel. (B)

3. Leaving Zion, pause at several scenic stops for photos along the way to Bryce Canyon and check into your beautiful hotel with over-sized rooms. At Bryce Canyon National Park drive along the rim of the canyon making stops at several overlooks viewing the large collections of bizarre sandstone formations called “hoodoos.” Bryce Canyon Grand (B,L)

4. Travel to the remote North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. En route, take a VIP tour of Best Friends Animal Society, a sanctuary for abandoned and abused animals. In 1984, the founders build the sanctuary and dedicated their lives to housing and finding homes for unwanted dogs, cats, horses, bunnies and more while advocating the importance of “no kill.” The end of the day finds you very near one of the most least visited areas of a most popular national park. Grand Canyon North Rim Frontier Cabins (FB,L,D)

5. Many have already experienced the crowds at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Today you will be treated to the solitude of the North Rim with a tour to the end of the road for the spectacular view from Cape Royal! Lunch will be hosted at the historic North Rim Lodge before traveling to St. George, Utah. Hilton Garden Inn – 2 nights (FB,L)

6. Travel back in time for a unique experience at the Dinosaur Discovery Site, home to exceptionally well-preserved dinosaur tracks. Enjoy lunch at an exclusive private country club before visiting some historical sites in St. George. (FB,L)

7. Travel back to Las Vegas for your flight home. (FB)


Amazing National Parks of the Great SouthwestFeaturing Zion, Bryce and the remote North Rim of the Grand Canyon

7 Days • June 1-7

Springdale

Kanab

Bryce City

LasVegas

NV

AZ

St. George

3

UT

4

1-2

“North Rim” Grand Canyon Nat’l Park

Bryce CanyonNat’l Park

ZionNat’l Park

5-6

www.nps.gov/zion/index.htmwww.nps.gov/brca/index.htm

2016 Dream Book 25

• Stay 3 nights at the Drury Inn, city center in Santa Fe

• Experience a scenic desert train ride• Visit Pecos and Bandelier National

Monuments• Shopping in Madrid along the Turquoise Trail• 6 meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners• Roundtrip air to/from Albuquerque• Door-to-door airport service• 1850/2100 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Arrive in Albuquerque and check into your hotel. and enjoy the hotel’s “Kickback,” which includes complimentary hot foods and drinks. It’s a snack for some, a meal for others. Drury Inn & Suites – 3 nights

2. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, with over 600 balloons, is the largest ballooning event and the most photographed event on earth. Attend several events during the next few days, each featuring an upgraded experience with access to the Chasers Club Lounge, which offers private outdoor seating where you can enjoy food and refreshments right on the field, with balloons rising right in front of you. The Special Shape Rodeo is today, along with a trip on the Sandia Peak

The Albuquerque International Balloon FiestaFeaturing reserved upgraded seating in the Chasers Lounge

4 Days • October 5-8, 2016

Aerial Tramway for lunch, and a special presentation at the Turquoise Museum. (B,L)

3. This morning is the Mass Ascensions: the launch of all participating balloons. A special docent-led tour is scheduled this morning at the Abruzzo International Balloon Museum. Back at the hotel, enjoy some downtime before tonight’s “Glowdeo,” a static display of the Special Shape balloons. Following dinner is the spectacular afterglow fireworks! (B,D)

4. Enjoy a hosted lunch and some free time in Albuquerque’s Old Town before heading to the airport for your return flight home. (B,L)

1. Fly to Albuquerque arriving in the early afternoon. Lunch is at The Standard Diner, featured by Food Network star Guy Fieri. After lunch, iconic Route 66 takes you right through the heart of downtown to Old Town Albuquerque. Take a moment to reflect inside the San Felipe de Neri Parish,

dating back to the city’s beginnings in the early 1700’s, shop the numerous eclectic boutiques, or just grab an ice cream cone and listen to the soothing music of pan-flutes. Catch the New Mexico Rail Runner for a scenic train ride across the desert to Santa Fe. Check into your hotel and join your Tour Director for a causal 2 block stroll to the plaza. Dinner is on your own at one of the many excellent nearby restaurants. Drury Plaza Hotel – 3 nights (L)

2. This morning a trolley tour will orient you to this historic city. Learn the early history of Santa Fe on a guided tour of the Palace of the Governors. Beautiful Native American-made jewelry and pottery are on display by artisans just outside the door. Enjoy free time on the plaza or an included optional visit to the Georgia O’Keefe

Museum. Tonight, dinner is at Eloisa, the restaurant in your hotel, with acclaimed chef John Rivera Sedlar. After spending time in Los Angeles, he has returned home to Santa Fe to prepare cuisine based on his grandmother’s recipes, hence the name of his restaurant! (B,D)

3. After a brief visit to Santa Fe’s unique capitol to view its extensive art collection, venture beyond the city limits with a local guide to hear the story of human migration to the area. At Pecos National Historical Monument, glimpse into the lives of the Pueblo Indians, its first inhabitants. En route back to town for lunch on your own, hear about a decisive Civil War battle that took place here. An optional excursion to Bandelier National Monument is offered in the afternoon to view native cliff dwellings. Tonight’s dinner is at a local favorite, La Casa Sena, featuring imaginative Southwestern cuisine. (B,D)

4. This morning wind your way along the Turquoise Trail, aptly named for the dozens of nearby mines producing the signature stone of the Southwest. In the artist enclave of Madrid, you’ll have free time for lunch or to splurge on a little bauble for yourself. Return to Albuquerque for a docent-guided tour of the award-winning Pueblo Cultural Center before your flight home. (B)


This tour sells out every year. Early reservations are strongly recommended! The tour includes roundtrip air to/from Albuquerque, accommodations, all tours and attractions listed, 6 meals (3B,2L,1D) and the services of a Sports Leisure Tour Director. 1800/2100 Gold Passport Points.


www.palaceofthegovernors.orgwww.indianpueblo.org

Esplendor de Santa FeFrom the views to the food, to the people, a city truly unlike any other!

4 Days • May 30 – June 2


1. Fly to Wisconsin’s Capital City of Madison. Dinner features your first heaping helping of Midwest cuisine that’s guaranteed to stick to your ribs. Hilton Garden Inn – 2 nights (D)

2. The community of Spring Green is home to Wisconsin’s most-visited attraction, The House on the Rock. Alex Johnson’s mysterious residence is at once a true curiosity and architectural marvel. With a collection second only to the Smithsonian in terms of size, including the world’s largest carousel and pipe organ, it must truly be seen to be believed. Back in Madison, tour the Wisconsin State Capitol and the National Mustard Museum. (A museum dedicated to mustard? Who knew?) (FB,D)

3. Cross the Mississippi at Dubuque, then head up the Great River Road to Balltown and lunch in Iowa’s oldest restaurant. In nearby Dyersville, “have a catch” at the Field of Dreams. Onward to Waterloo and dinner in a restaurant/gallery you simply won’t believe. The Sistine Chapel has nothing on Galleria de Paco! Consider the ceiling murals were created with common spray paint makes it all the more amazing. Country Inn and Suites (FB,D)

4. Waterloo is the site of the John Deere Tractor Assembly Plant where you’ll

America’s HeartlandSee America the way she used to be… the way she ought to be

8 Days • May 2-9

have a morning tour. Then head south to Shellsburg for lunch. There you’ll visit Villa Comagena and meet the treasure of the house, Inge. As if her home-cooked meal was not enough, Inge’s stories will keep you smiling all the way to Cedar Rapids, custodian of the largest collection of Grant Wood paintings in the U.S., as well as the studio where he lived and painted for many years. Country Inn and Suites, Iowa City – 2 nights (FB,L)

5. Have you ever wondered where your Amana Radarange was born? You’ll find out when you visit the Amana Colonies. Settled by a German religious sect in the mid-1800s and made famous by their advancements in the area of refrigeration early in the last century, the Amanas still retain their historic charm. From homemade crafts to antiques to their famous Dandelion Wine, this is the place to find the perfect souvenir of your visit. In the afternoon, visit West Branch, President Herbert Hoover’s hometown, and his library and museum located there. (B,L)

crowning of the Tulip Queen. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase imported lace, tasty Dutch letters and locally-made bologna before continuing on to Iowa’s capital, Des Moines. Embassy Suites – 2 nights (B,D)

7. Winterset, seat of Madison County of book and movie fame, is famous not only for its covered bridges. It’s also the hometown of John Wayne, born here in 1907. You’ll tour his birth home and museum, then take a guided journey through the country to see a few of the bridges, including Roseman Bridge where your lunch is served. (FB,L)

8. Iowa’s stunning five-domed State Capitol is a beauty to witness both inside and out. Finally, a hearty farewell luncheon featuring a bounty of Midwest favorites brings your adventure in America’s Heartland to a close. (FB,L)


• 2 nights each in Madison, Iowa City & Des Moines

• 1 night Waterloo to tour the John Deere Tractor Assembly Plant

• Tour the Wisconsin and Iowa State Capitols• Enjoy Tulip Time in Pella• See movie sites from Bridges of Madison

County to the Field of Dreams• Visit the House on the Rock, Amana Colonies,

Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and see the masterworks of Grant Wood

• 15 meals: daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

• Door-to-door airport service• Roundtrip air to Madison/from Des Moines• 3000/3450 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

6. Welcome to Pella. Settled by the Dutch over 100 years ago, the community still holds tight to its heritage. Enjoy the annual Tulip Time Festival, complete with street scrubbing, a parade, and the

www.thehouseontherock.comwww.fodmoviesite.comwww.pellahistorical.org

www.johnwaynebirthplace.museum

Winterset

Des Moines

Pella

Waterloo

WI

West Branch

Iowa City

AmanaColonies

Dyersville

Balltown

Spring GreenMadison

4-5

IA

6-7

1-2

3

2016 Dream Book 27

A brand new itinerary, combining three great ideas. An extended stay in the Hamptons, compete with sightseeing and dining fitting the region; a fun day of racing at The Belmont, one of America’s premier race tracks; a night on Broadway in New York City. It’s a week you will long remember.

1. Fly to New York’s La Guardia Airport and then head west on Long Island to your stopover point. A casual dinner is included. Hilton Garden Inn – Melville (D)

2. A stunning group of mansions make up what is referred to as “Long Island’s Gold Coast.” Tour one of them, Oheka Castle, this morning, enjoy a lovely mid-day meal and then head to Stony Brook, one of the many great places to window shop on Long Island. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon. It’s a quaint boutique spot in quiet Sag Harbor. Sag Harbor Inn – 3 nights (FB,L,D)

3. Montauk is the northeastern-most community on Long Island, even past the Hamptons. Would you believe there are ranches out here? There are, and you will visit one today to enjoy a border collie demonstration, a bit of a Wild West Show and more for your entertainment. A stop at Montauk Point Lighthouse gives you the opportunity to photograph the oldest lighthouse in the state. Lunch is at the exclusive Montauk Yacht Club. Stop in East Hampton on the way back to browse the shops, and perhaps get an ice cream treat. (CB,L,D)

4. Head to exclusive Shelter Island, reachable by ferry, then onto the village of Greenport. A tour of Sag Harbor is also on the itinerary. If a performance is available, attend a show at the Bay Street Theater this evening. (CB,L,D)

From the Hamptons to BroadwayFeaturing three nights in The Hamptons, racing at Belmont,

a night on Broadway

7 Days • June 12-18

• 3 nights in The Hamptons at the Sag Harbor Inn

• Tour and dine in one of Long Island’s Gold Coast mansions, shop in the exclusive neighborhoods of Stony Brook and East Hampton

• Montauk Lighthouse tour, Deep Hollow Ranch show, lunch at the Montauk Yacht Club

• Tour Sag Harbor, Shelter Island and Greenport, picturesque Hamptons communities

• A day of racing at Belmont, a Triple Crown Racetrack, reserved seats and dining

• Overnight accommodations in Manhattan, just off Times Square, an evening of Broadway theater, a visit to Radio City Music Hall and a brief sightseeing tour of The Big Apple

• Roundtrip air to/from New York City• 14 meals: 3 continental breakfasts, 2 full

breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners• Door-to-door airport service• 4000/4600 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS5. Depart from The Hamptons today and travel the length of Long Island to Belmont Park. Since 1905, it has been one of the premier racing ovals in the country. Your visit today includes lunch, reserved seating and the opportunity to see and bet on the horses. A fun day for all! Hilton Garden Inn Westburg (CB,L)

6. Start spreading the news… We are headed for New York City. Depart after breakfast and enjoy a variety of sights on your way into the city, including Harlem, The Met, Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. We’ve included lunch and plan to arrive at our hotel by 4pm, to allow you a bit of a breather. Tonight, you have tickets to a Broadway show. Walk through Times Square and remind yourself you are at “the center of the universe.” Enjoy your evening on the Great White Way. Marriott Marquis Times Square (FB,L)

7. Time to head for home. Departure schedule permitting, we have a tour of Radio City Music Hall this morning before heading to the airport.

$3985 p.p./dbl.occ., $4555 singlewww.hamptons.com

www.sagharborinn.comwww.claudios.com

1

Sag Harbor

Montauk

East Hampton

Gold Coast

Melville

Westbury

Belmont ParkMidtownManhattan

2-4

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MANHATTANISLAND

LONG ISLAND

LaGuardiaAirport

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• Explore mountains, geysers, fjords, waterfalls and glaciers

• Bathe in the Blue Lagoon, the well-known geothermal pool

• Discover the Westman Islands by boat• Visit historic sites, tiny villages and meet the

real people of Iceland• Roundtrip air to/from Reykjavik • Door-to-door airport service• 17 meals: 10 full breakfasts, 1 lunch,


HIGHLIGHTS

1. Depart Sacramento and connect through Seattle on an overnight flight to Iceland.

2. After a welcome breakfast visit the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most popular attractions: a natural geothermal pool in the middle of a large, dramatic lava field. Pause for a refreshing bath or swim before continuing to Reykjavík. Hotel Reykjavík Centrum – 2 nights (FB,D)

3. Travel to the Westman Islands by plane. Upon arrival, a boat cruise highlights colorful ocean caves and thousands of seabirds. Then explore the island by bus and see half-buried houses from the island’s infamous 1973 volcanic eruption. See a fascinating landscape teeming with diverse birdlife and animal life, including one of the island’s largest puffin colonies. (FB)

4. Visit famous Thingvellir National Park, stopping at two spectacular waterfalls: Barnafoss and Hraunfossar. Icelandair Hotel Hamar (FB,D)

5. A morning stop at Grábrók, a volcanic crater, allows you the option for an easy and enjoyable hike. Afterwards head towards the north of Iceland and to Akureyri, the second largest city of the island. Hotel KEA – 2 nights (FB)

6. A day of sightseeing on the way to Lake Mývatn. See the beautiful waterfall Godafoss, pseudo craters, walk in the Dimmuborgir Lava Field, and visit the majestic Dettifoss Waterfall, which drops 150 feet. (FB)

7. Leaving beautiful north Iceland travel through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surroundings to Egilsstadir, the biggest town in the east of Iceland. With some luck you might spot an Arctic Fox or see reindeer. Continuing from Egilsstadir along the East Fjords, admire the dramatic

Iceland, Land of Fire and Ice Discover natural scenic beauty

11 Days • July 11-21

fjord landscapes and their tiny fishing villages. Overnight in the small fishing village of Djúpivogur. Hotel Framtíd (FB,D)

8. Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon at the mouth of the Vatnajökull Glacier. Icebergs the size of football fields break off from the glacier and spill into the lagoon. Join a boat tour and sail between the floating icebergs. Stop next at Skaftafell National Park and enjoy a short hike to Svartifoss Waterfall. Hotel Skaftafell (FB,D)

9. Travel along the southern end of Vatnajökull Glacier and spend time at Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains and Europe’s largest glacier. Your first stop is Fjadrárgljúfur Canyon and the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Next stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara. Icelandair Hotel Vík. (FB,D)

www.bluelagoon.comwww.visitwestmanislands.com

www.keahotels.is/is/hotelin/hotel-keaicelagoon.is

10. Skógafoss Waterfall is just under 200 feet high and is one of the most impressive in the country. At the Eyjafjallajökull Information Center learn about living next to both a glacier and an active volcano! Visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall before exploring the route of the Golden Circle. See the Geysir Geothermal Fields hot springs and bubbling pools and Gullfoss, a double waterfall. Hotel Selfoss. (FB,D)

11. Return to Reykjavík for some last minute souvenirs as well as time to enjoy lunch before heading to Keflavík Airport and your return flight home. (FB,L)

$6345 p.p./dbl.occ., $7190 singleThis vacation requires a valid passport!

AkureyriDettifoss

Egilsstadir

Skaftafell

ICELANDBorgarnes Hraunfossar

GullfossGeysir

BlueLagoon

Keflavik

Selfoss

Thingvellir

1 First Night In Flight

4

7

9

Reykjavík

Godafoss

VatnajökullGlacier

Vík

Jökulsárlón

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Djúpivogur

Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)

2-3

8

LakeMývatn

2016 Dream Book 29

• Only 332 guests, a crew to guest ratio of 1 to 1.5

• All oceanview accommodations• All onboard gratuities included• All onboard ship meals with complimentary

beverages including fine wines and premium spirits, soft drinks, bottled water, coffee, and tea served throughout the ship

• Onboard lecture program• Two elegant restaurants and one pool-side

grill, all with open-seating dining• Roundtrip air to Papeete from Sacramento or

San Francisco (TBA)• Door-to-door airport service• Sports Leisure Tour Director• Gold Passport Points based on cabin

category

HIGHLIGHTSThe ms Paul Gauguin was designed specifically to sail the shallow seas of Tahiti, Fiji, and the South Pacific, visiting small ports that larger ships can't reach and effortlessly blending into the stunning natural beauty of the South Seas. She offers an extension of the informal, relaxing environment of the islands, coupled with five-star service, comfort, and luxury. Spacious suites and staterooms, an onboard water sports marina, a choice of three open-seating dining venues, and an extensive spa are among her luxurious attributes. The atmosphere aboard the recently renovated ship radiates warmth, informality, and Polynesian flair. And the beloved troupe of Gauguines – local Tahitians who serve as cruise staff, entertainers, and storytellers – add the unique personality of Tahiti to every sailing. Many optional shore excursions are available. Details will be provided prior to departure.

Board the ship in Papeete, Tahiti in the Society Islands. The volcanic islands and atolls of Polynesia are a gorgeous collection strewn lazily across the Pacific Ocean. The island of Tahiti proper is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. Your first port of call is Huahine, known as “The Garden Island” for its lush rainforests and dramatic terrain. Pulitzer Prize-winning author James Michener called Bora Bora “the most beautiful island in the world.” Dominated by towering Mount Otemanu and surrounded by a lagoon protected by low-lying coral reefs, this is indeed a spectacular destination. You'll have two full days to discover this quintessential Pacific paradise. Rangiroa is the largest atoll of the

Tuamotu Archipelago. Next visit Fakarava, whose diverse ecosystem has earned it the designation of a UNESCO-Classified Nature Reserve. Spend your day at sea enjoying the ship’s Polynesian ambiance. Mahana, an islet adjacent to Taha'a, is a South Seas paradise, featuring white-sand beaches with swaying palms and crystal-clear waters. Covered in an abundance of fresh fruits and flowers, spectacular mountain peaks, and palm-fringed beaches, Moorea features a magnificent beauty that is unsurpassed. Spend two days in Moorea before returning to Tahiti's capital, where you'll enjoy a final overnight. Disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Cabins start from $6495 p.p./dbl.occ, $8395 single

This vacation requires a valid passport!

Cruise Tahiti & the South PacificFeaturing award-winning luxury small ship cruising with 332 passengers aboard the Paul Gauguin

11 Days • August 10-20

www.pgcruises.com

SOCIETY ISLANDS & TUAMOTUS CRUISE ITINERARYDAY DATE PORT ARRIVE DEPART

1 10 August 2016 Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands Midnight

2 11 August 2016 Huahine, Society Islands 08:00AM 05:00PM

3 12 August 2016 Bora Bora, Society Islands 08:00AM Overnight

4 13 August 2016 Bora Bora, Society Islands 04:00PM

5 14 August 2016 Rangiroa, Tuamotus Noon

6 15 August 2016 Fakarava, Tuamotus 08:00AM 05:30PM

7 16 August 2016 At Sea

8 17 August 2016 Taha'a (Motu Mahana), Society Islands 09:00AM 05:00PM

9 18 August 2016 Moorea, Society Islands 08:00AM Overnight

10 19 August 2016Moorea, Society IslandsPapeete, Tahiti, Society Islands 07:30AM

05:00PMOvernight

11 20 August 2016 Papeete, Tahiti, Society Islands Disembark, AM


• Stay in the culturally rich cities of Madrid, Granada, Seville, and Lisbon

• In Spain, experience the colorful Festival of Flowers, elegant Andalusian Horses Dance show, traditional bullfighting history, magnificent Alhambra Palace, and flamenco at its finest

• Explore the fascinating city of Lisbon and the lovely villages, coast and castles of Portugal

• Roundtrip air to Madrid/from Lisbon• 19 meals: 12 full breakfasts,, 1 patio lunch, 2

tapas meals/wine tastings, 4 special dinners• Door-to-door airport service• Services of a Sports Leisure Tour Director• 7000/8050 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS1. Fly to Madrid on an overnight flight.

2. After checking into your hotel in the heart of Madrid, have a rest before exploring nearby Retiro Park, Madrid’s grand and lovely central park. In the evening, meet your Spanish hosts for a tapas dinner walk, a centuries old tradition. Hotel Paseo del Prado – 3 nights (D)

3. Enjoy a guided tour of historical Madrid and the Prado Museum with a leisurely lunch on Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s splendid central square. (FB)

4. It’s a full day excursion to Toledo, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Visit the elaborate cathedral, the ancient synagogue, and the works of El Greco. Explore this World Heritage Site on your own. (FB)

5. Experience a ride on Spain’s high speed train to Córdoba where the Festival of Flowers awaits you. Visit the magnificent Mosque and other historical sites. Meet your private driver for the scenic ride to Granada and your luxury hotel. Hotel Alhambra Palace – 2 nights (FB)

6. Tour the magnificent Alhambra Palace, preserved by Isabelle and Ferdinand on their conquest of the Moors. Explore the peaceful and lovely gardens of the palace with views of Granada. Enjoy a lovely patio lunch before returning to the hotel to rest or explore the historical city of Granada with your Tour Director. (FB,L)

7. En route to Seville, visit the cliff-top town of Rhonda, famous for the birthplace of modern bullfighting. Take a guided tour of the scenic old city and then enjoy a leisurely lunch before continuing on to Seville. Hotel Sevilla Plaza de Armas – 3 nights (FB)

8. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the historical sites of Seville Spain’s most elegant city. Visit the grand Cathedral, the Moorish Alcazar, and the ancient Jewish neighborhood. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore on your own and perhaps a carriage ride through the city. In the evening, experience passionate flamenco music and dance at its finest. (FB,D)

9. Take a daytrip to Jerez for the unique and elegant Horse Show at the Royal Equestrian School. The show is followed by a visit to a local winery for tasting and tapas. Spend

the evening in splendid Spain relaxing and dining at

your leisure. (FB,TP)

10. A relaxing drive through the countryside of

Spain and Portugal takes you to a seaside town in Portugal for

a leisurely lunch before arriving in Lisbon, Portugal’s magnificent capital

city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Fado musical performance and dinner. Hotel Porto Bay Liberdade – 4 nights (FB,D)

11. Awake in time for breakfast at the luxurious hotel. Then with your local guide,

Spain & Portugal: Flowers & Flamenco, Coastline & CastlesExplore the historic cities of Madrid, Granada, Seville and Lisbon

14 Days • May 4-17

tour the highlights of this historic city. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure. (FB)

12. Visit two towns a short distance from Lisbon: Sintra, a magnificent town of marvelous historic mansions set against the backdrop of lush hills, and Cascais, once a small fishing village and still home to gorgeous beaches. (FB)

13. Spend the day in the countryside visiting a traditional winery. Enjoy tasting and tapas before continuing on to the ancient walled city of Obidos. Have a leisurely lunch in this beautiful village before visiting a 12th-century monastery. In the evening, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. (FB,TP,D)

14. Depart Lisbon for your return flight. (FB)

$6975 p.p./dbl.occ, $8015 singleThis vacation requires a valid passport!

www.h-alhambrapalace.es/enwww.portobay.com/en/hotels/portugal/

lisbon-portugal/porto-bay-liberdade

Madrid

Córdoba

Granada

Rhonda

Seville

Jerez

Lisbon

Faro

Toledo

SPAIN

PORTUGAL

5-67-9

2-4

10-13


2016 Dream Book 31

• Stay 8 nights at the 5-star Le Meridian Hotel in Valletta

• Spend 2 nights on the island of Gozo at the Cornucopia Hotel

• Travel by private boat to Comino, the smallest of the Maltese Islands, with a picnic lunch

• Discover the “Three Cities:” Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua

• Follow in the footsteps of St. Paul in Rabat and the “Silent City” of Mdina

• Observe craftsmen at work at Ta’Qali Craft Village, participate in Notte Bianca – the fantastic arts festival (opt. cost)

• Enjoy a Maltese festa in the small town of Gudja for the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary

• Roundtrip air to/from Malta• Door-to-door airport service• 22 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 high tea,

6 lunches, 5 dinners• Local guides and a Sports Leisure Tour

Director• Gold Passport Points based on airfare TBD

HIGHLIGHTS

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Magical MaltaDiscover island jewels in the Mediterranean Sea

12 Days • September 22 – October 3

of only four residents. Travel by private boat for a daytrip to enjoy the small island, its beach and the boat while docked. The long and narrow bay surrounded by rock and a bit of sand is almost like a pool, which makes it the ideal place for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving or simply relaxing.

Food is a major component of this tour: visit an old bakery converted into a traditional foods restaurant where you prepare your own meal. Enjoy High Tea at Palazzo Parisio and Gardens in Naxxar. Partake in a traditional Gozitan platter lunch featuring the most popular cheese on all of Malta, Gbejna. Travel to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk to observe the fish market but not before having an interesting encounter while overlooking the fishing boats.

Stepping back in time, over 5,000 years, visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Hypogeum and the Tarxien Temples. In Mosta, discover the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady and its magnificent rotunda. On Gozo, discover The Cidadel or Citadella, an area known to have been first fortified during the Bronze Age. The Gantija site consists of two temples dating back to between 3600 and 3200 B.C. – 1,000 years older than the pyramids and Stonehenge.

$4610 p.p./dbl.occ., $5150 singlePlus airfare to be determined.


AzureWindow

Xaghra

Mgarr

Mellieha

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St. Paul’sBay

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Mosta

Rabat Mdina

Valletta&


COMINO

MALTA

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2-6 9-11

Let us take you on a journey to the land that has been sought after, conquered, and celebrated as the jewel of the Mediterranean for over 5,000 years. Malta, and its sister islands Gozo and Comino,

have an illustrious history stretching back to the temple builders, Phoenicians, Arabs, Knights of Malta, French and finally British rule leading to its modern day independence. Adding to its significant history marked by palaces, fortifications, and cathedrals, are a plethora of quaint villages, beaches, countryside walks and a culture that is sure to warm you. This experience is limited to only 17 passengers.

Because of the age and antiquity of these islands, it is recommended all travelers be in good physical condition to participate in this tour. Because many attractions in the capital city of Valletta

are close together and centrally located, touring on several days is on foot. Moderate walking for periods of time is required.

While on the island of Malta, the 5-starLe Meridien Hotel will be your home for 8 nights. Learn about the landmark city the Knights of Malta built. Enter the majestic gates of Valletta as you learn about its history and the Auberges of the Knights. Visit the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist,” his only signed work.

Travel by ferry and spend two nights on the island of Gozo. The island affords a certain charm and tranquility that sets it apart from the main island. Your host hotel is the rustic feeling Cornucopia Hotel. When you look out from the hotel, you will see a land that is very different from the Island of Malta. You will wonder if you are in Tuscany or perhaps Rio – the views are spectacular. While on the island visit a local farm to learn about dairy production, including a hands-on opportunity in the collection of goat milk.

The island of Comino is noted for its tranquility and isolation. It has a

permanent population

www.visitmalta.comwww.lemeridienmalta.comwww.cornucopiahotel.com


• Oklahoma City: the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, American Banjo Museum, nighttime visit to the moving Oklahoma City National Memorial

• Ft. Worth: Visit the Stockyards during a cattle drive, visit both hat-making and boot-making establishments, and take in a performance at the Texas Star Dinner Theater

• Austin: Visit the Texas State Capitol with city tour, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, evening river cruise to observe the world’s largest urban bat colony, optional visit to Lyndon Johnson Presidential Library

• Ride the rails aboard Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer and Texas Eagle

• 2 nights, Oklahoma City, Ft. Worth and Austin• Roundtrip air to Oklahoma City, from Austin• 15 meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 full breakfasts,

1 brunch, 3 lunches, 5 dinners• Door-to-door airport service• 2800/3200 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Fly on a late-morning flight to Oklahoma City. Dinner is served on arrival at Zio’s Italian Restaurant in Bricktown, the city’s entertainment and shopping district. Hilton Garden Inn Bricktown – 2 nights (D)

2. Explore Oklahoma City today on a guided tour. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is an amazing place: priceless works of art including paintings, sculptures, and graphic art. Galleries focus on the American Cowboy, sculpture, Native American art, and western performers. Lunch is included today along with a free afternoon to explore Bricktown on your own. Tonight, enjoy dinner at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, serving up western hospitality for over 100 years. Visit the poignant and moving Oklahoma City National Memorial as an optional activity this evening. (FB,L,D)

Oklahoma City

Grapevine

Ft. Worth

Austin

TX

OK1-2

5-6

3-4

www.nationalcowboymuseum.orgwww.amtrak.com/heartland-flyer-train

www.fortworthstockyards.org

Riding the Rails of the Old WestOklahoma City, Ft. Worth and Austin by Train

7 Days • March 30 – April 5

3. Depart Oklahoma City at 8:30am this morning for Ft. Worth on Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer. Superliner cars provide views of Big Canyon and the Arbuckle Mountains before crossing the Red River into Texas. Arrive in Ft. Worth and visit its famous stockyards for lunch. Hosting museums, shops and historical points of interest, the stockyards can’t be missed. See a little bit before checking into your hotel. Country Inn & Suites – 2 nights (FB,L)

4. Go a little more in-depth on a morning tour of Ft. Worth. Return to the stockyards for and learn how hats and cowboy boots are still made in the traditional way. Enjoy lunch at your leisure and some down time at your hotel before returning for the daily “cattle drive.” Dinner tonight is a real treat, hosted by the Texas Star Dinner Theater in Grapevine, home of America’s only glockenspiel clock. (B,D)

5. It’s Sunday and you have a train to catch but there is time for a nice Sunday Brunch to start the day! Amtrak’s Texas Eagle, bound for Austin, departs Ft. Worth at 2pm. Cross the Brazos River in central Texas headed toward the Hill Country. Pass pecan orchards along the Little River and maybe see a heard of buffalo nearby. Arrive in Austin in time for a late, casual dinner. Drury Inn – 2 nights (BR,B,D)

6. Austin is unlike any city you have ever visited in Texas. Did you know it was originally called Waterloo? Home to the state capitol, you’ll discover other interesting bits of information during a morning tour. In the afternoon, explore a little on your own or choose and option to visit the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library & Museum. Our 36th

President, Johnson’s domestic policy legacy is often at odds with the war in Vietnam. Tonight, enjoy dinner before a evening cruise to the Congress Avenue Bridge to view the world’s largest urban colony of bats. Learn the importance of these unique creatures in our ecosystem. (B,D)

7. Lady Bird Johnson was a lover of wildflowers. It’s spring in the Texas Hill Country so why not stop at the wildflower center named in her honor? After lunch, your mid-afternoon flight returns you home. (B,L)


2016 Dream Book 33

• Fly to Great Falls, return flight from Bozeman/Butte

• In Great Falls: Spend a morning at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, one of the best on the entire route; explore the C.M. (Charles) Russell Museum, enjoy a guided tour of town, meet members of the Lewis & Clark Honor Guard

• In/near Helena: Go out on the Missouri River on the Gates of the Mountains Cruise, visit the state capitol and the Cathedral of St. Helena, dine in the Montana Club

• In Three Forks: Walk the grounds at Missouri Headwaters State Park, where Lewis & Clark walked in 1805; dine in a wonderful small town restaurant and stay in the historic Sacajawea Hotel

• 9 meals: 3 full breakfasts, 1 continental breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

• Door-to-door airport service• 2350/2650 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTSOne of Montana’s nicknames is “Land of the Big Sky.” You can’t possibly understand what that means until you go there…

Come with us to this magnificent state, where the scenery will take your breath away; and the stories, well the stories of what has happened here will simply amaze you. Because it is an amazing part of our great country. You should be Montana Bound next summer!

1. Depart mid-morning, arriving in Great Falls about 4pm. We have arranged for an interpretive speaker at dinner tonight, to help acquaint you with the area’s history and attractions, so you can hit the ground running in the morning. Hilton Garden Inn – 2 nights (D)

2. The Lewis & Clark Center in Great Falls is one of the best on the route. Getting around the falls proved to be one of the biggest challenges of the journey and the story is fascinating. Later, browse the museum and grounds at Charlie Russell’s old place.

Charlie (as everyone in town called him) was a sculptor, fascinated by the life of a cowboy. His work reflects that fascination. Take time to enjoy this world-class museum. Dinner tonight features more special guests, this time the Lewis & Clark Honor Guard will help bring the trail to life, over 200 years after the original journey. (FB)

3. Between Great Falls and Helena, as the hills start to turn in to mountains, is some mighty rugged terrain. The area is prone to wildfires and one such fire brought tragedy to the Smokejumpers. Hear the story and ride on the Missouri River on the Gates of the Mountains cruise.

Helena has been the state capital since 1889 (and the territorial capital before that). Originally dubbed “Last Chance Gulch” by the miners who first found gold on what became Main Street, it’s a sparkling little city with a quaint downtown and a historical capitol building. You’ll have a short tour and also visit the Cathedral of St. Helena, completed in 1914 and modeled after a Gothic structure in Vienna, Austria. At both stops, interpretive guides will share the story. Tonight, dine in the historic Montana Club, a privilege not often afforded to out of town guests. Holiday Inn Conference Center (FB,BL,D)

4. The Tizer Botanic Garden & Arboretum in Jefferson City is a test site for high altitude, cold weather-drought resistant plants. Visitors can view the plants along a walking trail. At Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, learn how Native Americans, as much as 2,000 years ago, hunted buffalo here in a most interesting way. Stand at the headwaters of the Missouri River and see a recreated early 1900s town in the heritage museum. Tonight, stay in a historic

Montana Bound, To The Land of The Big SkyTrace the trail of Lewis and Clark, a relaxing, history-based adventure


www.sacajaweahotel.com/historywww.gatesofthemountains.com

www.genuinemontana.com

hotel and dine in a renowned restaurant, named for Sacajawea and her son, Pompei. Sacajawea Hotel – Three Forks (FB,D)

5. Just up the road in Bozeman is the Museum of the Rockies, one of the finest in the state. There’s time to explore before lunch and the departure of your mid-afternoon flight, connecting in Portland and arriving home about 7pm. (CB,L)


Great Falls

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Helena

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• Unique itinerary which eliminates long, non-scenic coach rides – fly to Portland, return flight from Coos Bay via SFO, spend all your time on the coast

• Reserved seating for the 38th Annual Oregon Coast Music Festival’s Pops Concert “A Festival of Film Favorites” with the music from South Pacific, Casablanca, Finian’s Rainbow and The Bridge on the River Kwai in Coos Bay

• 2 nights in Long Beach at the recently renovated Best Western on Main Street

• 2 nights at Mark’s favorite home away from home, the Elizabeth Street Inn, in Newport; located on the bluffs with every room overlooking the Pacific Ocean

• Bayview rooms in Coos Bay at The Mill• Discover the sealife found along the coast

with a morning cruise on the Discovery; and an afternoon visit to the Oregon Aquarium

• Visit Fort Clatsop, home to Lewis & Clark at the end of their journey to the coast in the early 1800’s

• Foodie fun and shopping at the Vancouver, WA farmer’s market, at the Tillamook Factory Outlet, even a traditional clam bake

• Long sandy beaches, fresh crab, spectacular views of the Oregon coastline

• Roundtrip air to Portland/from Coos Bay• 12 meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 full breakfast,

2 lunches, 5 dinners• Door-to-door airport service• 2300/2650 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS1. An early morning flight will have you in Portland in time to pick up some fresh berries and other treats at the Vancouver Farmer’s Market. Pick up something for lunch and for snacking along the way as you travel along the Columbia River to the Pacific Coast. You have two nights in Long Beach, home to over 11 miles of pristine beaches. Your hotel is located on Main Street just a couple of blocks from the beach in this often overlooked coastal destination. Best Western Long Beach, WA – 2 nights (D)

2. It is a day of local lore and history as you spend time on the Long Beach peninsula. It’s a day of cranberries, oysters and kites! Long Beach has something for everyone with a busy two-block downtown area. Lunch is a cranberry-themed meal at the Cranberry Research Foundation, and dinner is a taste of the sea. (B,L,D)

3. Journey south to Fort Clatsop, a woodsy inlet with a reproduction of Lewis and Clark’s infamous winter residence back in 1805. A terrific American history lesson. Continue down to Seaside for lunch at a local pub; then ride the carousel or spend some time browsing the little shops. Ice cream is always a bit hit in Seaside. Afternoon stops provide more “foodie fun” with time at the Blue Heron or maybe the Tillamook Smokeshop for some jerky. Your hotel, located on the bluffs in Newport will greet you with a soup and chowder buffet for a light dinner. Elizabeth Street Inn – 2 nights (B,L,D)

4. No trip to the coast is complete without a visit to a lighthouse, and Yaquina Head, north of Newport, is the perfect stop! Later, experience the life of the sea with a 2-hour cruise on the Discovery and a visit to the Oregon Aquarium. It is a full day balanced with activities and leisure time so that you can enjoy the beautiful town of Newport and your lovely room at the inn. (B,D)

5. A leisurely drive along the spectacular Oregon Coast makes this a most relaxing day. Dean Creek, just east of Reedsport, is the year-around home to a herd of 100 Roosevelt Elk. We’ll go early in the day, in hopes of viewing them. A naturalist joins us to talk about the “local residents.” Back in Reedsport, at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitors Center, there is an opportunity to learn more about the geography of the coast. As you arrive in Coos Bay in mid-afternoon, the musicians will be tuning their instruments for tonight’s concert; and the clam bake will be underway. Enjoy the fruits of the sea; then the sounds of the Oregon Music Festival orchestra performing familiar songs from your favorite shows. The Mill Casino Hotel. (B,D)

6. Visit the new Historical and Maritime Museum in Coos Bay. Opening in August

2015, this new gathering place is both fun and thought-provoking. A mid-day flight from Coos Bay returns to Sacramento about 4:30pm, by way of San Francisco, saving you a day-and-a-half of surface travel. (FB)


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Sights & Sounds of Hwy 101From Long Beach, WA to Coos Bay, OR featuring

the Oregon Coast Music Festival


www.oregoncoastmusic.orgwww.elizabethstreetinn.comwww.marinediscovery.com

2016 Dream Book 35

A brand new way of seeing one of the Pacific Northwest’s most exciting cities. An exclusive tour that goes into the neighborhoods and is limited to just 22 travelers, so to insure a unique EXPERIENCE.

For the last couple of years now, a rumor has persisted in our city and it comes from city hall. “We want to transform Sacramento into a modern, progressive city…like Portland.” Quite the compliment to our neighbors to the north. Sacramento isn’t the first city to want to duplicate some of what you find in Portland.

The city’s unofficial motto is “Keep Portland Weird,” and the locals adhere to that, in ways big and small everyday. But perhaps a better motto might be “Keep Portland Different and Interesting.” Because that best describes Portland; different in cutting-edge ways, and a fascinating place to visit.

Last year, our Tiny Houses Tour got to see The Rose City in a different way, because there were only nine of us, traveling in a Sprinter van around town. It was very eye-opening. There are lots of places in Portland you simply cannot visit in a big motorcoach; wonderful neighborhoods that are an important part of the city. We decided then we would “do Portland differently.”

Currently in development is this new Portland itinerary for early next summer, a three-day visit which will include things like dinner with a view (from the 30th floor) at the Portland City Grill, or lunch and a scavenger hunt in the city’s renowned art museum. We’ll even slip across the river just before leaving to visit Mark’s favorite Farmer’s Market in Vancouver, so you can bring home amazing (edible) treasures of the Pacific Northwest with you!

Did you know you can ride an aerial tramway in the middle of the city? Or that Portland has a new streetcar system? Want to go for a ride? How about stopping in at a legendary local donut store? Would you like to tour the Tiny House Hotel? (Pictured above, left).Perhaps have lunch in a pod of international food trucks? How about a short walking/tasting tour? These are the things the REAL Portland is about. It’s an exciting, progressive, vibrant city and we can’t wait to show it to you in ways you’ve never seen before.

Progressive Portland, A Look at America’s Most Interesting CityFrom neighborhood food trucks to a hotel of tiny houses, The City of Roses is an eclectic place


The package will include all the Sports Leisure extras you love, door-to-door airport service, dinner each night and breakfast each morning, plus a host of unqiue sightseeing. Some of your touring will be by streetcar and Sprinter van, which is why this exclusive tour is limited to just 22 people.

The itinerary will be announced in November. If you are interested in being a part of this upscale, exclusive tour, call today and place your name on the Priority Notification List. That insures you will be notified as soon as the itinerary is released and have a chance to register ahead of the rest of the Travel Club. We expect the 3-day tour with air to be $1100-$1200 p.p./dbl., $1300-$1350 single (estimated prices).

www.foodcartsportland.comwww.portlandcitygrill.comwww.portlandstreetcar.org


• Scenic tour of Acadia National Park• Experience a traditional Maine Lobster Bake• July 4th Fireworks over the Charles River• Go in search of witches in Salem• Tour Boston, MIT and Harvard Yard• Visit the JFK Presidential Library• 12 meals: 2 breakfasts, 4 full breakfasts,

1 lunch, 5 dinners• Roundtrip air to Portland, ME/from Boston• Door-to-door airport service• 3350/3700 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTSCelebrate America’s Independence Day where it all began! Hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence, visit Minute Man National Park, and dabble in witchcraft in Salem, MA. Spectacular coastal views, lumberjacks, lobsters, Minutemen, witches, the JFK Museum, 4th of July fireworks in Boston; it’s all here!

1. Arrive in Boston in the early evening. Enjoy dinner at the Union Oyster House, the oldest continually operated restaurant in the country. Check into your hotel, conveniently located just outside the city in Woburn, allowing easy access to neighboring attractions. Hilton Hotel – 3 nights (D)

2. The story of America’s independence comes alive in Lexington at Minuteman National Park. Stand on the North Bridge in Concord, where colonists first fired on the British Army. Lunch is at the historic Colonial Inn, frequented by famous authors such as Thoreau, Emerson, Hawthorne and Louisa May Alcott. Next travel to Salem, site of the 1692 Witch Trials, where fear and fanaticism combined to create an environment of suspicion and mass hysteria. Visit famous landmarks in the area with shopping time to gather all your magical potions! (FB,L)

3. Happy 4th of July! Feel the power in the words of the Declaration of Independence as it’s read from the balcony of the Old State House. Tour “Bean Town,” MIT and Harvard Yard ending at Fanueil Hall and Quincy Marketplace. Browse dozens of food vendors for lunch. Standing as a tribute, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum will make your heart swell with patriotism. Tonight, fireworks light up the sky over Boston Harbor, to the music of the Boston Pops, at a traditional American cookout! (FB,D)

Boston to Bar Harbor Celebrate the 4th of July in Boston and relax oceanside in Bar Harbor

7 Days • July 2-8

4. Travel north along Maine’s pristine coast to Kennebunkport for a guided tour. Choose from one of the many restaurants at Dock Square for lunch before passing by the Bush Family Compound at Walker’s Point. An Italian dinner is served at the hotel prepared by a classically trained chef. After dinner, you’re already home to relax and fall asleep to the sound of the waterfalls just outside your window! Hilton Garden Inn – Auburn Riverwatch (FB,D)

5. On your way to Bar Harbor, pass through Augusta for a picture stop at the state capitol. In scenic Camden you’ll have free time to browse waterfront cafés and shops and take in sweeping views of Penobscot Bay atop Mt. Battie in Camden State Park. On arrival into Bar Harbor, learn all things “lobster” on a guided tour at the Lobster Hatchery. After a traditional Maine Lobster Bake for dinner, relax on the balcony of your oceanview room. Atlantic Oceanside Hotel – 2 nights (FB,D)

6. Have your cameras ready for Acadia National Park to capture its stone bridges, lakes, ponds and stunning coastline from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. A playground of the elite, hear stories of famous residents and visitors. In town, shop and grab a bite to eat before a sightseeing cruise on Frenchman’s Bay as the captain explains the local industry. After dinner, attend “The Olympics of the Forest,” a lumberjack logging show full of brawn and laughter. (B,D)

7. Following the coast, travel south to Freeport, home of L.L. Bean. Made famous by its all-weather boots and stylish outerwear, you’ll find the perfect gift for that outdoorsy person in your life…or yourself! Enjoy free time for lunch and shop the many

local boutiques before heading to Portland International Airport for your return flight home. (B)


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www.nps.gov/acad/index.htmwww.jfklibrary.org/

2016 Dream Book 37

• 2 nights at The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park• Celestial Seasonings Tea factory tour• Narrated tour of Rocky Mountain National

Park• Visit a Medical Marijuana Grow Facility• Lunch at the historic Brown Palace Hotel in

downtown Denver • Roundtrip air to/from Denver• 7 meals: 3 full breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner• Door-to-door airport service• 1900/2150 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

A short flight but a world away, Colorado has it all: majestic mountains, eclectic culture, and a touch of the “Wild, Wild West.” Go back with Chris to his old college stomping grounds and let him show you the all beauty and quirkiness of Colorado.

1. Arrive in Denver and make your way to Boulder. Tour the Celestial Seasonings Tea factory, a nationally recognized and well-respected company, which began with hippies picking herbs in the woods. Every box you see on the grocery store shelves comes from this one factory! The mint room will definitely wake you up and the art on the packaging is one of a kind. Taste a full range of products in the gift shop. Lunch is in Boulder, where Chris’ alma mater, the University of Colorado is located. There’s probably a few stories he has to share with you! Check into Estes Park’s premier address, The Stanley Hotel. A roundtrip dinner shuttle will be provided down the hill to enjoy dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants in town. The Stanley Hotel – 2 nights (L)

Rocky Mountain High in ColoradoThe natural beauty and new industry of the wild, wild west


2. Wake up surrounded by the Rocky Mountains! Their beauty gives Tahoe a run for its money. Visit the Estes Park Rocky Mountain Gateway Visitors Center; it has an excellent gift shop for all your souvenir needs. Take the afternoon to explore the small downtown area with lots of shops and eateries. Before dinner, take a docent-guided tour of the hotel, (in) famous for being the filming location for Steven Spielberg’s The Shinning, starring Jack Nicholson. Dinner is at the Cascades Restaurant located at the hotel. (FB,D)

3. Make the loop through Rocky Mountain National Park, pausing at several picture stops along the way to capture the stunning views. Stop for lunch before continuing on to Central City, a charming “Wild West “gambling town, where you’ll stay the night. If Lady Luck isn’t kind to you there, a shuttle is provided to take you to neighboring Blackhawk, only one mile down the road. Dinner is on your own. The Reserve Casino Hotel (FB,L)

4. Head for the Mile High City! Did you pick up on the double entendre? Colorado is one of two states to legalize recreational marijuana. Contrary to what some predicted, the sky has not fallen. Take a city tour to see the sights while also learning about this new industry and the repercussions of legalization, both positive and negative. Take an educational tour of a commercial grow facility. Relax, this is nothing

www.nps.gov/ROMO/planyourvisit/index.htmwww.stanleyhotel.com

more than a botany class. Maybe you’ll pick up a tip or two to take back to your garden club! Enjoy lunch at the historic Brown Palace in downtown Denver before heading to the airport for your quick flight home. (FB,L)


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• Experience Niagara Falls from above, below and behind!

• Lunch at Skylon Tower; look down on the falls• Visit quaint Niagara-on-the-Lake• Discover the Susan B. Anthony Home• Cruise to Boldt Castle, in the Thousand

Islands• Explore the best of Ottawa at tulip time,

including Parliament, the PM’s residence, Embassy Row, and the RCMP stables

• Roundtrip air to Buffalo/from Ottawa• 10 meals: 4 full breakfasts, 4 lunches,


HIGHLIGHTS

1. Arrive in Buffalo in the late afternoon and cross the border into Canada. Your hotel for the next three nights offers a full daily breakfast buffet, a nightly manager’s reception, and features fallsview rooms. Embassy Suites Niagara Falls – 3 nights

2. Journey behind Niagara Falls on a special tour. You’ll feel the power of the falls as they wash over a height of 165 feet. Next, experience lunch from above the falls at Skylon Tower. The revolving restaurant is 775 feet above the top height of the falls. Round-out you falls experience with a cruise near the base of the falls, the world’s most powerful by water flow – around 85,000 cubic feet of water per second! (FB,L)

3. Discover Niagara-on-the-Lake this morning, located where the Niagara River empties into Lake Ontario. Browse the quaint shops and enjoy lunch at your leisure with an optional visit to Fort George to learn about the life of a Canadian soldier during the War of 1812. Back in Niagara Falls, enjoy a free afternoon before a night of food

and entertainment at the popular dinner show, Oh Canada, eh? (FB,D)

4. Return to the U.S. side of the border en route to the Thousand Islands, pausing at the Susan B. Anthony Museum and House in Rochester for lunch and a tour. Your accommodations tonight are located in Alexandria Bay, along the St. Lawrence River, in the beautiful Thousand Islands. Riveredge Resort (FB,L,D)

5. Located in the middle of the Thousand Islands, Boldt Castle was to be a summer dream home for George Boldt and his wife Louise. Discover the rest of the story during a visit. In the afternoon, explore the stables of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police before checking into your excellent hotel in Ottawa. Lord Elgin Hotel – 2 nights (FB,L)

6. Explore Canada’s capital city at its spring best: covered in tulips. See Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Home, Embassy Row and enjoy lunch along the way. In the afternoon, you have the option of visiting the Canadian Museum of History or the War Museum.

7. Just across the St. Lawrence River is the province of Québec. Explore the region along the river before lunch and your return flight home from Ottawa in the late afternoon. (L)

$3490 p.p./dbl.occ., $4030 singleThis vacation requires a valid

passport!

Tulips of Ottawa & Niagara FallsRoaring Niagara and Tulips in Ottawa, both at their springtime best

7 Days • May 9-15

www.visitniagaracanada.comwww.riveredge.com

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2016 Dream Book 39

• Visit Chihuly Garden & Glass and ascend the Space Needle

• Enjoy High Tea at the Empress Hotel• Explore famed Butchart Gardens with lunch

at The Dining Room• Experience a double-decker bus tour of

Victoria and city tour of Vancouver• Watch in awe during the international

pyrotechnics competition over English Bay in Vancouver

• 6 meals: 1 high tea, 4 lunches, 1 dinner• Roundtrip air to/from Seattle• Door-to-door airport service• 2550/2900 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTSLeave the heat of the valley behind for the beauty and cooler temperatures of the Pacific Northwest. Victoria is as close to England as you can get without flying over “The Pond.” Vancouver is an easily managed big city, surrounded by natural beauty, highlighted with an evening of amazing fireworks!

1. A quick morning flight to Seattle allows time to visit world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly’s Glass and Gardens exhibit, nestled at the base of the Space Needle. Ascend 602 feet to its observation deck for sweeping views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. Lunch is at the Collections Café, surrounded by Chihuly’s various personal collections ranging from accordions to tobacco tins. Board the Victoria Clipper for a scenic sail past the San Juan Islands, arriving in Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour in the early evening. Take a stroll with your Tour Director to acquaint yourself with your host city for the next three nights after checking in to your hotel. Chateau Victoria – 3 nights (L)

2. See Victoria from the top down on a double-decker bus tour ending at the majestic Empress Hotel for High Tea. You’ll sip the very same tea blend the Queen of England herself enjoys with assorted finger sandwiches. It’s the place to be seen, and you never know who you’ll meet! The afternoon is yours to enjoy museum visits, shopping or strolling along the waterfront. Your choice! (HT)

3. Take a short walk from your hotel to the iconic Parliament Building for a docent-guided tour to learn about Canada’s governmental structure. Next stop is Butchart Gardens! As it has been for over 100 years, everything will be in bloom. After

Flowers & Fireworks in British ColumbiaFeaturing Victoria, Butchart Gardens and Vancouver’s Festival of Light


lunch in the original family home, take time to stroll amongst the magnificent blooms on your own. You’ve never seen so many colors of dahlias, or so large! Pick up seeds for your own garden at the gift shop. Return to the hotel in the early evening and enjoy the final evening in Victoria at your leisure. (L)

4. Travel north from Victoria pausing in Duncan for lunch at the Quw’utsun Cultural Center for a traditional cedar-plank salmon lunch. To keep traditions alive, the youth learn tribal dances which they perform for you. Care to join in? The ferry departs with motorcoach and all from Nanaimo, bound for Vancouver. Upon arrival, check into your hotel right in the heart of the city. Any and everything Vancouver has to offer is steps from the front door. Blue Horizon Hotel – 2 nights (L)

5. This morning, a narrated bus tour introduces you to the city, including Stanley Park, with its collection of totem poles, and the Lions Gate Bridge. Lunch is on your own at the Granville Island Public Market. Every type food is available and many fantastic shops too! Care to try some candied salmon? Sounds strange, but it’s surprisingly good! A dinner cruise this evening also serves as your viewing platform for the Honda Festival of Light, an international pyrotechnics competition. Each participating country comes to wow the crowd. Music and fireworks synchronize for a fire ballet over English Bay. It’s quite the spectacle! (D)

6. Time to make your way stateside. Cross the U.S.-Canadian Border at Peace Arch Park, stopping to take a picture with one foot in each nation. In Snohomish, lunch is at The Cabbage Patch. Peanut butter tartlets… yum! Fly home from Seattle. (L)

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www.chateauvictoria.comwww.butchartgardens.comwww.bluehorizonhotel.com


• 3 nights at the Knight Inlet remote floating wilderness lodge in a comfortable room with private washroom and shower

• 3 full days of guided wildlife viewing, including watching Grizzly Bears from nearby viewing platforms

• Evening interpretive programs• Marine wildlife viewing excursions as weather

allows• Seaplane to/from Campbell River• Interpretive rainforest walk in the Kwalate

Valley• Roundtrip air to/from Vancouver• 13 meals: 1 continental breakfast, 4 full


HIGHLIGHTSGlendale Cove in Knight Inlet is home to one of the largest concentrations of Grizzly Bears in British Columbia. With ample seafood and other food sources, these grizzlies are magnificent! During the fall salmon run bears are observed from viewing platforms in order to see them filling up on fresh salmon. Bring your cameras and binoculars for spectacular viewing! This is truly an incredible opportunity and a must on your bucket list if you are a nature enthusiast. This is a Sports Leisure Vacations exclusive, as we are the only tour operator with the premier fall viewing season availability!

1. Arrive in Vancouver mid-morning in time to catch the ferry for an afternoon crossing of Georgia Strait. Arrive in Campbell River in the early evening and settle into your room. Campbell River Comfort Inn (D)

2-4. A morning seaplane flight delivers you deep into the Knight Inlet for three full days of immersion into the lives of the wildlife of British Columbia. Naturalists are on hand to answer all your questions, to direct your viewing experiences, and to provide evening interpretive programs. Activities may include (weather permitting) excursions into Johnstone Strait for marine wildlife viewing, Bald Eagle and other birdlife viewing, an interpretive rainforest walk, and, of course, daily excursions by either boat or foot to watch the grizzlies. Daily schedules are arranged with optimum wildlife viewing in mind. Check out Knight Inlet Lodge on Facebook for weekly photos and updates. You will want to be there! Accommodations include modest yet comfortable rooms featuring queen-sized beds with private washrooms and showers.

The dining room features fresh, local ingredients prepared in West Coast cuisine with daily specials, included fine wines, and decadent desserts. (They will try to accommodate most dietary preferences, however, this is a remote lodge with limited storage. Please advise at the time of making your reservations if you have restrictions as this destination may not be able to accommodate you.) Knight Inlet Lodge – 3 nights (1CB,2FB,3L,3D) 5. Say goodbye to the lodge and wilderness as the seaplane arrives to return you to Vancouver Island. Spend the final evening in Nanaimo… for the adventurous, go out and walk this harborside town in search of the perfect Nanaimo Bar (a local sweet, not an adult beverage establishment)! Coast Bastion Hotel (FB,L) 6. The morning ferry returns you to the mainland for an afternoon flight home, arriving in the early evening. (FB)

The Knights Inlet Lodge is a remote floating lodge in the wilderness, accessible only by seaplane or boat; and many activities include climbing into marine vessels or walking on uneven surfaces. For these reasons, you must be in stable physical condition, with good mobility. We do not recommend this tour for travelers with moderate to serious mobility issues. If you have questions or concerns,

Wildlife Viewing in British ColumbiaFeaturing the Knights Inlet Lodge and Grizzly Bear viewing

6 Days • October 4-9, 2016

talk with our staff before booking. Space is limited, with only 4 rooms available for single occupancy.


www.knightinletlodge.comwww.facebook.com/knightinlet

www.hellobc.com/campbell-river.aspxwww.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Library/

Mammals/Grizzly-Bear.aspx

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2016 Dream Book 41

• Multiple-night stays in waterview rooms: 2 nights in Bonners Ferry, ID and 3 nights in Nelson, BC

• Walk through history aboard the SS Moyie, a restored sternwheeler nestled along the banks of Kootenay Lake

• Learn about the culture of the Doukhobors at Castlegar

• Enjoy a night of contemporary luxury at the Davenport Towers, and the decadent Sunday Brunch at the historic Davenport Hotel

• Door-to-door airport service• Roundtrip air to/from Spokane, WA• 12 meals: 5 full breakfasts, 1 brunch,

6 lunches• 3150/3500 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

The Selkirk Loop is a 280-mile international scenic drive encircling the Selkirk Mountains of eastern Washington, northern Idaho and southeastern British Columbia. The entire loop follows alongside a river or lakeshore, with vast views of the valleys and mountains one minute, intimate water scenes or dense forest the next. The Selkirk Mountain Range, with peaks towering overhead at 11,500 feet are just

one of the many ranges comprising the Rocky Mountains. Did we mention this tour is a bit off-the-beaten-track? Many of the communities featured have populations of fewer than 500 inhabitants.

1. Upon your arrival in Spokane, travel along the Spokane River to Post Falls, Idaho before turning north to Bonners Ferry, located in the picturesque Kootenai Valley. Best Western Kootenai River Inn – 2 nights (L)

2. The Selkirks come into view today as you travel across the border into British Columbia. Spend the day in Creston Valley, learning about the area’s rich agricultural history and taking a walk through the wetlands. Return to Bonners Ferry for a sunset drive to the nature preserve. (FB,L)

3. Visit with talented and unique artisans as you travel along the shore of Kootenay Lake. Tour a very clever bottle house and stop at an artisan village in Crawford Bay before arriving in Nelson. Your hotel is located on the shore of the Kootenay Lake’s West Arm, with a great waterfront parkway along the shoreline for quiet walks. Prestige Lakeside Resort – 3 nights (FB,L)

4. In the picturesque community of Kaslo, on Kootenay Lake surrounded by the Selkirks, step aboard the beautifully restored SS Moyie for a cruise through the region’s history. Return to Nelson for an evening along the banks of the Kootenay. (FB,L)

5. Today visit a restored Doukhobors’ village, home to early Russian immigrants who settled in Castlegar. Crossing over a suspension bridge at Zukerberg Island, you can even walk to the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers! Your journey back to Nelson includes a stop in the unique community of Ymir for some afternoon hospitality. (FB,L)

6. Continue along the southwestern portion of the Selkirk Loop, crossing back into Washington, taking time for lunch in Newport. Your final destination is the river city of Spokane and one of the finest addresses in town. Your tower rooms await you in all their contemporary elegance. Davenport Towers (FB,L)

7. Enjoy a fabulous champagne brunch served at the beautiful historic Davenport Hotel located just across the street. Following brunch, check-in at Spokane Airport for your connecting flights back home. (BR)


The International Selkirk LoopFeaturing a breathtaking drive through the Selkirk Mountains

7 Days • August 22-28

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It’s been a while since we offered this popular summer getaway. It has a little bit of everything: professional theatre, stunning outdoor views, a train through beautiful country, and the old world charm of Bavaria without a long plane ride! Call today to place your name on the Priority Notification List.

1. Fly to Seattle, where lunch is included on the waterfront. Just adjacent to the restaurant is famous Pike Place Market; shop for a few goodies found in the Pacific Northwest or perhaps just watch the flying fish! In the late afternoon, board Amtrak’s Empire Builder for a short journey into the majestic mountains of Washington. At the heart of the state you’ll find Leavenworth,

Washington’s own Little Bavaria. Your accommodations are located close to the center of the village with a full breakfast included each day. Bavarian Lodge – 3 nights (L)

2. Located in the heart of the Wenatchee Valley and surrounded by orchards, the community of Cashmere is known now as the home of Liberty Orchards, makers of “Applets and Cottlets,” the fruit and nut confections. Tour the factory along with the Pioneer Village and Museum. Back in Leavenworth, enjoy lunch at your leisure and an optional walking tour of historic downtown. Dinner is included at King Ludwig’s German Restaurant, served family-style, prior to tonight’s performance

Presented in an outdoor theatre in Laguna Beach, The Pageant of the Masters uses live persons to re-create well-known pieces of art. The staging, the costuming, and the effects created by make-up and lighting are simply incredible. Words fail to truly explain the pageant; you simply have to see it to believe it.

1. Your tour begins with a morning flight to Southern California. Upon arrival, travel to Newport Harbor for a private cruise and brunch aboard a Hornblower yacht. Home to many of the “rich and famous” of Southern California, view the lovely coastal scenery and sights while enjoying a delicious brunch buffet. Following the cruise, depart for your hotel. With full-service amenities and restaurants within walking distance, it provides a comfortable and pleasant stay. Marriott Newport Beach Hotel & Spa – 2 nights (BR)

Laguna Beach & The Pageant of the MastersPerhaps the most unique display of art in the world, right in your own backyard

3 Days • August 14-16 or 21-23

2. This morning a short drive takes us to Sherman Library & Gardens for a tour of its collection of plant life that spans the globe. Ranging from desert regions to exotic vegetation, the Gardens is a museum of living plants displayed amidst a setting of fountains, sculptures, and seasonal flowers. Return to the hotel for time to relax before your tour of the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters grounds in Laguna Beach. Dinner is included at Tivoli Terrace Restaurant before the pageant begins at 8:30pm. Reserved orchestra seating provides comfortable and excellent viewing. (D)

3. Return to Laguna Beach this morning for lunch with a speaker from the pageant who will answer questions and provide stories and insight to the memorable event you experienced and enjoyed last evening. An afternoon flight returns you home. (L)

This tour will include door-to-door airport service, roundtrip air to/from Southern California, deluxe motorcoach service, accommodations, all attractions listed, 3 meals (1BR,1L,1D), and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director. 1400/1550 Gold Passport Points


of the popular musical The Sound of Music. Performed outdoors with the mountains of the Wenatchee Forest in the background, you’ll feel like you’re in the hills of Switzerland with the Von Trapp Family! (FB,D)

3. Discover Rocky Reach Dam and the Columbia River Museum on a tour today. After an included lunch visit Ohme Gardens, situated on top of a large bluff overlooking the Columbia River. Tonight, another theatre performance: this time inside for a staged production of the musical comedy Singing in the Rain. (FB,L)

4. Bid farewell to Leavenworth and begin your journey westward with lunch in the small town of Snohomish. Conclude your visit to the Evergreen State with a stop at the Boeing Museum of Flight. A return flight from Seattle returns you home in the early evening. (FB,L)

The tour will include door-to-door airport service, roundtrip air, deluxe motorcoach service, passage aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder, accommodations, all attractions and shows listed, 7 meals (3FB,3L,1D), and the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director.

The Sounds of Music in LeavenworthTake the Train to Washington’s Little Bavaria

4 Days • August 2016

www.bavarianlodge.comwww.leavenworthsummertheater.org

www.foapom.comwww.marriott.com/hotels/travel/laxnb-newport-beach-marriott-hotel-and-spa

www.tivoliterrace.com

2016 Dream Book 43

• Designated viewing area for Custer State Park’s Buffalo Roundup

• 5 days sightseeing in the Black Hills including both day and night visits to Mt. Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and the Mammoth Dig Site

• Stand on top of the fingertip of the Crazy Horse Memorial

• Roundtrip air to/from Rapid City• 10 meals: 3 continental breakfasts, 3 full


HIGHLIGHTS

One of the most inclusive, in-depth visits to the Black Hills area offered by Sports Leisure Vacations.

1. After a mid-day arrival in Rapid City, visit the Journey Museum. The museum brings together a wide-range of sources to tell the story of not only the geology and history of the Black Hills but also of the people and cultures who have called these hills home. Spearfish Canyon Resort – 2 nights (L) 2. Travel back to the wild days of the Black Hills with a visit to Deadwood. Visit Tatanka: Story of the Bison, Boot Hill and the historic main street saloons. (FB,D) 3. Dedicated to Native Americans, the Crazy Horse Memorial includes an arts and crafts center in addition to the museum and memorial. You have the unique opportunity to stand on a monumental carving project

National Treasures of the WestFeaturing the Black Hills, Crazy Horse Memorial, Deadwood and Mount Rushmore

7 Days • September 25 – October 1

that is still a work in progress. Next, enjoy a daytime visit to Mount Rushmore and walk along the base of the mountain. Palmer Gulch Lodge – 2 nights (FB) 4. Travel south to Hot Springs where, more than 26,000 years ago, Woolly Mammoths were stuck in situ in a sinkhole. A visitors center enables you to view firsthand this working paleontological site. This evening return to Mount Rushmore for the very poignant lighting of the mountain. (CB,L) 5. Drive through Badlands National Park, or Mako Sico as the Native Americans called this spectacular land of awesome wonder, of nature in action; an otherworldly land of soft clays and sandstones carved by wind and water. You are on your own for lunch in Wall, home of Wall Drug Store, famous for offering a free cup of ice water to weary travelers. Today, “Wall Drug” is a multi-complex of restaurants, museums, and shops… and yes, it still offers the free ice water! Hilton Garden Inn – 2 nights (CB,D) 6. Everyone is up bright and early this morning for a trip to Custer State Park for the park’s annual buffalo roundup. The park’s personnel, along with additional cowhands, will drive its herd of nearly 1,000 buffalo into corrals. You will be located at one of the designated viewing areas along the way. This afternoon, enjoy the quaint main street of Rapid City, lined with statues of our Presidents, or return to your room for a late afternoon rest. (CB) 7. Depart Rapid City in late morning with an early evening arrival home. (FB)


Spearfish

Deadwood

RapidCity Wall

Custer State Park

Crazy HorseMammoth Hot Springs

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5-6

Mt. Rushmorewww.crazyhorsememorial.org

www.nps.gov/moru


• Explore Newport’s Marble House and Canfield House with costumed guides

• Learn about the seafarers of early America at Mystic Seaport

• Travel by excursion train and paddle wheeler through the stunning Connecticut River Valley

• Tour Mark Twain’s home in Hartford• Participate in the 100th Anniversary

Celebration of the Eastern States Exposition• Several special lunches including the

Canfield House in Newport, aboard the Essex Steam Train and at Storrowton Village at “The Big E”

• Roundtrip air to Providence/from Hartford• Door-to-door airport service• 12 meals: 1 full breakfast, 2 breakfasts,

6 lunches, 3 dinners• 3200/3700 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Fly to Providence, RI and transfer to your hotel, by the sea and in the shadow of the former “summer cottages” of the rich and famous. The Newport Harbor Hotel – 2 nights (D)

2. The summer homes of some of America’s most wealthy families can be found here. Walk in their footsteps during a private tour. Meet “Mrs. Caroline Astor” for a city tour of Newport followed by a visit to Marble House, the “cottage” of Mrs. Alva Vanderbilt. Lunch is featured in the dining room of the Canfield House, a former gambling parlor with a unique history of its own. A re-creation of a Newport Cotillion follows with an opportunity to learn some basic steps! The afternoon is yours to explore another mansion or visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame or Newport Art Museum. (L)

3. Travel across Narragansett Bay from Rhode Island to Connecticut this

morning and discover Mystic Seaport, a living history village that faithfully recreates life in a New England fishing port. A maritime museum and port full of historic ships are complimented by historical interpreters and lunch. In the afternoon, check in to your hotel early or pay a visit to the U.S. Submarine Base Museum, home of our country’s first nuclear submarine, the USS Nautilus. Hilton Hotel Mystic (L)

4. Travel from the Atlantic Ocean through the Connecticut River Valley to the village of Essex. Board the Essex Steam Train for a fabulous lunch excursion! A three-course lunch is served aboard a restored 1920’s Pullman dining car as you ride the rails along the river. At the end of the line, board the riverboat Becky Thatcher for a sightseeing voyage back down the river. Finish the day in Hartford, Connecticut’s capital city. Hilton Hotel Hartford (FB,L)

5. Mark Twain grew up in Missouri and along the banks of the mighty Mississippi. He wrote whenever he traveled but his most prolific works were written in Hartford, at

the home he designed for himself, his wife and three daughters. Tour his historic home and learn about his life of highs and lows at the informative museum

just next door. Pause for lunch before crossing the border

into Massachusetts and the river city of Springfield. Hampton Inn

Springfield/Chicopee – 2 nights (L,D)

6. The Eastern States Exposition is a fair for the entire region of New England, six states in all! In addition to providing what

most expect from a fair, “The Big E” also preserves a unique history with Storrowton Village, an authentic collection of historic homes and buildings from the 18th and 19th Centuries. Additionally, the exposition provides an opportunity to set foot into six states all in one day! The Avenue of States features six impressive replicas of New England statehouses sitting on land actually owned by that state! Lunch is served at historic Storrowton Tavern, in the village, after a guided tour by a costumed docent. A shuttle will return you to the hotel – stay throughout the afternoon exploring the exhibits, tasting the foods, or even trying a ride or two! (B,L,D)

7. At the nearby Springfield Museums, choose from four museums to compliment your interests: The Smith Art Museum, the Springfield Science Museum, the Wood Museum of Springfield History, or the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts. Visit one or all – they literally share a quad that features the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden (he was from Springfield!), which includes characters from his beloved children’s stories. You can even take a walk down to Mulberry Street, the inspiration for his first book, located just two blocks from the garden. After lunch, return home from Hartford. (B,L)


Hartford

Essex

Providence

Mystic

CTNewport

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41-2

Springfield5-6

www.thebige.comwww.marktwainhouse.orgwww.essexsteamtrain.com

www.springfieldmuseums.org

New England’s Mansions, Shores & ExpositionMansions in Rhode Island, Connecticut’s Seashore & River Valley,

and “The Big E” of Massachusetts

7 Days • September 14-20

2016 Dream Book 45

• Cruise on Payette Lake• Learn about “Smoke Jumpers”• Tour a bronze foundry• Soar to great heights on a gondola ride• Explore Pendleton’s Underground• Visit the historic Columbia River Highway’s

Crown Point and Multnomah Falls• Experience lunch at Timberline Lodge on

Mt. Hood• 13 meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 full breakfasts,

5 lunches, 2 dinners• Roundtrip air to Boise/from Portland• Door-to-door airport service• 2700/3000 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

Boise to Portland, The Columbia River RouteFeature two-night stays in three quaint towns


1. Depart for Boise. Lunch is hosted before continuing on to McCall, Idaho. Your hotel is surrounded by towering pines and sophisticated mountain lodge décor. Hunt Lodge – 2 nights (L)

2. Picture-perfect mountains and a pristine glacial lake frame the charming town of McCall. Visit the McCall Smoke Jumpers Base and learn about the heroic first responders dropped into wilderness fires. This afternoon, discover pristine Payette Lake aboard the Idaho. Enjoy beautiful scenery and interactive commentary about local history and various points of interest during your boat tour. (B,D)

3. Travel this morning to Joseph, the best little town in Oregon, often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of America.” Joseph is a real off-the-beaten-track gem that sits at the foot of the Wallowa Mountains on a glacial lake. It’s quite a friendly town, with hanging

flower baskets and life-sized bronze sculptures on its street corners. Lunch is hosted en-route before checking into your hotel in the neighboring town of Enterprise. Eagles View Inn – 2 nights (B,L)

4. Today, tour of one of the town’s bronze foundries and ascend the summit of Mt. Howard by gondola. Spectacular views of the lake and the mountains will surely be a memorable experience as well as tonight’s private special dinner. (B,D)

5. The historic underground “city” of Pendleton has been well-preserved and gives you a glimpse into the role the Chinese played in shaping the present-day Pendleton and the state of Oregon. Take a guided tour of the tunnels with a historian and discover both the legal and illegal businesses operated entirely underground, allowing visitors to see the basalt-rock tunnels the way they were constructed

pre-1890’s. Follow the Columbia River west to Hood River and your home for the next two nights. Sleep well on the banks of the Columbia where you will have river-view rooms. Best Western Hood River Inn – 2 nights (B,L)

6. Discover a million dollar view of the Columbia Gorge at the Vista House at Crown Point and travel the historic Columbia River Highway to Multnomah Falls; at 620 feet, it is Oregon’s tallest waterfall. At the base of the falls find the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, where you will enjoy a hosted lunch. Experience the history of the Columbia River Gorge and learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition on a cruise aboard the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler, providing breathtaking vistas. Watch Native American tribes fish from their legendary platforms as they have for centuries. (FB,L)

7. Today enjoy lunch and a tour at Timberline Lodge. Constructed in 1937, it stands on the south slope of Mt. Hood at an elevation of 6,000 feet. This beautiful National Historic Landmark is still being used for its original intent – as a magnificent ski lodge. Fly home from Portland this evening. (FB,L)


www.thehuntlodge.com www.valleybronze.comwww.hoodriverinn.com

Portland

HoodRiver

Pendleton

Enterprise

WA

Joseph

Boise

McCall

ID

OR

Historic ColumbiaRiver Gorge /Multnomah Falls

WallowaLake

PayetteLake

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Nez PerceHistorical Park

1-2

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Mt. Hood


Mexico City Puebla

Oaxaca

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• In Mexico City, admire the famous murals of Diego Rivera; visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Anthropology Museum

• Spend two days in Puebla, enjoying the mole poblano as well as shopping for that perfect piece of Talavera pottery

• Visit Cholula, one of Mexico’s Pueblo Magicos featuring one of the largest Mesoamerican pyramids in the Americas.

• Experience three days in Oaxaca, a colorful home to some of the best textiles and pottery in Mexico; and more fabulous food!

• Visit Unesco World Heritage sites, Monte Alban and Mitla; learn the secrets of mescal; and visit Arbol del Tule, the giant Montezuma Cypress

• Partake in fresh local traditional foods throughout the trip; and a presentation of local music one night in Oaxaca

• A local, English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the entire visit along with a Sports Leisure Tour Director


• Door–to–door airport service• Roundtrip air to/from Mexico City• 4350/4650 Gold Passport Points

HIGHLIGHTS

Experience the beautiful sights and colors of Puebla, the textiles and regional foods of Oaxaca, and the incredible frescos of the National Palace in Mexico City. This vacation has been designed to experience the regional flavor, culture and history of three of Mexico’s most beautiful cities. Each has a different emphasis. Be immersed in the markets, artisan shops and zocalos. Please note: as this tour visits archeological sites and local marketplaces and accommodations are located at elevations which can exceed 7,000 feet, we cannot recommend this tour for those with mobility or health issues. Specific hotel information will be available after December.

1. Arrive in Mexico City and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at a popular restaurant featuring regional cuisine. Mexico City – 2 nights (D)

2. Your day in Mexico City will feature a tour through the historical district and those places that highlight the history and culture of the region. (FB,L,D)

3. Depart for the colorful and charismatic city of Puebla, the site of the “Cinco de Mayo” battle between the French and local residents. You will be stunned with the

beauty of the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the first public library in the Americas, and the cathedral next door. Visit a local market for browsing and shopping – the colorful Talavera pottery is incredible. Puebla – 2 nights (FB,L,D)

4. As you explore the culinary, archaeological and architectural delights of Puebla, a visit to Cholula highlights the Mesoamerican presence in this area. The day would not be complete without a visit to a local marketplace for a taste of mole poblano, tamales and some colorful desserts. (FB,D)

5. A morning drive through the Sierra Madre brings you to Oaxaca, “La Verde Antequera”… named after the green quarry stone seen in so many of its buildings. Oaxaca – 4 nights (FB,L,D)

6-8. Our days in Oaxaca are filled with visiting Unesco World Heritage sites such as Monte Alban, an ancient Zapotec city, and Mitla, a Mixtec ceremonial center, with visits to the local artisans. In Teotitlan, Zapotec weavers demonstrate their traditional techniques of weaving and wool dyeing. In San Bartolo Coyotepec, skilled artisans create distinctive black pottery. And in the Mercado Juarez, discover the ingredients for the flavorful and distinctive cuisine of Oaxaca. (3FB,3L,3D)

9. Say good-bye to charming and

colorful Oaxaca and return to Mexico City with lunch en route.

Mexico’s Puebla and OaxacaFeaturing two colonial cities: their cuisine, art and architecture

10 Days • November 4-13, 2016

www.visitmexico.com/en/pueblawww.visitmexico.com/en/oaxacahttp://whc.unesco.org/en/list/415

Accommodations will be near the airport in preparation for a return flight. Mexico City – 1 night. (FB,L,D)

10. Your pottery is wrapped and the mescal is packed between your Zapotec weavings, so now it is time for your return to the United States.


2016 Dream Book 47

DANUBE RIVER CRUISE ITINERARY

DAY/DATE PORT/CITY ARRIVE DEPART NOTES

Fri., Oct. 7, 2016 Passau 09:00AM

Fri., Oct. 7, 2016 Linz 03:30PM 09:00PM Evening in port

Sat., Oct. 8, 2016 Melk 07:00AM 11:30AM Abbey tour

Sat., Oct. 8, 2016 Dürenstein 01:30PM 06:00PM Walking tour/wine tasting

Sat., Oct. 8, 2016 Vienna 11:30PM

Sun., Oct. 9, 2016 Vienna City tour

Mon., Oct. 10, 2016 Vienna 03:00AM

Mon., Oct. 10, 2016 Bratislva 08:00AM 07:00PM City tour

Tue./Wed., Oct. 11-12, 2016 Budapest 08:00AM Night cruise

Thur., Oct. 13, 2016 Budapest 09:00AM

Sail into the pages of a storybook along the legendary Danube; pages gilded with history and a past filled with turrets and towers of castles steeped in legend. Meander along the fabled river in between grand cities like Vienna and Budapest, where kings and queens once waltzed, and to gingerbread towns that evoke tales of Hansel and Gretel and the Brothers Grimm. If you listen closely, you might hear the haunting melody of the Lorelei siren herself as you cruise past her river cliff post!

Explore both sides of Hungary’s capital–traditional “Buda” and the more cosmopolitan “Pest”– and from Fishermen’s Bastion see how the river divides this fascinating city. Experience Vienna’s imperial architecture and gracious culture, and tour riverside towns in Austria’s Wachau Valley. And in Germany, explore a baroque cathedral and stroll cobbled

A Cruise on the Blue DanubeFeaturing three nights in Prague and seven nights aboard the Amadeus Royal

12 Days • October 2-13, 2016

• 3 nights in Prague with hotel accommo-dations, a city tour, and daily breakfast

• 7 nights cruise on the Amadeus Royal river cruise ship

• 6 incredible excursions in Passau, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Melk and Dürnstein

• Roundtrip air to Prague/from Budapest• All meals on board the ship including wine

with dinner• Deluxe motorcoach transportation• Door-to-door airport service• Transfers and luggage handling in Prague

and Budapest• Services of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour

Director• Gold Passport Points based on cabin

category

HIGHLIGHTS streets lined with half-timbered houses. Savor the tastes of authentic dishes, learn about local legends, and understand why Strauss immortalized the “Blue Danube” in his famous melody. For the full, day-by-day itinerary please visit our website. Please be aware that river levels and other factors can change quickly and affect the itinerary. The cruise line is the final authority on any changes.

Aboard the Amadeus Royal, experience outstanding comfort and quality accompanied by perfected service in an atmosphere of classic elegance. Launched in 2005 and renovated in 2015, she is fitted out with many refinements. Your cabin is your window to the world that passes by you, taking you to new places and revealing charming landscapes. All of the bright, spacious cabins have unrestricted views of the scenery through wide, glass panoramas. Many cabins feature a French balcony (sliding glass windows) that spans the width of the cabin. The food on board

ship is a reflection of the landscapes and regions you visit. The carefully composed menus feature local specialties. Selected wines are included with dinner that go perfectly with each dish.

Prices will be announced November 5. Priority Notification List available!


www.amadeuscruises.com


1-2. Depart Sacramento for Sydney. Routing is via San Francisco or Los Angeles. Air schedules will be announced January 1, 2016. Most trans-Pacific departures are late evening. Cross the International Date Line and arrive in Sydney the following morning (plus you have lost a day in crossing).

3. Your rooms are guaranteed for early arrival. In the afternoon, enjoy a city orientation tour highlighting the Botanical Gardens, Hyde Park, The Domain and a stop at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for the best views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Sydney is endowed with a sparkling harbor, fabulous beaches and a sunny Mediterranean climate. The Grace Hotel – 3 nights + early check in

4. Depart on foot with our local guides to the Rocks for the Rocks Walking Tour. The “Rocks” area was Sydney’s first settlement and boasts a colorful and notorious past. The Rocks is a wonderful area to wander around, full of narrow cobbled streets, fine colonial buildings and countless historical touches. The afternoon is at leisure. (FB)

5. The morning is at leisure, then take a short walk over to the Sydney Opera House for a guided tour. The Opera House is Australia’s premier venue for the performing arts and home to the Australian Opera Company, the Australian Ballet, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the

Australia and New Zealand, Koalas and KiwisSydney, Alice Springs, Ayres Rock, Adelaide, Melbourne, Christchurch, Queenstown, Fjords of New Zealand

18 Days • November 3-20, 2016

Sydney Theatre Company. Depending on performance schedules, you may be able to add a show this evening.

After the Opera House tour, depart Circular Quay for your afternoon coffee cruise of Sydney Harbour, which most travel experts agree is one of the most scenic harbors in the world. You will see spectacular views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Opera House and much more. See Sydney’s foreshore parkland and many stately homes. Enjoy the commentary while you sip a fresh brewed pot of coffee or tea and munch on baked goodies. (FB,D)

6. Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Ayers Rock. The afternoon is spent visiting the Olgas and later viewing the spectacular setting sun lighting up the Rock, the world’s largest monolith. This evening absorb the sounds of the didgeridoo and dine on true Outback cuisine as we enjoy our Sounds of Silence Dinner under the stars. Outback Pioneer Hotel (FB,D)

7. All morning is spent exploring the fascinating “Rock.” In the afternoon we coach through the semi-arid desert that is known as the “Red Centre” to Alice Springs. Originally founded as a staging point for the overland telegraph line in the 1870s, the Alice Springs of today is a pleasant, modern town and the jumping off point for adventures into the famed Australian Outback. Lasseters Hotel (FB)

8. A morning tour of Alice Springs highlights the original waterhole, the “Alice Springs” at the historic Old Telegraph Station. We also visit the Royal Flying Doctors base and learn how this facility provides a mantle of safety for the people of the Outback. Call in at the School of the Air where you may be able to hear children taking their lessons via radio. The tour concludes at the train station where we board the legendary

Ghan train. Overnight from Alice Springs to Adelaide onboard the train. Breakfast and dinner included. Travel in upgraded Gold Kangaroo Class. (FB,D)

9. Arrive in Adelaide from Alice Springs on The Ghan at 11:30am. Transfer to the Adelaide Hills for lunch. Delight in the sweeping views over the lake and vineyard. Continue touring to Hahndorf village – the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia and a popular tourist destination. Majestic Roof Garden Hotel (FB,L)

10. A city tour of Adelaide this morning on the way to the airport for your short flight to Melbourne, often called Australia’s most “European city.” It is also known as the cultural, culinary and financial center of the country. This evening enjoy dinner on the Colonial Tramcar Diner. Crowne Promenade Hotel – 2 nights (FB)

11. Travel the Great Ocean Road. Discover the legends of “The Shipwreck Coast” at Port Campbell National Park, and tour the spectacular Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge. Enjoy a traditional Aussie billy tea while taking in the views. The mighty Twelve Apostles are world-recognized icons. These giant rock stacks soar from the swirling waters of the Southern Ocean and are a central feature of the spectacular Port Campbell National Park. (FB,L)

2016 Dream Book 49

• Door-to-door service, a Sports Leisure Tour Director to assist, narration provided throughout by professional driver/guides

• All air flights are included, Roundtrip from the U.S. and return, flights from Sydney/Ayers Rock, Adelaide/Melbourne, Queenstown/Auckland

• 11,000/12,550 Gold Passport PointsAustralia Portion Includes

• 9 nights: 3 nights Sydney (plus early check-in), overnights in Alice Springs and Ayers Rock, a night on board The Ghan train, overnight in Adelaide, 2 nights Melbourne

• 15 meals: 9 full breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners (cost of beverages not included with lunch and dinner)

• Rocks walking tour, admission to Sydney Opera House tour, cruise on Sydney Harbor

• Flight to Ayers Rock, viewing of “The Rock,” the world’s largest monolith, Sounds of Silence Dinner under the stars

• Alice Springs, gateway to the Outback• The Ghan train, ride in Gold Kangaroo Class

overnight, breakfast and dinner included• Lunch in the Adelaide Hills, tour Hahndorf

village (oldest surviving German settlement)• Flight from Adelaide to Melbourne, coastal

drive, Port Campbell National Park, tour the spectacular Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge

• Flight from Melbourne to ChristchurchNew Zealand Portion Includes

• 6 nights: Overnight Christchurch and Franz Josef, 3 nights Queenstown, overnight Auckland


• City tour of Christchurch, including the botanic gardens and the Canterbury Museum

• Daytrip on the TranzAlpine train, a 230 km scenic trip across the south island from coast to coast, view the Franz Josef Glacier in Westland World Heritage Park

• Queenstown – full day sightseeing trip to the fjords (Doubtful Sound Wilderness, accessible only by cruise boat and a connecting bus ride), morning trip to Arrowtown, cruise on Lake Wakatipu, gondola ride in Queenstown

• Auckland – this overnight is scheduled to break up the trip home, sightseeing in the city as the air schedule allows

HIGHLIGHTS 13. Transfer by coach to Christchurch rail station to join the TranzAlpine scenic train to Greymouth. The TranzAlpine, rated one of the world’s top nine scenic trains, travels 230 km across the South Island from coast to coast and back again in the same day. This afternoon travel on to Franz Josef Glacier. Guests can take a self-guided walk close to the terminal face of the glacier from the glacier car park. We recommend comfortable walking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness.

The scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier sits at the edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, just moments from one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions, the Franz Josef Glacier. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings within the village. Scenic Hotel Franz Josef (FB,D)

14. Drive through the stunning scenery of South Westland National Park to the Haast Pass with sightseeing stops en route. Travel past Lake Hawea to tranquil Lake Wanaka. A sumptuous BBQ lunch is included at Edgewater Resort in the lakeside restaurant.

Afternoon travels take you through the fruit growing region of Cromwell and the gold-rich Kawarau Gorge to Queenstown. Visit a local roadside orchard as well as Gibbston Valley Winery for a guided tour in the cave cellar. Arrive in Queentown. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is located right on the waterfront of spectacular Lake Wakatipu, and just a step from the cosmopolitan centre of Queenstown. Novotel – 3 nights (FB,L)

15. It’s a two hour transfer to Manapouri to embark on the day’s excursion. Immerse

yourself in the vast and untouched wilderness of Doubtful Sound, the second largest fjord in Fiordland National Park. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away. You may see bottlenose dolphins and fur seals at play, or catch a glimpse of a rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Getting

to Doubtful Sound is an adventure in itself. This isolation makes the fjord a very special place, a place only those in the know get to see.

From Pearl Harbour cruise across Lake Manapouri to West Arm then travel by coach over the Wilmot Pass through dense rainforest. Once at Doubtful Sound board your catamaran for a 3-hour wilderness cruise of the sound out to the Tasman Sea. Rejoin your coach back to Queenstown for the evening at leisure. (FB)

16. The historic gold mining township of Arrowtown makes a great excursion. Think Amador County in California and you have a vision.

It’s a short 40-minute cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm where a great BBQ awaits overlooking Lake Wakatipu. The menu, designed by Kiwi Celebrity Chef Josh Emett, incorporates the fresh seasonal produce and locally hunted game so famous in the region. Return to Queenstown mid-afternoon for some free time. This evening transfer by coach to the Skyline gondola terminal for a ride up to Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the Stratosfare Restaurant. (FB,L,D)

17. We will fly to Auckland for an overnight before the journey back across the Pacific. A city tour may be included in Auckland. Stamford Plaza Hotel (FB)

18. Depart from Auckland today, bound for California. Schedules will be announced just after the first of the year.

$10,889 p.p./dbl.occ., $12,505 singleThis vacation requires

a valid passport!

12. Transfer to the airport for your flight across the Tasman Sea to the New Zealand city of Christchurch. Although badly damaged by the February 2011 earthquake the city is regenerating and will become a showcase for earthquake proof, eco-friendly and sustainable architecture. Sights included will be the beautiful Botanic Gardens and the Canterbury Museum. A three-course Welcome Dinner is included at your hotel. Rydges Latimer (FB,D)

Alice Springs

Ayers Rock Sydney

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At Sports Leisure Vacations, we have always given our travelers a vote. If you see a destination on this page which interests you, simply call our office and ask to be placed on the Priority Notification List for the trip(s) of your choice. If the tour materializes, you will be the first to know and have the opportunity to register (and take advantage of any Early Registration Di$counts which might be offered).

Placing your name on the list does not obligate you in any way. Likewise, we ask you only put your name on a tour if you have a genuine interest in going there; If it was offered in the next newsletter, and the itinerary, dates and price were right, you’d be likely to register. Thank you in advance for your show of interest!

A Canadian Thanksgiving & Niagara Falls6 Days • October 2016Our neighbors to the north celebrate a traditional Thanksgiving much the way we do in the states. Except late November would be a bit late for families to gather in some parts of the country, so Canada’s Thanksgiving in celebrated on the Monday we celebrate Columbus Day in October. Fly to/from Buffalo. This tour would require a valid passport.

This itinerary would feature 3 nights in southeastern Ontario, in the cities of Kitchener and Waterloo. There’s a parade, a barrel rolling contest, lots of polkas and of course, food for days, because they celebrate Oktoberfest in Canada too! Visit a Mennonite community before continuing on to Niagara Falls, where your accommodations will feature rooms with spectacular views of the falls. Stay 2 nights and have time to enjoy the view, along with local attractions, including the famous Maid of the Mist cruise to the base of the falls.

Old Man River7-8 Days • October 2016One of Clayton’s favorites, this tour starts in St. Louis and heads up the Mississippi River Road, stopping in Hannibal for a Mark Twain lesson. It continues through Quad Cities and Dubuque, with a visit to the Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa. The last past of the trip takes you through southern Minnesota to finish up in St. Paul, a truly beautiful city.

Tour Teasers…Kindly allow us to tell you about some of the destinations that are “on the drawing board.” Listed on this page are tours we are considering for next year. One of the deciding factors on whether or not these destinations are added to the schedule is your response.

Branson/Crystal Bridges Museum/Route 666 Days • September/October 2016Haven’t had many requests for the previously popular Branson the last couple of years. This package would feature a stop in Arkansas at the new Crystal Bridges Art Museum in Bentonville. It’s a world-class venue, despite being in a small town. Not just any small town by the way: it’s the headquarters for Walmart. The itinerary would include two nights in Branson, with the chance to see the famous Japanese violinist, Shoji Tabuchi, and another show or two which you will vote on (tour participants will be asked which shows they would like to see ahead of time, and the most popular will be added to the itinerary).

The tour would conclude with a ride on Route 66 in Oklahoma, visiting Claremore and the Will Roger Memorial, before concluding in Tulsa.

Asheville/The Crooked Road6 Days • October 2016Fly to Asheville, NC, home of the Biltmore Mansion, former home of the Vanderbilts and still owned by the family. Tour the mansion and learn the history of this “Hearst Castle of the East.”

The Crooked Road is a 330-mile driving trail through the mountains of Southwest Virginia that connects over 60 affiliated music venues and festivals that can be visited year-round. Bonus: The fall colors should be spectacular in the Appalachians in mid-to-late October.

Sedona & The Grand Canyon4 Days • October 2016A popular itinerary we offer on a regular basis. It includes Sunday Brunch at the Scottsdale Conference Center on arrival. Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon, land of the red rocks, is just a short drive away. Includes 2 nights in Sedona and 2 nights Tusayan (at the entrance to the Grand Canyon), a trolley tour to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and lunch at the beautiful Enchantment Resort. Fly to/from Phoenix.

Airfares and Foreign Currency Exchange

All tours that include air travel are based on airfares as of September 1, 2015. Airfares for tours departing after October 1, 2016 are subject to change until confirmed by the airline. All international vacations in this catalog are priced based on currency exchange rates in effect September 22, 2015. Changes of more than 5% may subject tour prices to an adjustment at 30 to 60 days prior to departure. You will be notified if there is a surcharge or refund.

By Invitation Only

Often we learn of exciting travel opportunities we are certain our members would love, but we can’t offer them because they don’t line up with the publication schedule of our newsletter. In an effort to alleviate that issue, we’re proud to offer By Invitation Only to all active Travel Club Members. The only requirement is that you have an e-mail address (or a friend who does)!

Register online by following the link on our website at www.sportsleisure.com. This places you on the short list of people who will be notified of these special, time-sensitive and often limited-availability events and tours. We don’t send out invitations often, but when we do you can rest assured you’re in for something unique and exciting. Past tours offered through By Invitation Only include Scottish singing sensation Susan Boyle and the San Francisco debut of Kinky Boots.

The Great Gatsby at The Grand on Mackinac: (Clockwise from top right) Fran Engelhart was a perfect flapper, the ladies from Queens were ready for the party, more of the Sports Leisure gang at a Gatsby’s gathering, Mark and family pose with the orchestra. Great fun on Mackinac Island, September 2015. Thanks to Jessie for the great photos.

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Blueberry Photographic Society

You are cordially invited to join the Blueberry Photographic Society. Membership is free and easy. Just send an e-mail to [email protected], subject line: JOIN. Your very own Blueberry will arrive shortly thereafter by mail. Then take him with you wherever you go and snap away. Of course, bonus points are given whenever Blueberry is captured on an adventure with Sports Leisure Vacations!

When you’ve taken what you believe to be a million dollar shot, send your digital photo to the same address, subject line: CONTEST. Be sure to include the all-important what, where and when, and include a caption if you wish. One winner will be selected to have their photo published in each edition of The Traveler and win a gift card to a popular local restaurant. A Grand Prize winner, chosen annually, will receive a $500 Sports Leisure travel certificate! So what are you waiting for? Join the Blueberry Photographic Society today!

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We Have a Winner!

This year’s winner in the annual Blueberry Photographic Society Contest is Irene Kishaba. Her photo was voted the winner on the Sports Leisure Facebook page after the finalists were printed in the September newsletter. Congratulations to Irene, who receives a $500 Tour Certificate. You could be next year’s winner. Find out more below.


The Sports Leisure Difference… Answers to these frequently asked questions will tell you more about our company and help you enjoy your vacation to the fullest!

Can I find you on the web?You bet! www.sportsleisure.com. There you’ll find all our recent publications, valuable information on upcoming events and more. While online, consider joining our online notification service, By Invitation Only. There we’ll inform you of time-dated opportunities that present themselves between regular newsletter cycles.

I have dietary restrictions. Is this going to be a problem?If you have mild dietary restrictions or are a vegetarian, it is important you notify our office at the time of registration. It’s your responsibility to read your Tour Reservation Confirmation carefully and make certain your restrictions have been noted. As you can certainly understand, it is quite difficult for your Tour Director to accommodate those who wait until they are actually traveling to share their special needs. If you have severe dietary restrictions, you may find this type of travel is not for you.

Can I make other special requests?You are invited to make special requests of the airline and hotel(s) serving your vacation at the point of reservation. The more notice we have, the better our ability to accommodate you. Requests might include specific airline seating, the need for wheelchair assistance at airports; and at hotels, a smoking room, king bed and/or handicap-accessible room. Please note: we automatically request a non-smoking room for everyone in the group and a room with two beds for those traveling double occupancy unless you tell us otherwise. Handicap-accessible rooms are limited. We ask you to make this request only if your condition demands it. There could be another traveler who needs the room more than you.

I live in Nevada. What does your company offer me?We welcome our growing number of Nevada travelers with open arms! Most of you live in residential communities in the Reno/Sparks area. We’re also proud to have been selected as the official travel provider for the Retired Public Employees of Nevada who live state-wide. Our fly-away tours are priced to include air and door-to-door service for those living in the Sacramento, Reno/Sparks, Carson City and Las Vegas

metropolitan areas. Those living a distance from the airports in Sacramento, Reno or Las Vegas should consult with our office to determine the options best for you, some of which may add to the advertised tour price. At present, motorcoach tours depart only from the Sacramento area.

Can you explain “door-to-door service”?Quite simply, this means we will pick you up and return you to your home on all vacations of three days or longer. Provided by Carey Transportation of Sacramento, this service may involve a limousine, sedan, SUV or other special vehicle.

California door-to-door service is included within these boundaries: Davis on the west, Galt on the south, Auburn and Placerville on the east, Woodland to the north. Service is available for an additional charge for travelers living in Stockton, Yuba City/Marysville, Grass Valley, Winters, Vacaville, Fairfield, Pollock Pines and Colfax.

Nevada door-to-door service is provided to anyone living in the Reno/Sparks metropolitan area and south to Carson City, as well as travelers living in the greater Las Vegas metropolitan area.

A $75 per person credit is available for travelers to whom this service isn’t available, or for those who wish to opt out of this service and meet us at the point of departure.

Another option for those who live in outlying areas is to overnight in Sacramento. We have negotiated a special reduced rate at the Best Western PLUS Sutter House located downtown at 1100 H Street. You can leave your car in its lot while on vacation and enjoy door-to-door service to and from the

hotel. Call (916) 441-1314 or 1-800-830-1314 and ask for Doris Gray (extension 311) to make a reservation. We are happy to make recommendations for our Nevada travelers in need of similar services.

On overnight and daytrips, motorcoaches depart from convenient neighborhood pick-up points throughout the greater Sacramento and Roseville areas. Door-to-door service is available for a fee on daytrips and overnighters. Call the office for details.

I hear you refer to customers as “members.” Do I have to join a club to travel with you?Absolutely not, though most travelers do elect to join the Sports Leisure Travel Club. Only through club membership will you receive the annual catalog, our bimonthly newsletter The Traveler, and invitations to our special events. Additionally, only members can participate in Travel Club Gold, our bonus rewards program. A complimentary membership is extended to new and potential travelers upon request. After that, it’s only $10 per person, per year. A lifetime membership is available for $30 or $50 for a couple. Jon Holloway and our friends at Holloway Travel Outfitters (1150 Fulton Avenue, Sacramento, 916-486-9170) offer discounts to all members – just show your card.

What’s all this I hear about a “super bus?”Actually, it’s not a bus, but a coach – and not just any coach, but SuperCoach III. Our Prevost H3-45 was factory-configured with 55 seats. In cooperation with our local partners in travel, All West Coachlines, the first thing we did was reconfigure the seating to accommodate 44 travelers, providing extra leg-room for all. Then we added tray tables and foot rests for your

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additional comfort. In the rear, a fully-operative galley features a refrigerator, oven, built-in coffee makers and potable running water for the enjoyment of hot and cold snacks. Put one of All West’s professional drivers behind the wheel, and you’re riding on the finest motorcoach transportation available anywhere in North America. SuperCoach III is used on most daytrips, overnighters and selected long-distance trips unless it is unavailable due to maintenance or highway size restrictions.

You have assigned seating on your tours. What’s that about?By the vote of our membership, we do not rotate motorcoach seats as many companies do. You are free to select the seating of your choice at the point of reservation. Single travelers are sometimes required to take available single seats to leave remaining seat pairs for those traveling with a friend or spouse.

What about airport security restrictions? They seem to change all the time.The Transportation Security Administration requires that you provide us your date of birth and full name as is appears on your government-issued identification for all vacations involving air travel. Complete passport information is additionally required in advance for international travel. Up-to-date security information can be found on the internet at www.tsa.gov. Our staff stays current on the latest regulations in order to provide you timely and accurate assistance.

Have passport rules changed?Passports are required for all travel outside the U.S., including Canada and Mexico. If you are of foreign citizenship, we highly recommend you check with your country’s embassy and follow its instructions to make certain your travel will be legal and seamless. U.S. citizens in need of a passport can pick up an application at any post office. Please allow 8-10 weeks for processing. Your passport must be valid for at least six months past the end of your tour.

Do I need to worry about airline baggage charges?As each airline has different policies regarding luggage and associated charges, you may expect rules and restrictions (number of bags allowed, weight, etc.) to vary from trip to trip. You have this Sports Leisure promise: You will never pay to check your first bag on any flight on a U.S. airline. Should you wish to bring a second checked bag, please be prepared to pay your Tour Director at check-in. Second bag charges are not limited to airline fees and may include other handlers such

as hotel bellmen. The Tour Planner can advise you of additional charges by calling the office in advance of your departure. You might also find the airline’s website helpful.

Each checked bag has a strict weight limit of 40 or 50 pounds (depending on the trip). Bags weighing more will incur additional fees or be rejected. This policy applies throughout the tour. Many “wheelie” bags and oversized carry-ons that fit in airline overhead bins cannot be accommodated within the cabin of the motorcoach. In such cases, you will be asked to check them coachside with your Tour Director. They will be tagged and available coachside at each overnight stop.

Are my payments protected when I pay for my vacation in advance?Your deposits and final payments are protected in accordance with the State of California Seller of Travel Law (#2011549-40). In addition, Sports Leisure Vacations is a member of the Northeast California Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Can a friend from another city sign up for a Sports Leisure vacation, or join me for a meal or visit at one of our destinations?Yes! We can arrange travel for friends or relatives to meet our groups from any city in the world. (We currently have over 1,000 Travel Club members who live outside the Sacramento area.) If you have friends or relatives who would like to travel with you, have them call us toll free at 1-800-951-5556. With advance notice, we are also happy to welcome your friends or relatives who may live along the tour route and may wish to join us for a meal or attraction.

Can I extend my vacation to visit friends or relatives?The answer is almost always yes, particularly if you register and make your request at least 60 days prior to departure. There could be additional charges for flight deviations, but generally they are small. Many travelers take advantage of this service to visit friends or relatives, or explore a destination in greater detail on their own.

I have some trouble walking long distances. Will I be able to participate and enjoy the trip?In order to get full value from a travel experience, it is important to be in good mental and physical health. Walking and some step-climbing are necessary to participate in the normal activities of our vacations. While we can do almost everything for you on a Sports Leisure vacation, the Tour Director cannot provide sustained attention to individual clients.

Please be advised that we visit many cultural sites on tour, not all of which meet A.D.A. requirements due to their historic status.

Let us assure you that people with mobility restrictions are welcome on our vacations. Many of our travelers are over 70 (or even 80 or 90), something we keep in mind when planning our itineraries. In our office, the Tour Planner for each departure knows the itinerary well and would be happy to consult with you personally should you have questions regarding the amount of walking, elevations, etc., on a particular trip.

What if I become ill and cannot travel? Do you offer cancellation protection or travel insurance?Both are available on every departure. Either must be purchased at the time you make your initial tour payment. We strongly recommend you consider this optional protection. Please refer to the Special Vacation Notes and Information brochure for details. This coverage may not be available to travelers who have cancelled more than two tours in a 12-month period or who make their reservation less than one month prior to the departure date.

How does your company deal with “chronic complainers?”One or two can ruin a trip for all. Sports Leisure Vacations reserves the right not to accept or retain anyone whose lack of personal hygiene or poor general behavior, in the opinion of the Tour Director, impedes the operation of the tour and/or affects the rights of other travelers. A refund of unused tour services is the limit of our liability if a person is required to leave the tour for the reasons stated above. Said passenger(s) will be responsible for any additional costs to return to the city of origin.

We want to learn, discover and have fun together. Our groups are often complimented on their positive attitude by tourism professionals and other travelers who encounter us on the road. Life is too short for making yourself and others around you miserable due to small challenges that are bound to occur. Travel is by nature an inexact science. Problem travelers will kindly be asked to find another company with whom to travel.

And that’s the Sports Leisure Difference…

Proud Members of the

9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1Sacramento, California 95827(916) 361-2051(800) 951-5556 Toll-Freewww.sportsleisure.comCalifornia Seller of Travel #2011549-40

LLC

Thanks to our 2016 Vacation Preview Day Sponsors

2016experiencelifecatalogweb

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