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Enjoy Sorrento! (Italy)

The New York State Museum presents… Enjoy Sorrento

Overlooking one of the most beautiful bays in the Amalfi Coast!
November 11 - 17, 2010

Stay in Just 1 Hotel Entire Time! This trip includes:

  • Roundtrip air from the JFK to Italy with AlItalia
  • 5 nts accommodations in first class hotel
  • Continental breakfast daily, except day of arrival
  • 1 Farewell Dinner
  • Orientation Walking tour of Sorrento
  • Roundtrip transfers by deluxe coach
  • $25 Donation to the NYS Museum

Learn More at Celtic Tours

Download Itinerary & Application (PDF)
November 11 - 17, 2010

Day 01
Thurs.,
Nov. 11th

U.S. – Rome - Naples. Depart the U.S. for our overnight flight to Italy. Dinner will be served on board.

Day 02
Fri.,
Nov. 12th

Rome – Naples – Sorrento. Morning arrival into Rome. We continue on a brief flight to Naples. We are met by our driver for transfer via motorcoach to our hotel in Sorrento, where we spend the next six days. Enjoy an orientation guided walking tour of Sorrento upon arrival with a visit to a Limoncello shop for a taste of this traditional liqueur. Dinner is on our own. Overnight in Sorrento.

Day 03
Sat.,
Nov. 13th

Sorrento. After breakfast at our hotel (included), the day is free to explore on our own. Sorrento is famous for its historical craft of marquetry and wood inlay. We may wish to visit the Palazzo Pomaranci and the Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea to see this marquetry and wood inlay. You may wish to see the 15th Century Duomo, the Cathedral of San Filippo and San Giacomo. See the bell tower with its majolica clock and antique columns to its right.

Optional Amalfi Coast ($124 per person).After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy panoramic views of the enchanting towns along the scenic Amalfi Coast. Visit Positano, known for its distinctive white Moorish homes, on this legendary road overlooking the Mediterranean, to reach the coastal town of Amalfi. Later, we travel to Ravello, an enchanting town high above the coast. Enjoy an orientation tour of the cities via motorcoach and foot, exploring the steep streets, narrow alleyways, sidewalk vendor stalls and boardwalk cafes. Return to our hotel in Sorrento for overnight.

Day 04
Sun.,
Nov. 14th

Sorrento. After breakfast at our hotel (included), the day is free to explore on our own. Today you may wish to visit seafront promenade in Sorrento. Across from San Francesco church, you will see the entrance to the Villa Comunale, which has a panoramic terrace. We may continue down the steep ramps to the Marina Piccola. One of Sorrento’s harbors. Marina Grande is a second harbor, which is lined with seaside restaurants and establishments. Overnight in Sorrento.

Optional Tour-Caserta ($125 per person). A morning guided tour of Caserta. This town is most famous for the Palace of Caserta, built for the 18th-century King Charles of Bourbon. Modeled after the Palace of Versailles in France, it is an extravagant and elegant example of Italian Baroque style. Stroll through the extensive grounds and gardens to admire the fountains and waterworks, such as the Fountain of Diana and Actaeon, with sculptures by Brunelli.

Day 05
Mon.,
Nov. 15th

Sorrento. After breakfast at our hotel (included), the day is free to explore on our own. Today you may wish to see another important church, the Basilica di Sant’Antonino, dedicated to St. Anthony. Overnight in Sorrento. Overnight in Sorrento.

Optional Pompeii – Naples ($75 per person). This morning we depart for a half day guided visit to Pompeii with a visit to the archaeological excavations (admission included). Enjoy a guided visit of the best preserved Roman city ruins, including the Temples of Apollo, Jupiter and the Forum. Vesuvius erupted and buried the city under a blanket of ash six meters deep. Enjoy an afternoon panoramic tour of Naples that includes Santa Lucia, Castel dell’ Ovo, the French fortress, Piazza Plebiscito and the Royal Palace, before returning to your hotel in Sorrento.

Day 06
Tues.,
Nov. 16th

Sorrento. After breakfast at our hotel (included), the day is free to explore on our own. You may wish to visit Via Correale, off Piazza Tasso, one of the few streets that preserves the flavor of 19th century Sorrento and the Museo Correale, once the home of an old aristocratic family. Another little town to explore is Sant’Agnello with its stately villas and many elegant hotels. This evening enjoy an authentic Farewell Dinner at our hotel with the group. Share the stories of our week’s fun adventures. Overnight in Sorrento.

Optional Lemon Farm Tour ($81 per person). Today we will visit a picturesque lemon farm in the countryside, where they make their own Lemoncello and authentic mozzarella cheese. Enjoy a chance to taste both - a fun experience!

Day 07
Wed.,
Nov. 17th

Sorrento – Naples – Rome – USA: After breakfast, transfer to the airport for our return flight to U.S. We will take the memories of the best of Italy. “Arrivederci,” a nostalgic goodbye with a promise to return.

Tuscan Villa Stay (Italy)

Offered by the New York State Museum
A SPECIAL SALE • GREAT VALUE • Stay in Just 1 Place Entire Time!

TOUR INCLUDES:

  • Roundtrip air from JFK Airport to Italy
  • 5 Nights Accommodation at the Villa Casagrande in Figline Valdarno
  • Continental buffet breakfast daily, except day of arrival
  • Deluxe motorcoach transportation, including airport transfers in Italy
  • One (1) Welcome dinner at the hotel with wine & water
  • One (1) Farewell dinner at the villa
  • Roundtrip transfers by deluxe coach
  • $25 Donation to the NYS Museum
    NOTE: Gratuity to the driver, tour escort and local guides are not included.

Download Itinerary & Application (PDF)
March 4 – 10, 2011

Day 1
Friday
March 4

JFK – FLORENCE: Depart JFK’s International Airport on your overnight flight to Florence. Dinner served shortly after take off. Sit back, relax and enjoy the flight!

Day 2
Saturday
March 5

TUSCANY: Morning arrival into Florence Airport, where you are met by your driver. As you continue your journey, you view the scenic Tuscan hills. You arrive at your villa hotel in Figline Valdarno, just outside of Florence, in the early afternoon. Enjoy free time to get acquainted with this lovely villa and neat town. Enjoy a welcome “Tuscan Dinner” with the group at the villa (wine & water included). Buon Appetito! Overnight at the Villa Casagrande in Figline Valdarno.

Day 3
Sunday
March 6

VILLA CASAGRANDE: After breakfast at the Villa, enjoy a day at leisure. Visit the exercise room, take a walk or visit the wine cellar and the museum at the Villa which has been host to popes and princes. (You can easily reachFlorence or many quaint towns, such as Arezzo by train during your free time. Trains are frequently available from the Figline Valdarno railway station. To Florence takes about 30 minutes). Dinner on your own. Overnight at the Villa.

OPTIONAL VOLTERRA ($133 per person). After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy an optional excursion to Volterra, which still retains its medieval character, charm and atmosphere. Volterra is on a towering great bluff and is the highest in all of Tuscany. Its isolated position has impeded any progressive development. Its fortress-like town is known for the carving of translucent white alabaster that still flourishes today. You may recognize Volterra from the Twilight movie, New Moon. Enjoy a guided tour to familiarize yourself with this traditional town and free time to explore on your own.

Day 4
Monday
March 7

VILLA CASAGRANDE: After breakfast at the Villa, enjoy a day at leisure. You may ask about renting bikes or horseback riding or take a leisurely stroll to the square of Figline Valdarno. Dinner on your own. Overnight at the Villa.

OPTIONAL SAN GIMIGNANO – Tuscan Day Experience ($99 per person). This day consists of time to explore, shop, and enjoy the medieval walled city of San Gimignano, “the City of the Beautiful Towers.” The towered silhouette of San Gimignano rising from the hills of the Upper Elsa Valley is famous all over the world.Off to visit the Florence American Cemetery and Memorial, a step back to the history of WWII. It is a very beautiful and moving sight as you walk the grounds and buildings. From the Cemetery you end your day’s outing in the Tuscan countryside at a superior local cellar, wine-tasting extraordinaire! Vernaccia wine, recently awarded the D.O.C.G., the highest acknowledgement and guarantee for quality in Italian oenology. Return in the evening to the Villa Casagrande.

Day 5
Tuesday
March 8

VILLA CASAGRANDE: After breakfast at the Villa, once again enjoy a day at leisure in the heart of Tuscany. Dinner on your own. Overnight at the Villa.

OPTIONAL FLORENCE, GUIDED ($126 per person). After breakfast at the hotel, we journey to Florence. Stroll down cobblestone lanes, through majestic squares and across ancient bridges, pausing along the way to visit and learn about Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, the cathedral and Giotto’s bell tower and the Accademia (entrance fee and reservation included). Lunch is on your own. Florence offers the largest number of historical buildings and works of art in Italy, as well as several world-class museums. You might like to do a little leather, gold or clothing shopping near Ponte Vecchio. Dinner is on your own tonight. Overnight at the Villa Casagrande

Day 6
Wednesday
March 9

VILLA CASAGRANDE – FREE DAY: After breakfast at the hotelenjoy the day at your leisure. This evening enjoy an authentic Farewell Dinner at our villa with the group. Share the stories of our week’s fun adventures. Overnight at the Villa Casagrande.

OPTIONAL CORTONA ($107 per person). After breakfast at the hotel, we travel to Cortona, which sits on a mountainside above terraced olive groves. A medieval city with views stretching over the Chiana Valley to Umbrias Lake Trasimono. A “City of Art” and the setting for Frances Mayes’ book and movie Under the Tuscan Sun brought this town into the forefront. Enjoy a guided tour and free time to explore on your own. Return to the villa.

Day 7
Thursday
March 10

FIGLINE VALDARNO – FLORENCE – JFK: Early morning transfer to Florence Airport for your return flight home, taking with you the memories of the best of Italy. “Arrivederci” a nostalgic goodbye with a promise to return.

A Paris City Stay

Experience the magic of Paris: the city of lights, love, art, and French cuisine! Unpack once and choose your own adventure as you explore Paris on your own!

Learn More at Celtic Tours

Download Itinerary & Application (PDF)
February 1 – 8, 2011

Day 01
Tuesday,
Feb. 1th

USA – Paris:Depart JFK on your overnight flight to Paris with Aer Lingus. Dinner is served aboard, shortly after take off.

Day 02
Wednesday,
Feb. 2nd

Paris: You will be greeted by a Celtic Tours representative, who will direct you to your awaiting motorcoach for transfer to your Paris hotel, your home for the next 6 nights. The Métro is an easy, fast, and cost-effective way to see Paris. After check-in in the afternoon, the remainder of the day is free to rest or explore Paris on your own. Dinner is on your own.

Day 03
Thursday,
Feb. 3rd

Paris: Paris: Free day in Paris. Dinner is on your own.

OPTIONAL Paris City Tour:After breakfast, you may wish to take part in an optional ½ day tour of Paris ($50 p.p. additional). Get acquainted with this city, known for such classic sights as the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre, Notre-Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Coeur, and all those atmospheric cafes. Don't forget the parks, and squares, the Champs-Elysées and other grand boulevards, or even the river Seine and its quays. The remainder of the day is free to explore Paris on your own.

Day 04
Friday,
Feb. 4th

Paris: Free day in Paris. Dinner is on your own. You may wish to go out in style and treat yourself to the Moulin Rouge dinner show (must arrange on your own) with its renowned show girls at the home of the French cancan.

OPTIONAL Versailles: You may wish to join an option ½ day excursion to Versailles ($96 p.p. additional, where you visit the Versailles Palace, which has out dazzled every other kingly residence in Europe, a symbol of a regime obsessed with prestige.

Day 05
Saturday, Feb. 5th

Paris: Paris: Free day in Paris. Dinner is on your own.

OPTIONAL Normandy:You may wish to join an optional full day tour to Normandy ($205 p.p. additional). The invasion of June 6, 1944, ravaged much of Normandy. The largest armada ever assembled was responsible for regaining control of Europe from the Nazis. Today, many visitors come to
Normandy to see the D-day beachheads. Today we visit the D-day museum. See the famous Omaha Beach and visit the US Military Cemetery. Farther along the coast you'll see the jagged lime cliffs of the Pointe du Hoc. The scars of war are more visible here than at any other point along the beach. Return to Paris in the late afternoon.

Day 06
Sunday,
Feb. 6th

Paris: Free day in Paris. Museums in Paris are free on the first Sunday of the month. Ask your concierge what hidden delights Paris has to offer or chose a day enjoying the art collection at Musée du Louvre or Musée d'Orsay. The Picasso Museum is in a huge 17th century mansion, tucked away on a little backstreet in the 3rd arrondissement. Some say this museum is one of the best (and leastcrowded!) museums in Paris. Dinner is on your own.

Day 07
Monday,
Feb. 7th

Paris: Free day in Paris. Dinner is on your own. Today visit one of the spots still on your list, or revisit a favorite before you leave.

Day 08
Tuesday,
Feb. 11th

Departure: After breakfast, with the help of an English-speaking assistant, depart for nearby Charles de Gaulle International Airport for check in for our flight back home.

Germany: A Trip to Fairy Tale Places

To Benefit Berks County Association of School Retiree. Hosted by Tom Schmoyer, President of BCAS; Escorted by Noreen Yost

Visit a part of Germany with its folkloric architecture where Grimm's fairy tales come to life!
GREAT VALUE • Stay in 1 Hotel Entire Time • Breakfast Every Morning
Space is limited & on a first come, first serve basis, so reserve your seat now!

Download Itinerary & Application (PDF)
March 24 -31, 2011

Day 1
Thursday
March 24

NEWARK - FRANKFURT: Depart Newark Airport on your overnight flight to Frankfurt, Germany. Dinner served shortly after take off. Sit back, relax and enjoy the flight!

Day 2
Friday
March 25

FRANKFURT - ROTHENBURG: Morning arrival into Frankfurt Airport, where we are met by our airport assistant, who will lead us to our awaiting bus for transfer to Rothenburg. We travel south to Rothenburg, part of the romantic road. Afternoon check-in. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax or explore this charming town on our own. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner with the group. Overnight in Rothenburg.

Day 3
Saturday
March 26

ROTHENBURG: After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a walking tour of Rothenburg, best-preserved medieval city in Europe. Inside those undamaged 13th-century city walls is a medieval town seemingly untouched by the passage of time. Dinner is on our own tonight. Overnight in Rothenburg.

Day 4
Sunday
March 27

ROTHENBURG: After breakfast, the day is free to explore on our own. Overnight in Rothenburg.

OPTIONAL FULL DAY EXCURSION TO NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE (Disney's Cinderella Castle): $128 per person (based on 20). Enjoy a full day excursion where we have a guided walking tour, bus transportation, and entrance to Neuschwanstein Castle to see the castle that inspired Disney's Cinderella Castle. Neuschwanstein was King Ludwig II's fairy-tale castle. Construction lasted 17 years.Return to Rothenburg for overnight.

Day 5
Monday
March 28

ROTHENBURG – REGENSBURG – ROTHENBURG: After breakfast, we embark on a full day excursion to Regensburg with English-speaking guide for approximately 2 hours. Regensburg is one of Germany's best preserved cities, relatively undamaged by World War II bombings. Catch a glimpse of the Danube River. We visit St. Peters Dom (inside visit not allowed). Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Regensburg. Return to Rothenburg for overnight. Dinner is on our own.

Day 6
Tuesday
March 29

ROTHENBURG: After breakfast, the day is free to explore on our own. Overnight in Rothenburg.

OPTIONAL FULL DAY EXCURSION TOMUNICH: $111 per person (based on 20). Enjoy a full day excursion, half day tour with English-speaking guide (for approximately 3 hours) to Munich. Visits to Amalienburg, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Cathedral Frauenkirche. Lunch on our own. Return to Rothenburg for overnight.

Day 7
Wednesday
March 30

ROTHENBURG – DINKELSBUHL – ROTHENBURG: After breakfast, depart on a full day excursion to Dinkelsbuhl. Still surrounded by its medieval walls and towers, Dinkelsbühl is straight out of a Brothers Grimm story, even down to the gingerbread, one of the town's main products. There will be an English-speaking guide for approximately 2 hours. Afternoon free at leisure. Enjoy a farewell dinner together. Share the stories of our week's fun adventures. Overnight in Rothenburg.

Day 8
Thursday
March 31

ROTHENBURG – FRANKFURT – USA: Early morning transfer to Frankfurt Airport for your return flight home, taking with you the memories of a wonderful week in the fairy tale land of Germany.