New Exploration Vacations

Spend an unforgettable 15 days exploring the scenic vistas and magnificent wildlife of Kenya. Search for lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros on numerous game drives. Explore the pure scenic vistas and magnificent wildlife of Kenya, discovering the truly unique culture and experiences that make it one of the most popular African countries to visit. Numerous game drives bring you in search of the "Big 5" on your once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure.Enjoy a traditional bush dinner complete with Masai entertainment. Visit the Sweetwater Chimp Sanctuary and the Rothschild Giraffe Sanctuary. Spend two nights in a luxurious tented camp, with all the amenities of a five star resort. Enjoy a stay at the world-famous tree lodge, the Ark , for once-in-a-lifetime game viewing!

Day 1: Overnight Flight
Travel from your departure city, ie Boston, or New York, on an overnight flight to London or Amsterdam.

Day 2: Arrive Europe - Nairobi, Kenya - Tour Begins
Arrive in Europe for your flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Relax for the evening at the luxurious Norfolk Hotel. Brimming with British colonial charm, you will revel in this hotel's rich history.

Day 3: Nairobi - Samburu Reserve
Depart for Samburu Reserve, home to some of the country’s most exotic wildlife including the "Big 5", Reticulated Giraffe and Grevy’s Zebra. Enjoy a game drive en route to your riverside lodge. This evening, a lecture on the Samburu – an ethnic group related to the Masai – delves into its unique culture and traditions.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Samburu Intrepids.

Day 4: Samburu Reserve
Your search for the elusive "Big 5" continues as you journey through the rugged and dramatic Samburu region. The striking contrast of sand, sky and bush will leave you breathless. Keep your eye out for the spectacular local bird life; over 365 species of birds are known to inhabit Samburu. You may even spot the desert rose, splashing color against its natural surroundings.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Samburu Intrepids.

Day 5: Samburu Reserve - Nanyuki
Arrive at the sprawling, world-famous Mt. Kenya Safari Club in the shadow of Mt. Kenya. The resort boasts a delightful history and beautiful grounds – and was once the private hunting lodge and retreat of William Holden. Visit the Equator and witness the astounding Coriolis effect.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Mt. Kenya Safari Club.

Day 6: Nanyuki
Enjoy a day at leisure to experience the best of the Mt. Kenya Safari Club. Stroll through the 100 acres of landscaped gardens, visit the animal orphanage or just relax by the pool. Perhaps embark on an optional excursion to the Sweetwater Private Sanctuary.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Mt. Kenya Safari Club.

Day 7: Nanyuki - Aberdare National Forest
Travel through the Aberdares, a beautiful mountain range in Kenya’s central highlands where rainforest yields to bamboo forests and moorland. Queen Elizabeth was vacationing here when she became Queen of the United Kingdom. Enjoy a stay at the world-famous tree lodge, the Ark. Built on stilts in the heart of the forest, this lodge provides once-in-a-lifetime game viewing opportunities. Watch in awe from the deck or the underground bunker as the animals come to drink at a watering hole and salt lick located below the lodge.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Ark Lodge-Vintage Africa.

Day 8: Aberdare - Kigio Wildlife Conservancy
Drive past the mountains via Nyahururu waterfalls, arriving at the floor of the Great Rift Valley at Kigio, a private all-suite eco lodge and conservancy teeming with bio-diversity. An afternoon nature walk allows close viewing of several species of birds and indigenous plants. This evening, a local expert discusses conservation and community.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Kigio Wildlife Camp Hotel.

Day 9: Kigio
Enjoy a morning walk followed by breakfast in the bush. Then, see many of the local projects supported by the conservancy including basket making by widows, jewelry making from recycled paper, rug weaving and the local school. Continue to Lake Nakuru for a picnic lunch and a chance to see thousands of flamingos during your game drive.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Kigio Wildlife Camp Hotel.

Day 10: Kigio - Masai Mara
This morning, travel to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The Masai Mara is an extension of the great Serengeti Plain, considered by many to be the most magnificent game viewing spot in all of Kenya. Lions, giraffes, zebras, elephants and other wildlife reside here. Your tent provides all the deluxe amenities of a lodge, complete with the adventure of the wild! Visit a Masai village prior to your game drive. This evening, enjoy a traditional bush dinner featuring a Masai dance performance.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Siana Intrepid Camp.

Day 11: Masai Mara
An optional hot air balloon ride over the plains is available this morning. Your full-day game drive includes a picnic lunch. Return to your hotel for sunset.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Siana Intrepid Camp.

Day 12: Masai Mara - Nairobi
After breakfast, return to Nairobi. Travel to Karen, on the outskirts of Nairobi, and visit the farmhouse of Karen Blixen, author of the book "Out of Africa." Next, experience the local wildlife firsthand and take advantage of an opportunity to feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes from a raised platform at the Giraffe Sanctuary. Dine this evening at the famous Carnivore Restaurant – an open-air restaurant specializing in game meat, roasted on traditional Masai swords.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Norfolk Hotel Nairobi.

Day 13: Nairobi - Amboseli National Park
This morning depart Nairobi for Amboseli National Park, famous for its open plains where lions and elephants roam and the breathtaking snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro dominates the landscape. Enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Ol Tukai Amboseli, Kenya.

Day 14: Amboseli National Park
Further explore Amboseli with two game drives – your last chance to see the "Big 5" on this exciting safari adventure. In case they don’t all come out during your morning drive, look for the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino during your afternoon game drive.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Ol Tukai Amboseli, Kenya.

Day 15: Amboseli - Nairobi - Tour Ends
Return to Nairobi. An unforgettable and rewarding experience is in store for you this morning when you visit the students at Tenderfeet Education Center. Supported by the Collette Foundation, this school helps orphans and high-risk children in Riruta, a suburb of Nairobi. A day room has been reserved for you to freshen up and enjoy some leisure time. Your tour ends this evening in Nairobi with a late night flight to London or Amsterdam.
Today breakfast will be included.

Departure Dates: June 9, July 7, August 4, September 1, 15, 22, October 6, 27, November 3, 17.
2011 Dates: January 19, February 23, March 16, April 6

Your Package Includes:

• 13 Nights accommodations (including 2 nights at the Mt. Kenya Safari Club, once William Holden’s private retreat)
• 13 Breakfasts
• 12 Lunches
• 12 Dinners (including a traditional dinner in the bush with Masai entertainment)
• 9 Game Drives
• Rothschild Giraffe Sanctuary
• Masai Mara Village
• Professional Tour Manager
• Per person: from 2,489.00*

*Note: Price is for land only. Call Notch Above for lowest air rates on the departure date of your choice.

Call for details on these exciting optional excursions:

• Amboseli Hot Air Balloon Safari $390
• Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Ride $425
• Sweetwaters Chimp Sanctuary $150
• Night Game Drive $50

Set off on your tour by exploring Beijing. Discover Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Cruise the Yangtze River downstream for three nights on this 18 day small group tour of China and Tibet. Travel aboard the "Sky Train" as it ascends through spectacular scenery to Lhasa, Tibet, the rooftop of the world. Visit the iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the Giant Panda Breeding Sanctuary. Enjoy a rickshaw tour of the capital and have lunch with a farming family at their home in a rural village, outside Xian.

Day 1: Overnight Flight
Travel from your departure city, ie Boston, or New York, on an overnight flight

Day 2: Arrive Beijing, China-Tour Begins
Embark on your journey through China and Tibet-beginning in China’s vibrant capital city; Beijing. Overnight at Traders Shangri La Hotel in Beijing’s leading business district.

Day 3: Beijing
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Your Tour Manager helps you discover the origin and history of the Chinese language including key words and phrases. Set off on a tour of Beijing, first visiting the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of 17 palaces and the Chinese Imperial Palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. This evening, savor a Peking duck dinner, a specialty of Beijing!
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Traders Shangri La Hotel.

Day 4: Beijing - Chongqing - Board Ship
Fly to Chongqing, your gateway to the Yangtze River. Visit the General Stillwell Museum, his headquarters during World War II and home of the Flying Tigers. Continue to Eling Park and take in grand views of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Board your ship for a three night downstream cruise along the Yangtze.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight on Century Cruises.

Day 5: Cruising - Chongqing - Fengdu
Cruise the mighty Yangtze River today en route to the city of Fengdu and visit the Snow Jade Cave, praised by China National Geographic as "the most beautiful cave in China."
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight on Century Cruises.

Day 6: Cruising - Three Gorges - Shennong Stream
Continue sailing today and enter the first of the Three Gorges – one of nature’s most extraordinary sculptures. Pass through Qutang and Wu Gorge and take an excursion through the Shennong Stream. Later, sail through the third gorge, Xiling Gorge. This evening, sail through the dam ship locks.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight on Century Cruises.

Day 7: Cruising - Three Gorges Dam Project - Disembark Ship - Xian
Enjoy a memorable visit to the twenty-five billion dollar Three Gorges Dam which, when completed, will be the world’s largest hydroelectric dam. Disembark in Yichang and head to Wuhan for your flight to Xian.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Grand New World Hotel.

Day 8: Xian
Visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the Wild Goose Pagoda. Step into the courtyards of Xian’s Islamic Mosque. Enjoy an Imperial lunch with twenty courses of dumplings! Explore the excavation site of more than 8,000 terracotta warriors and horses guarding the tomb of China's first emperor. Then, view the panoramic movie on the discovery of the site.
Today breakfast and lunch will be included. Overnight at Grand New World Hotel.

Day 9: Xian
Travel the countryside to visit a rural village. Meet locals and gain insight into their daily life during a tour of a local school, a visit to a cow farm, and lunch at a farmer's home. Later, climb to the top of the ancient city wall for stunning views of the city.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Grand New World Hotel

Day 10: Xian - Xining - Overnight Train
Begin today’s adventure with a flight to Xining, located on the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau. Visit the Ta'er Monastery, one of the six famous monasteries of the Gelugpa Sect (Yellow Hat Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism. Following dinner, board your overnight train for Lhasa – on the highest train in the world. You will experience a "local" train adventure where you will have the opportunity to interact with local Chinese and Tibetan people. Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Day 11: On Board Train - Lhasa, Tibet
Today enjoy the "Sky Train", a true engineering wonder, as it journeys past spectacular scenery of yaks grazing in emerald fields against a stunning backdrop of snowcapped mountains and brilliant blue skies. Three locomotives are required to pull the train over the 16,600 foot Tangula Pass en route to Lhasa. The train’s cabins feature two oxygen sources to help acclimate you to the altitude. Arrive in Tibet – the "roof of the world" – at approximately 10:30 PM and transfer to your hotel.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Sheraton Four Points Lhasa.

Day 12: Lhasa
This morning, tour the Jokhang Temple, built in 647 A. D. This temple is the spiritual center of Tibet and the holiest shrine for Tibetan pilgrims. Next, visit a local Tibetan family and gain insight into their simple way of life. Tour the Norbilinka Palace, known as the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. It was from this palace that the present Dalai Lama (XIV) escaped to India in 1959 from Chinese troops.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Sheraton Four Points Lhasa.

Day 13: Lhasa
Visit the Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, considered the greatest monumental structure in Tibet and chief residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India. Enjoy a leisurely tour of the Tibetan Museum. This afternoon, visit the Jatson Chumig School, founded to provide a positive environment for orphans and underprivileged children. Meet the children and learn about the organization and the involvement of the Collette Foundation.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Sheraton Four Points Lhasa.

Day 14: Lhasa - Chengdu
Enjoy a morning flight to Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan Province. After lunch, enjoy a stroll through a local market before an evening at leisure.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Kempinski Hotel Chengdu.

Day 15: Chengdu
See China’s national treasure up-close when you visit the Giant Panda Breeding Sanctuary to learn how these animals are being protected from extinction. The sanctuary is a simulated habitat; your guided tour allows you the rare opportunity to see the Giant Panda in its natural environment.
Today breakfast and lunch will be included. Overnight at Kempinski Hotel Chengdu.

Day 16: Chengdu - Beijing
A morning flight brings you back to Beijing. No visit to China would be complete without seeing the Great Wall. Walk along a portion of this 3,700-mile marvel at the Juyongguan section. Afterwards, walk along the Sacred Way located in the Valley of the Ming Tombs.
Today breakfast and lunch will be included. Overnight at Traders Shangri La Hotel.

Day 17: Beijing
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary. See locals doing their morning exercises; perhaps try your skill at Tai Chi ball. Participate in an interactive Chinese cooking class at the Jinshong Cooking School. Visit a local market, learn about traditional ingredients and the art of Chinese cuisine as you create a specialty with a local chef. Next, explore old Beijing during a rickshaw tour through narrow streets, stopping for lunch with a local family. Afterwards, meet a kite master and learn the art of this Chinese pastime. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included. Overnight at Traders Shangri La Hotel.

Day 18: Beijing - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Beijing. Prepare for your flights home.

Departure Dates: May 25, July 6, September 14, October 12

Your Package Includes:

• 16 Nights accommodations (including a 3-night downstream Yangtze River Cruise)
• 16 Breakfasts
• 15 Lunches (including a Zian family lunch)
• 12 Dinners
• Train to Tibet
• Giant Panda Breeding Sanctuary
• Kite Master
• Interactive cooking class
• TerraCotta Warriors
• Masai Mara Village
• Professional Tour Manager
• Per person: from 3,299.00*

*Note: Price is for land only. Call Notch Above for lowest air rates on the departure date of your choice

Call for details on this exciting optional excursion:

• Tang Dynasty Dinner and Show 75.00

Discover Italy’s hidden treasures on this Explorations tour where a smaller group setting allows for a more personalized travel experience. Ride the Centovalli Express Train from Lake Maggiore to the lakeside Swiss resort, Locarno. Explore the remote fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Spend four relaxing nights in Tuscany. Discover the hilltop town of San Gimignano. Experience medieval life at the Palazzo Davanzati. Visit a winery in the beautiful countryside. Wander a Florentine food market, and then join a chef to learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine. Conclude your tour with a two wonderful nights in Venice.

Day 1: Overnight Flight
Travel from your departure city, ie; Boston or New York, on an overnight flight

Day 2: Stresa, Italy - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in Stresa, on the shore of Lago Maggiore. Tonight you are transported by boat to your welcome dinner on Isola dei Pescatori, the most picturesque of the Borromean Islands - a wonderful opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.
Today dinner will be included. Overnight at the Regina Palace Hotel.

Day 3: Stresa - Lago Maggiore - Locarno, Switzerland - Stresa
This morning, travel on the breathtaking Centovalli Express Train. This train offers you an unforgettable journey across one of the most wild and scenic areas in the region, as you travel through the mountains and cross the border into Switzerland to visit the town of Locarno. This lovely old town has a glorious location… it is nestled on a sweeping curve of the bay and is known for having the most sunshine of anywhere in Switzerland! Return to Stresa, where the evening is at leisure to experience the best of this picturesque region. Explore the piazzas of the town center with flower-lined alleys, cobblestone streets, lakeside promenades and historic buildings boasting Renaissance facades.
Today breakfast will be included. Overnight at the Regina Palace Hotel.

Day 4: Stresa - Orta - Italian Riviera
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the Italian language you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Depart Italy’s lake region for one of the most picturesque spots of the Ligurian coast, Sestri Levante. En route, stop at Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden treasures. Upon arrival you will take a boat ride to Isola di San Giulio where you will walk the grounds of this gorgeous and still working convent. Take time to experience this enchanting lakeside resort with its many outdoor cafes and shops before continuing on to the Italian Riviera.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Grand Hotel dei Castelli.

Day 5: Italian Riviera - Portofino - Cinque Terre
This morning, head to the lovely seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure and join us on a scenic boat ride* to the glamorous town of Portofino. Known as a getaway for the wealthy, the town’s colorful harbor has fishing boats dotted amongst mega yachts against a backdrop of Cypress trees and pastel-colored buildings. Next, continue your travels to the lovely Cinque Terre. Board a train for a spectacular journey through the villages of Cinque Terre. This rugged coastal area is an Italian treasure with terraced vineyards and a nearly inaccessible string of fishing villages tucked between the mountains and the azure beauty of the Mediterranean. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring these magical villages at leisure.
Today breakfast will be included. Overnight at the Grand Hotel dei Castelli.

Day 6: Italian Riviera - Lucca - Cortona
Begin your journey with a drive to the city of Lucca, one of Tuscany’s hidden gems. Encircled by 16th century Renaissance walls originally built to defend the town, Lucca’s charming piazza is nestled in the center. Enjoy a walking tour with a local expert and visit the 14th century Cathedral of San Martino, Lucca’s medieval streets, Piazza S. Michele in Foro and Piazza Napoleone. Your day ends in the Etruscan town of Cortona, in a villa tucked away in the uniquely beautiful Tuscan countryside, where you will enjoy a relaxing four-night stay. This evening’s dinner will allow you to sample delicious Tuscan cuisine in one of medieval Cortona’s typical locandas.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Hotel Villa Aurea.

Day 7: Cortona - Florence - Cortona
Spend time exploring Florence, the cradle of Italy's Renaissance. Start your morning with a walk through the local market and learn about some of the fresh ingredients used in Tuscan recipes. Then, a walking tour highlights many of the city’s treasures, including the Academia and the Statue of the David, the Piazza del Duomo, center of religious life in medieval Florence, and the Piazza della Signoria with its many sculptures. Continue with a visit to the Church of Santa Croce, burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. Enjoy a typical Florentine lunch before returning to Cortona this afternoon.
Today breakfast and lunch will be included. Overnight at the Hotel Villa Aurea.

Day 8: Cortona - Siena - San Gimignano - Cortona
Today, travel to the rose-hued medieval city of Siena. Join a local expert for a walking tour through narrow Gothic streets and visit the dramatic cathedral. You will next arrive at the hilltop town of San Gimignano, punctuated by tall medieval towers, affording spectacular views of the Tuscan hills below.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Hotel Villa Aurea.

Day 9: Cortona - Tuscan Countryside - Cortona
Today you will visit a winery in the heart of Tuscany. Upon arrival, enjoy a visit to the wine cellar, family estate and beautiful grounds submersed in vineyards, olive groves and stunning views. Next, meet the winery’s own chef for a lesson on Tuscan cooking. Afterwards, enjoy your authentic Tuscan lunch, expertly paired with the wines produced on site. Upon your return to the villa this afternoon, you are at leisure to relax or perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll through the villa’s beautiful park or partake in one of their spa services.
Today breakfast and lunch will be included. Overnight at the Hotel Villa Aurea.

Day 10: Cortona - Bologna - Venice
En route to Venice, stop in Bologna, rich in history and culinary tradition and surrounded by hills. The center of this city is virtually untouched since the Renaissance. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic center, including its historic buildings and specialty food shops, where you may have the opportunity to sample some of their wares. Continue as your tour travels toward the truly unique city of Venice, built on 117 islands with 150 canals and 400 bridges.
Today breakfast will be included. Overnight at the Grand Hotel Dei Dogi

Day 11: Venice
This morning enjoy a boat trip** (weather permitting) to Murano Island for a fascinating glass-blowing demonstration. Return to charming St. Mark’s Square, the hub of Venetian city life. A local expert will take you on a walking tour featuring the Clock Tower with its famous Moors, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the legendary Bridge of Sighs. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of a marvelous trip to Italy. Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Grand Hotel Dei Dogi

Day 12: Venice - Depart for Home
Your tour ends today in Venice.
Today breakfast will be included.

Departure Dates: May 28, June 18, July 9, 23, August 20, Spetember 10, 11, 24, October 1, 15, 18, November 5
2011 Dates: March 11, April 8

Your Package Includes:

• 10 Nights accommodations (including 4 nights in a Tuscan villa)
• 10 Breakfast buffets
• 1 Lunch
• 6 Dinners
• Wine cellar tour and tasting
• Tuscan cooking lesson
• Professional Tour Manager
• Per person: from 2,799.00*

*Note: Price is for land only. Call Notch Above for lowest air rates on the departure date of your choice.

Call for details on this exciting optional excursion:

• Venetia Serenaded Gondola Cruise 70.00

Join us as we explore colorful markets, charming villages and landscapes that inspired master artists. A cheese tasting, a visit to a famed vineyard, and a scenic cruise past villas and gardens in Nice unveil the magic of the French Riviera. Enjoy a relaxed three-night stay in a restored farmhouse in Avignon and soak up the essence of Provence. Embrace local culture at a tour and tasting at one of the region’s famed vineyards. A hands-on cooking demonstration reveals the secrets of authentic Provencal cooking.

Day 1: Overnight Flight
Travel from your departure city, ie: Boston or New York on an overnight flight.

Day 2: Aix-en-Provence - Tour Begins
Bienvenue! Your tour begins in historic Aix-en-Provence. This evening, meet your co-travelers for a welcome dinner at a popular country restaurant.
Today dinner will be included. Overnight at the Best Western Hotel le Galice.

Day 3: Aix-en-Provence - Avignon
Embark on a morning walking tour through "the footsteps of Cezanne" – featuring the markets and monuments of Aix-en-Provence’s old city. In the afternoon, embrace the local culture when you visit the famed vineyards of Provence, where you’ll be treated to a tour and tasting at a local winery. Then, journey to the "Papal City" of Avignon to a "Provençal Mas" – a cozy, restored farmhouse that is your home for the next three nights.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Hotel la Magnaneraie.

Day 4: Avignon
Discover the gems of Avignon, the city the Popes moved to in 1309. For 70 years, Avignon was the center of European religion and art. A walking tour through this walled city reveals its fascinating history and culture. Stroll the local markets of the city, stopping at a specialty cheese shop to sample some of their artisanal cheeses. Partake in a truly French tradition as you choose between hundreds of varieties of fine cheeses. Your afternoon is at leisure to explore the quaint streets, cafés and specialty boutiques that comprise Avignon’s charm. This evening, meet the Chef at one of Avignon’s most popular restaurants for a cooking demonstration that teaches you about authentic Provençal cooking. Relax and enjoy the sumptuous dinner you have created, expertly paired with regional wines.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Hotel la Magnaneraie.

Day 5: Avignon
With a day at leisure, embark on your own explorations, soaking up the essence of Provence and admiring its beautiful backdrop and rich culture. Or, partake in an optional excursion to the nearby towns of Arles and the Camargue region – which includes lunch in a rustic farmhouse.
Today breakfast will be included. Overnight at the Hotel la Magnaneraie.

Day 6: Avignon - L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue - Gordes - St. Rémy-de-Provence
Start your day with a visit to a colorful open air market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, filled with traditional crafts, hand-made ceramics, linens, and local foods like sausages, breads and a vibrant bounty of fresh grown produce. Then, visit the Lavender Museum and learn about this precious plant, its unique distillation process and its various uses throughout history. Make your way through the Lubéron National Park before arriving in the picturesque hilltop village of Gordes. Gaze upon the 16th century château and cobblestone streets that paint Gordes’ canvas. Finally, arrive in St. Rémy-de-Provence – the inspiringly beautiful town where Van Gogh painted "Starry Night."
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Hostellerie Du Vallon De Valrugues.

Day 7: St. Rémy-de-Provence - Les Baux-de-Provence - St. Rémy-de-Provence
Embark on an excursion this morning, traveling scenic country roads that take you to the hilltop town of Les-Baux-de-Provence. Its winding medieval streets reveal stunning views of the Alpilles mountain chain. Next, visit a local olive oil estate for a comprehensive explanation of the process of making olive oil, followed by a tasting. This eventful day concludes with a visit to the historic Roman monuments of St. Rémy-de-Provence. From the gates to the mausoleum, these monuments depict stories of Roman warriors, fallen heroes and legendary empires.
Today breakfast will be included. Overnight at the Hostellerie Du Vallon De Valrugues.

Day 8: St. Rémy-de-Provence - Train des Pignes - Nice
This morning, drive towards the Haute-Provence to the little town of Digne-les-Bains and climb aboard a panoramic train called the "Train des Pignes." A picturesque journey past rushing rivers, plunging mountain valleys and charming Provençal towns brings you to Nice’s city center – the world-renowned French Riviera. Your evening is at leisure to enjoy a meal in one of the wonderful restaurants of this coastal city.
Today breakfast will be included. Overnight at the Hotel Ellington.

Day 9: Nice
The scent of fragrant flowers fills the air during a morning stroll through the local Flower Market. Admire the narrow streets and cheerful colors of Nice’s old town. Embark on a scenic boat ride that whisks you along the breathtaking coast; sail past the Promenade des Anglais, posh villas, lush gardens and rocky cliffs set against the azure waters of the famous Cote d’Azur. Visit the Marc Chagall Museum which houses religious lithographs and articles that depict family life in the 19th century. During a free afternoon, wander Nice’s bustling streets and sample outdoor cafés, boutiques and museums and soak in the atmosphere. This evening, join your fellow travelers at a local restaurant to bid farewell to Provence and the French Riviera.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included. Overnight at the Hotel Ellington.

Day 10: Nice - Tour Ends
Today breakfast will be included. Prepare for your return flight.

Departure Dates: September 18, October 23, November 6
2011 Dates: March 12, April 9

Your Package Includes:

• 8 Nights accommodations
• 8 Breakfasts
• 5 Dinners
• Avignon walking tour
• Winery tour and tasting
• Cheese tasting
• Olive oil tasting
• Lavender Museum
• Nice Flower Market
• French Cooking demonstration
• Professional Tour Manager
• Per person: from 2,599.00*

*Note: Price is for land only. Call Notch Above for lowest air rates on the departure date of your choice.

Call for details on this exciting optional excursion:

• Provencal Arles and the Wild Camargue 120.00