The Globus family of brands has expertly designed and unveiled more than 30 “low season” vacations, including two NEW itineraries with Globus and Monograms, offering Americans a plethora of opportunities to travel abroad at unbeatable prices this fall, winter and next spring.

In addition to its already robust selection of holiday tours and cruises and winter vacation packages across Europe, Globus is introducing a NEW, nine-day Christmas in Paris & New Year’s Eve in London itinerary, priced from $1,599. And, capitalizing on America’s interest in Ireland, Monograms is providing travelers a NEW four-day Dublin Getaway, priced from $517.

“Winter is a great time for Americans to make European travel dreams come true,” said Steve Born, vice president of marketing for the Globus family of brands. “They can take a vacation at a reduced price, while avoiding the crowds that converge during the summer travel months.”

From holiday cruises on the Main and Danube rivers to tours across Europe ranging from seven to 29 days as well as 10 independent vacation packages, the Globus family of brands’ “European Winter Vacations” offer unparalleled savings to fit any travel style.

“Not only are we giving travelers a large selection of tours, cruises and independent vacations from which to choose a phenomenal European vacation,” said Born. “We are offering them savings of up to 40 percent on air and 15 percent on land, compared to peak season pricing.”

Even more chances to save are available for those who plan ahead and book early: Travelers can save $200 per couple on Globus family of brands’ 2010/11 European Winter vacations when booking air-inclusive with Alitalia by July 27, 2010.* Sample fares start as low as $415/person.

• Roman Holiday (1953) | Rome
• Much Ado About Nothing (1993) Villa Vignamaggio near Greve
• Only You (1004) | Rome, Tuscany, Venice & Positano
• The English Patient (1996) | Siena, Pienza & Montepulciano
• Life Is Beautiful (1998) Arezzo
• Tea with Mussolini (1999) | Florence, San Gimignano
• Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) | Venice, Anzio, Palermo, Naples, Ischia & Positano
• The Italian Job (2003) | Italian Alps, Turin
• The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003) | Rome, Lazio
• Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) | Florence, Arezzo, Montepulciano, Cortona, Campania and Positano
• Ocean's Twelve (2004) | Rome, Lake Como & Sicily
• Visions of Italy (2005) | PBS Program takes you all over Italy.
• When in Rome (2010) (also shot in the U.S.)
• Letters to Juliet (2010) | Verona, Tuscany

Did we miss any of your favorites?

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until April 30, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

Europe, Britain, & Eastern Mediterranean Tours

 

Tour Name	Promotion Codeˆ	Tour Duration	Departure Date	Brochure Price WAS Twin Share PP	Price NOW Twin Share PP	Savings per person
Grand Tour of Italy & Sicily	HOT147	16	21 May 2010	$4175	$3550	$625
Italian Escapade	HOT148	14	17 May 2010	$3650	$3099	$551
Italian Elegance	HOT149	13	27 May 2010	$3435	$3090	$345
Select France	HOT150	11	4 Jun 2010	$2399	$2150	$249
Country Roads of France	HOT151	17	4 Jun 2010	$4250	$3825	$425
European Grandeur	HOT152	31	5 Jun 2010	$7375	$6635	$740
Britain & Ireland Explorer	HOT153	17	3 Jun 2010	$3265	$2935	$330
Select Spain & Portugal	HOT154	14	2 Jun 2010	$2090	$1875	$215
The Bohemian	HOT155	10	11 Jun 2010	$2135	$1920	$215
Best of Morocco	HOT156	10	3 Jun 2010	$1625	$1460	$165
Euopean Spotlight	HOT157	14	25 Jun 2010	$3425	$3075	$350
Country Roads of Bavaria, Switzerland & Austria	HOT158	13	18 Jun 2010	$2925	$2630	$295

USA & Canada Tours

Tour Name	Promotion Codeˆ	Tour Duration	Departure Date	Brochure Price WAS Twin Share PP	Price NOW Twin Share PP	Savings per person
Capitals of Eastern Canada	WOW70	7	23 May 2010	$1525	$1370	$155
Enchanting Canyonlands	WOW71	7	26 Jun 2010	$1650	$1485	$165
Enchanting Canyonlands	WOW72	7	17 Jul 2010	$1650	$1485	$165
Wonders of the American West	WOW73	10	26 Jun 2010	$2325	$2090	$235

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until April 15, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

Europe, Britain, & Eastern Mediterranean Tours

Tour Name	Promotion Code	Departure Date	Brochure Price WAS Twin Share PP	Price NOW Twin Share PP	Savings per person
Best of Ireland & Scotland	HOT137	22 May 2010	$2695	$2665	$300
Select Spain & Portugal	HOT138	19 May 2010	$2090	$1875	$215
Select Imperial Capitals	HOT139	21 May 2010	$1625	$1460	$165
Grand Tour of Scandinavia	HOT140	22 May 2010	$5015	$4499	$516
Best of Spain & Portugal	HOT141	28 May 2010	$3199	$2875	$324
Grand Tour of Italy & Sicily	HOT142	21 May 2010	$4175	$3750	$425
Italian Escapade	HOT143	17 May 2010	$3650	$3285	$365
Best of Germany	HOT144	28 May 2010	$1935	$1740	$195
Highlights of Europe	HOT145	14 May 2010	$4225	$3799	$426
Oberammergau Passion Play Option - Over 10% OFF! Country Roads of Bavaria, Switzerland & Austria	HOT146	15 May 2010	$3899	$3799	$100

We welcome you to research European Travel Package by destination, or by clicking on our preferred travel partners. You’ll find a selection of tours, cruises, vacations and rail packages.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

Atlas Cruises & Tours| Christmas Market Tours | England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | Luxury Tour |Oberammergau | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

Where ever you plan to travel in Europe, the Globus family of brands can take you there. Choose from Globus tours, Monograms independent travel packages or Avalon river cruises through Europe.

Europe Vacations

Italy Vacations
Step back in time and explore a country rich with historical treasures. From magnificent churches and marble monuments to medieval piazzas with awe-inspiring fountains, you’ll feel an ambiance reminiscent of times past while in Italy.
Italy Vacations

England, Scotland & Ireland Vacations
For a travel experience befitting royalty, there’s truly nothing better than a vacation to Britain & Ireland. Whether you’re off checking out a a 2,000-year-old castle or riding through the city streets on a double-decker bus, you’ll be left with a lifetime of incredible memories.
England, Scotland & Ireland Vacations

France Vacations
Ascend to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy spectacular views of Paris or visit the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice. France is filled with the world’s most eclectic collection of artwork, mouthwatering bakers’ delights, and abundantly colorful flower and fruit markets.
France Vacations

Germany, Austria & Switzerland Vacations
Enjoy the essence of Central Europe as you experience Germany, Austria & Switzerland. Enjoy beautiful architecture, interesting museums, a tasty beer garden and, of course, the opera and classical music concerts.
Germany, Austria & Switzerland Vacations

Housing the designer’s sketches, photographs, patents, lasts of celebrity feet, and some 10,000 shoes designed and created by Ferragamo, the museum is a testament to his amazing impact on the worlds of fashion and design.  Ferragamo’s legacy has been carried forward and expanded by his children and grandchildren, and today the Ferragamo name adorns shoes, leather goods, fragrances, eyewear, watches and more.

Tauck guests will be hosted at the museum by Salvatore Ferragamo, grandson of the designer.  The 37-year-old Ferragamo manages the family’s 1,730 acre Il Borro estate in Tuscany and the production of its acclaimed Il Borro wines, which will be showcased in the wine tasting following the museum tour.  Dating back to 1760, the Il Borro estate was completely restored by the Ferragamo family after their purchase of it in 1993.  The Il Borro winery opened in 2007 and today produces a number of top quality wines featuring cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, sangiovese and petit verdot grapes.

The museum tour and wine tasting are featured on selected departures of Tauck’s "Classic Italy" tour through an exclusive partnership between Tauck and AuthentEscapes, which specializes in providing insider access to iconic figures in food, wine, sports, entertainment and global culture.  Besides Florence, Tauck’s 14-day "Classic Italy" itinerary (from $5,990 pp, double, plus air) also visits Venice, Cinque Terre, Assisi, Orvieto, Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast and Rome, where guests enjoy an exclusive, after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. 

The private Ferragamo experience is included at no extra charge on 13 departures of "Classic Italy;" June 30, July 14, August 4, September 6, 11, 20, 25 and 29, and October 4, 9, 13, 18 and 27

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until March 15, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

Italian Holiday and London to Rome Highlights from $1639 - and all in the Spanish language!

Discover the tours people love most!

A Trafalgar tour will take you right to the heart of the destination, include all the must-see sights as well as provide ample time for exploring independently. All of the arrangements are taken care of – hotel accommodations, transportation and many meals.  We’ve also planned some incredible surprises – hidden treasures, local specialties, and some delightful exclusive experiences.

August 13 – August 20, 2010 only!
Italian Holiday tour:  Visit Rome, Florence, Lake Garda, Venice and more.

Traveling with Trafalgar in the spring offers you many advantages. Cities and attractions are less crowded, the temperatures are cooler, and the sights and landscapes of Europe take on a new radiance. Soak up the festive spirit of Europe when traveling on Trafalgar's highly inclusive, First Class itineraries which offer you the greatest value this spring! If you have a passion for picturesque scenery, amazing architecture, delicious regional cuisine, fantastic local shopping or simply exploring new and exciting destinations, Trafalgar has your perfect vacation experience.

Here are some "Last Minute Deals" on selected Spring departures available until February 28, 2010

The French Escapade April 1, 2010 starting from $1,639*
Britain & Ireland Experience April 3, 2010 starting from $1,845*
Traditional Europe May 15, 2010 starting from $3,935*
Italy & Sicily March 12, 2010 starting at $1,395*

The Trafalgar Difference

• Savings of up to 35% - when compared to traveling in summer
• First Class Itineraries - designed to truly highlight each destination
• Accommodations - high standards assured by Trafalgar's Quality Control Team
• Meals - a true taste of Europe, with breakfast daily, Highlight and Farewell Dinners, Local Specialties and Be My Guest highlights
• Tour Directors - their expertise and enthusiasm bring destinations to life
• Sightseeing - the perfect balance of fantastic inclusions and free time, plus unique Hidden Treasures
• Transportation - travel in complete safety and comfort, chauffeur-driven by professionals in the latest model coaches

Europe, Britain, & Eastern Mediterranean Tours

Conditions:

• *Prices are per person, twin share, land only. Single supplements apply. Deposit required within 7 days of booking or if made within 45 days, full payment is required.
• Offer applies to new bookings made from 15 February – 28 February 2010 only, is subject to availability and can be withdrawn or amended at any time without notice. 
• ^Please quote promotional code when booking with your favorite Travel Agent.
  

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until February 28, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

Planning a trip to Italy this year?

Consider this amazing Globus tour: Italian Treasures.

This Italy vacation includes Rome, Florence, and Venice, as well as overnight stays in Lucca and St. Francis’ Assisi. All major sights are included, such as St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum in Rome, Michelangelo’s David in Florence, St. Mark’s, Doges’ Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs in Venice (which you enter by private boat), and St. Francis’ Basilica and St. Clare’s Church in Assisi. Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome, a stop at Pisa’s Leaning Tower, walking tours of Lucca and Siena, and time in picturesque San Gimignano, at Verrazzano Castle to learn about the famous Chianti wine, and in Romeo & Juliet’s Verona. Also travel along the stunning coastline to Ravenna, admire the mosaics in the 6th-century Basilica of St. Apollinaris in Classe, and stop in Orvieto for a funicular ride right through its ramparts!

Learn more about Globus tours or browse more Italy tours

Almost 1000 years after the fall of the ancient Roman Empire, Italy again (this time with Florence leading the way) became the cultural capital of the world, the Renascence (not just an art movement, but an intellectual awakening, an explosion of science, technology and discovery that changed the way the people of Europe operated and saw themselves) flourished here.

Florence is still today the undisputed capital of Renascence Art, fueled by the Medici Family in the late 1400’s and into the 1600’s the city was host to Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello and a who’s who of art science and philosophy legends . People still visit the city today to witness for themselves the beauty and perfection in painting, sculpture and architecture that was created during this time. Some of the cities most famous and visited museums include the Accademia and the Uffuzi.

Rome was never far behind Florence in this cultural awakening and is home to the Vatican City, home to the Vatican Museums and the roof of the Sistine Chapel so famously painted by Michelangelo as well as his ‘Last Judgment’. People also flock to Rome from every corner of the globe for religious pilgrimages, to St. Peters Basilica, home of the Catholic Church and the Vatican City, located in the heart of Rome.

Venice also provides a totally unique experience with it’s canals, bridges, gondolas, the Basilica of St Mark and the square, reputed to be one of the most beautiful and romantic in the world.

Start by making things easier – If your budget is a little flexible, the best practice is have as few connections as possible. Book direct or non-stop flights whenever you can.

Make sure you arrive at the airport early so you are not stressed while finding parking, checking in and getting through security. Realize that traveling with young children always takes longer to walk through the airport than you expect.

Have your children carry their own bags with snack and entertainment items. Even toddlers can wear backpacks or use rolling bags and they like the responsibility. You may also want to carry on any favorite stuffed animal to avoid a problem if the checked bag gets lost.

Bring a favorite pillow to help your children sleep on the flight and on while on vacation. Airlines no longer supply everyone with pillows on flights.

Have some healthy snacks packed. Don't rely on the schedule of the flight attendants for food. Bring some paper cups and buy a bottle of water after you get through security. Some people take an empty water bottle and fill it after getting through security, saving money and the wait in line to purchase water.

Bring your own entertainment. Do not count on the movie selection being appropriate for children or being something that can hold their attention. Here are some suggestions for the different age groups:

• Older Babies and Toddlers - nested containers, sets of things to put into containers, Busy Boxes with hand activities and moving parts, board books, blanket, stuffed animal
• Pre-Schoolers - books, stickers and activity or coloring books, crayons, lap-sized wipe-off easels and pens, post-it notes, scotch tape, magnetic letters or dolls & metal tin
• Young School Age - books, comics, stickers and activity or coloring books, small magnetic puzzles, travel-size Etch-a-Sketch, Go-Fish cards, books on tape, miniature worlds: little houses with figures, hand-sized playsets, LeapFrog Leapster- fun games and assisted reading
• Older School Age - books, activity kits, blank paper for drawing, Hangman, or Xs & Os, deck of cards, travel size board games, Mastermind: a great game for age seven and up, cribbage set, small Lego sets, hand-held toys with the sound turned off, electronics (iPods, games, DVD players, used with headphones). If you do not have a DVD player, they can be rented at many airports.

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until February 15, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process.

Europe & Britain Tours
 

USA & Canada Tours

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

Big Savings. Definite Departures. Book Now!

Europe & Britain Tours

USA & Canada Tours

One of the most beautifuk ports on the Italian Riviera. Portofino has hosted both real and Hollywood royalty. Not only did the Edward VII and Wallis Simpson choose this idyllic spot for their honeymoon, Richard Burton once proposed to Elizabeth Taylor here. For a spectacular bird's-eye view of the harbor, visit the Castello Brown Museum.

General Travel Tips

• Make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your date of travel. Some countries insist that your passport be valid for at least a six-month time period.
• Place an envelope in one of your checked bags containing copies of your passport, birth certificate and a back up form of photo I.D. in case your passport is lost or stolen.
• Place a copy of the detailed itinerary of your trip inside each piece of luggage. If your luggage is lost, this will help the airline locate you while you're traveling.
• If you are on Medicare and traveling outside the United States, be aware that Medicare does not cover any of your medical bills abroad. It's a good idea to get a travel protection policy that will cover these costs.
• Plan at least a day or two after your return home before scheduling any commitments; you may be tired after your journey.

Don't Forget

• Stow away some antibacterial wipes-they're a convenient way to clean up on the go.
• Bring a voltage converter with you, along with an adapter (to fit electrical plugs into foreign outlets). Note that some adapter kits don't include converters.
• Pack an extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts in case they are lost or broken.
• Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are a must. Never pack new shoes.
• Wrap a long strip of duct tape around a pencil and bring it along for the ride. Duct tape is the magic fix for everything from torn suitcases to a broken sandal strap.

Click here for over 50 posts with helpful travel tips and advice.

Select Imperial Capitals –10 days from $1625 per person, twin share, land only. Leave the tour in Vienna on Day 7 and save up to $190 per person off the twin-share price. Discover the grandeur of spectacular Imperial Cities such as Heroes’ Square and Citadel of bohemian Budapest; the sights of Ring Road in regal Vienna and the cobbled streets of picturesque Prague with visits to charming villages such as Szentendre and Cesky Krumlov included on traveling days. In the Imperial cities themselves choose between independent exploration or Select Experiences such as an in-depth tours, drives and guided walks. Clients can arrive into Budapest on day one or two or can skip Budapest and arrive into Vienna on day three. They can also elect to depart from Vienna or Prague on any of the days they are in those cities.

Insight has long been the first choice for experiencing Europe in style. With Select, independent-minded travelers can now enjoy hassle-free holidays of comfort and quality with ultimate flexibility to tailor journey from how to spend their day to the duration of their stay. For each step along the way, Insight’s knowledgeable tour directors are on hand to act as a ‘personal concierge’, ensuring first class service all the way.

Do you have amazing pictures of Italy you would like to share?

Fodor’s has partnered with Princess Cruises for the “Show us Your Italy Photo Contest.”

First-time visitors to Italy come in search of la dolce vita (the good life) and they quickly learn just how easy it is to escape completely. A romantic gondola ride in Venice. A walk in Caeser’s footsteps in ancient Rome. A meal of fresh tortellini in Bologna. There are thousands of discoveries to be made and places to explore, which provide travelers with plenty of reasons to visit again and again. Share the moments and photos that made your trip to Italy special for a chance to have your photograph featured in Fodor’s Italy and receive a suite of Fodor’s latest full-color guides (ARV = $130).

Runner-up winners will have their photographs featured in a slideshow on Fodors.com and will win two (2) Fodor’s guides of their choice (ARV = $45). In addition, if any photographs are selected to be included in a future Fodor’s guide, those entrants will also receive a complimentary copy of the guide in which their photo appears.

Enter today and tell friends and family who have traveled to Italy to enter as well. The “Show Us Your Italy” contest closes November 26, 2009.

Looking to travel to Italy in 2010, visit our Italy website for an amazing selection of Italy tours, Italy cruises and Italy rail packages.

Europe is a place of wonders, an intriguing past and timeless elegance.  Here, watch history come live as you explore the destinations of your choice.  Saver new foods and discover new passions.  Shop for exquisite fashion and wander bustling markets for the best bargains.  Let some of the most renowned theatres in the world excite and entertain you.  Discover lands where fairytale castles exist and real kings, queens and princess rule.  Europe is charming and positively magical, alluring, enchanting, enthralling and it's where Harry Potter, Shakespeare , Sherlock Holmes and "Angles & Demons" come to life.

Europe is defined in its thriving cities, breathtaking countryside, quaint pubs and the world's finest museums.  A day in Europe could be a day of sightseeing, romance or just a long afternoon sitting at a sidewalk cafe.

We welcome you to research your next European tour by destination, or by clicking on our preferred travel partners.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:
Atlas Cruises & Tours| Christmas Market Tours | England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | Luxury Tour |Oberammergau | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:
Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours | General Tours | Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

The Tower of Pisa, one of Europe's most famous towers and designed by Bonanno Pisano, is a freestanding bell tower, of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa. The Tower of Pisa was a work of art, performed in three stages over a period of about 177 years. It stands 183.27 feet tall from the ground on the shortest side and 186.02 on the highest side. 

Construction of the first floor of the white marble campanile began on August 9, 1173. This first floor is surrounded by pillars with classical capitals, leaning against blind arches.

The tower began to sink after construction progressed to the third floor in 1178. This was due to a mere three-meter foundation, set in weak, unstable subsoil and the construction was halted, allowing time for the underlying soil to settle, otherwise, the tower would almost certainly have toppled. 

The construction resumed in 1272. Trying to compensate for the tilt the engineers built higher floors with one side taller than the other. This made the tower begin to lean in the other direction. Because of this, the tower is actually curved. Construction was halted again in 1284.

The seventh floor was completed in 1319. The bell-chamber was not finally added until 1372. There are seven bells in the tower, one for each note of the tuned musical scale. 

After a phase (1990-2001) of structural strengthening, the tower is currently undergoing gradual surface restoration, in order to repair visual damage, mostly corrosion and blackening.

After 2001, the tower reopened to the public. However, the number of visitors is strictly controlled via compulsory 35- to 40-minute guided tours where you are able to climb to the top. There are 294 stairs with no hand rails and the walls are worn smooth. The stairs are slippery and were built in a very tight spiral. You may think it was harder getting down than going up.

When we travel, my husband and I enjoy the half day city sightseeing tours to get acquainted with a destination.  However, rather than choose another tour for the afternoon, we enjoy getting to know the ambiance, local shops and people.   After a visit to the Academy to see the famous Michaelangelo’s David as well as the artist’s numerous unfinished and fascinating sculptures, we went to the Arno River.   The only bridge to survive World War II was the Ponte Vecchio and it is a must!  It’s a short walk actross the Arno with lovely little open air jewelers and other shops and when you arrive at the south end of the bridge, there are charming outdoor dining venues with incredible pasta.   After relaxing over a leisurely lunch, walk just a few steps to the fabulous Pitti Palace.  This was originally owned by a Pitti but is famous as the residence of the infamous Medici family.  It’s a small art museum and the Boboli Gardens behind the museum are also well worth a look.   Besides lush plantings, there are waterfalls, reflecting pools, sculptures and an amazing view of Florence itself as it is up on a hill.  Great photo ops…

Written by: Laura U
laura@atlastravelweb.com

Europe & Britain Tours

Some typical dishes:

• Cured meats and hams – A platter of sliced Parma Ham, prosciutto cotto (cooked ham), mortadella, wild boar salami, which is often presented as hors d'oeuvres.
• Crostini – Toasted bite-sized pieces of bread topped with olive, anchovy, tomato, liver or mushroom paste.
• Tortellini – Egg pasta stuffed with meat or cheese, served either in a broth or topped with a rich tomato sauce.
• Rigatoni al ragu – Typical dish from Bologna, the pasta is covered with a rich tomato sauce cooked with minced beef.
• Cannelloni – Large stuffed pasta tubes filled with cheese and spinach or minced beef, coated with tomato and cheese sauce.
• Bistecca alla Fiorentina – Very large tender steak grilled over open fire, generally seasoned only with a little salt and olive oil.
• Cinghiale – Wild boar, generally grilled, typical of the Maremma area in Tuscany.
• Panforte – Rich nut cake spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
• Ricciarelli – These biscuits are made from almond flour, orange peel and honey.
• Cantucci – Sweet nut biscuits generally served at the end of a meal with Vin Santo, a dessert wine.

Wines: Everywhere you look in central Italy you can find vineyards. The best come from the hills of South-eastern Tuscany, like the red Chianti Classico, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano or the Brunello di Montalcino wines. Lovely white wines that generally accompany a traditional dinner are the Tuscan Vernaccia di Gimignano, a fresh, dry Orvieto Classico from Umbria, or a crisp particular Verdicchio from the Marche region.

Milan is not typically included in the shorter tours, as they focus on Rome, Florence and Venice. The shortest trip we offer including Milan is the 9 day Northern Italy's Highlights Cinque Terre. It is a unique itinerary in which not only do you begin and end in Milan, but you visit Parma, Lucca, Santa Margherita (to see Portofino,) and Turin.

Europe, Britain, & Eastern Mediterranean Tours

Tour Name	Promotion Code	Departure Date	Brochure Price WAS Twin Share PP	Price NOW Twin Share PP	Savings per couple
Mediterranean Fables A Grade	HOT57	20 Oct	$2450	$2199	$502
Mediterranean Fables B Grade	HOT58	20 Oct	$2150	$1935	$430
Mediterranean Fables C Grade	HOT59	20 Oct	$1899	$1699	$400
Winter Explorer	HOT60	29 Oct	$2699	$2425	$548
Amazing Morocco	HOT61	31 Oct	$1250	$1125	$250
Easy Pace France	HOT62	02 Oct	$3199	$2875	$648
Italian Escapade	HOT63	06 Oct	$3799	$3415	$768
Wonders of Turkey	HOT64	29 Oct	$1350	$1215	$270
Elegance of the Nile	HOT65	08 Oct	$4350	$3915	$870
Italian Intermezzo	HOT66	02 Oct	$2335	$2099	$472

How to enter: Any qualified person can enter the drawing which will be conducted between January 1 & December 31, 2009. All qualified entries will be treated equally. All information provided to Gate 1 Travel in connection with this drawing shall be treated by Gate 1 Travel in accordance with Gate 1 Travel's privacy policy, located at privacy policy, and shall be the sole and exclusive property of Gate 1 Travel.

BURBANK, Calif., Aug. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether floating down the Colorado River or climbing the Great Wall of China, families participating in Adventures by Disney vacations will connect with the world - and with each other - during a variety of guided group travel experiences spanning six continents in 2010. Created specifically for families, Adventures by Disney itineraries lead guests through the history and culture of each destination while providing unique experiences and exclusive access along the way.

Entering its fifth year, Adventures by Disney designs tours with the family in mind and provides educationally-enriched experiences so even younger travelers understand, appreciate and have fun in their new surroundings. These hassle-free vacations, rooted in the service and quality of family travel leader Disney, provide distinctive opportunities and special touches to make memories that last a lifetime.

"We are able to offer vacation experiences to some of the most fascinating places on earth, literally bringing history to life for our guests," said Don Gross, Vice President, Adventures by Disney. "Each itinerary is carefully planned, creating a vacation that includes the most iconic and must-see sites as well as off-the-beaten path excursions. In fact, guests often tell us the hardest part about the trip is choosing the adventure."

The Disney Difference

From snorkeling with sea turtles in the Galapagos to discovering Europe's classic history, each itinerary is as matchless as its surroundings. Yet one aspect holds true for every trip: the special touches that are collectively called "the Disney difference" . . .

Adventure Guide: Part storyteller, ambassador, concierge and role model, Adventures by Disney's highly-trained Adventure Guides are the friendly hosts and travel specialists who lead guests on every trip. With two guides assigned for every group (of up to 40 people), travelers receive individual attention to ensure a fun and enriching vacation.

Junior Adventurers: Young travelers are transformed into Junior Adventurers - seeing, hearing and tasting things that they might otherwise not have experienced. The immersive activities created just for kids allow young travelers to learn and have fun in places like museums that aren't always as entertaining for the younger set. For example, at the Louvre in Paris, the Junior Adventurers play an Art Detective game throughout the museum with their Adventure Guides, while adults take a privately guided tour with an art historian. In addition, the Adventure Guides are expert storytellers and are trained to create fun and unique, locally-based experiences for the kids. On almost every departure, there is also a Junior Adventurers night, in which the kids have a special evening experience with their Guides, while the adults get a quiet evening on their own at the resort.

Local Experts: An authentic Tuscan chef, a naturalist from Costa Rica, a Chinese tai chi master - these local experts share a passion; they live and breathe the local history and culture of their destination. They are an integral part of every Adventures by Disney vacation. They join guests to share their stories and provide an "insider's" perspective to each destination.

VIP Access: Travelers vacationing with Adventures by Disney receive VIP experiences that are practically impossible to schedule on their own. Special entry to otherwise crowded sites, unique accommodations (like castles in Ireland and Germany, a dude Ranch in Yellowstone and at the base of a live, active volcano in Costa Rica. Guests also get backstage access of celebrated performances like "The Lion King" in London. These are just a few of the exceptional moments woven through each itinerary, promising expedited service and a broader knowledge of each destination.

Adventures by Disney's 2010 destinations include 19 global itineraries:

Asia & Pacific

• Enchanted China - China: Beijing, Chengdu, Guilin, Shanghai and Hong Kong
• Safari to South Africa - South Africa: Cape Town, The Garden Route and Kapama Game Reserve
• Discovery Down Under - Australia: North Queensland, Ayers Rock and Sydney
  

British Isles & Europe

• Cities of Knights and Lights - England and France: London and Paris
• The Emerald Isle - Ireland: Dublin, Killarney and Shannon
• Once Upon a Fairytale - Germany: Heidelberg, Trendelburg, Rothenburg and Munich
• Alpine Magic - Italy and Switzerland: Stresa, Zermatt and Lake Lucerne
• Viva Italia - Italy: Rome, Tuscany and Venice
• Bella Italia - Central Italy: Sorrento and Florence
  

Latin America

• Path to Pura Vida - Costa Rica: San Jose, Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park
• Treasures of the Galapagos - Ecuador and Galapagos Islands
• Sacred Valleys and Incan Cities - Peru: Lima, Sacred Valley and Cusco
  

North America

• Spirit of America -Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Pa., and Williamsburg, Va.
• Quest for the West - Wyoming: Jackson Hole, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
• Southwest Splendors - Arizona and Utah: Sedona, Grand Canyon and Moab
• Backstage Magic - Southern California: Hollywood and Disneyland Resort
• Golden Path to Yosemite - Northern California: Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and San Francisco
• Taming the Last Frontier - Alaska: Fairbanks, Denali National Park and Kenai Peninsula
• Rocky Trails and Mountie Tales - Montana and Canada: Glacier National Park and Banff National Park

For more on Adventure by Disney, visit www.luxurytour.com

 
Europe & Britain Tours

USA & Canada Tours

USA, CANADA & MEXICO TOURS

Tour Name	Promotion Code ^	Departure Date	Brochure Price WAS Twin Share PP	Price NOW Twin Share PP	Savings per couple
American Parks Trail	WOW51	18 Sep	$2199	$1979	$440
America’s Magnificent National Parks	WOW52	12 Sep	$3699	$3329	$740
Best of California	WOW53	9 Oct	$2299	$2049	$500
Enchanting Canyonlands	WOW54	12 Sep	$1650	$1479	$342
Enchanting Canyonlands	WOW55	20 Oct	$1620	$1459	$322
Great Western American Adventure	WOW56	2 Oct	$3765	$3385	$760
Wonders of the American West	WOW57	26 Sep	$2420	$2175	$490
Best of Eastern USA & Canada	WOW58	11 Oct	$3750	$3375	$750
New England's Spectacular Fall Foliage	WOW59	05 Oct	$2170	$1960	$420
New England's Spectacular Fall Foliage	WOW60	14 Oct	$2170	$1960	$420

These unique vacations are from 2 to 7 nights in length and if one of the guests is an eater but not a cook you can opt out of the lessons (and not be charged for that portion.) If you don't find a region that you are interested in on our site, please call as we can normalize arrange any date as long as there are 2 or more people in your group.

We work with only a handful of specialty partners who provide personal, well run and complete cooking school vacation. Everything you need is included. The staff is unfailingly gracious, friendly and helpful. You really get the feel of "living" in the Italy, not just being a tourist.

Written by Lois G
sslois@shipshop.com

We invite you to experience the traditional magic of Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean in the months of November through April. This is the perfect time of year to vsit. The climate is surprisingly often mild and the cities are less crowded than in the summer months, and prices are 30 to 40% lower than traveling during peak season.

Shop in the glittering Christmas Markets and Bazaars. Explore and soak up the atmosphere of Old World Charm. Our tours are priced much lower than during the summer season and the airlines are advertising some of the lowest airfares of the year. Now is the time to make your reservations.

Italy is still the leader of destinations and Spain is not far behind, but don’t discount Egypt. Egypt is an awesome destination for the winter season. Temperatures are more bearable than the hot, hot summer season. For Christmas Markets, Vienna Prague and Budapest are still most popular. Wherever you choose, you will not be disappointed in our winter seasons magical tour destinations.

Written by: C. Kennedy
kennedy@atlastravelweb.com

Some typical dishes:

• Maccheroni con le Sarde – Typical Sicilian pasta dish with sardines, pine nuts, raisins and bread crumbs.
• Frutti di Mare – Sauteed mussels and cockles. Char-grilled lobster, prawns or scampi and squid generally dressed with olive oil and some lemon juice.
• Pizza Napoletana – Soft crust pizza with tomato, garlic, anchovies and oregano. This is only one of many ways of topping pizza.
• Pesce Spada – A favorite in Sicily, swordfish steak is generally grilled, accompanied by eggplants cooked in a sweet and sour tomato sauce (Caponata).
• Cassata Siciliana – Ricotta cheese and candied fruit covered by marzipan.
• Torrone – A sweet nougat with nuts and almonds, often served during the Christmas season.
• Cannoli alla Siciliana – Tube-shaped biscuits stuffed with ricotta cheese, chocolate chips and candied fruit.
• Cheese – Battipaglia, near Naples, is home to the world famous Mozzarella di Bufala, made with buffalo milk and often served with sliced tomatoes and basil leaves  – the classic Caprese Salad. Scamorza, generally served grilled with Parma Ham, which is typical of Basilicata. Provolone, either mild or piquant, and ricotta cheese, used both for pasta dishes and for desserts.

Wines: Since the bronze age, wine has been produced in the south of Italy. The biggest regional producer of wine in Italy is Puglia, and some of the best Italian wines come from Sicily. Marsala wine – it takes its name from its city – has been in production since the 18th century, when it became famous thanks to Admiral Nelson, who ordered huge quantities of it after the Battle of the Nile.

Florence, a Renaissance city in the heart of Tuscany, has some of Italy's best museums, beautiful cathedrals and churches, and interesting streets and squares with elegant buildings and shops.

The most visited square is Piazza della Signoria, the heart of the historic center and a free open-air sculpture exhibit. Loggia della Signoria holds some important statues such as Michelangelo's David.

Florence's most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore. The exterior, made of green, pink, and white marble, has several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside, Brunelleschi's Dome is a masterpiece of construction. Buy a ticket to climb the 463 steps to the top of the bell tower. The panoramic view of the city is amazing. Please note, is not air-conditioned on the way up, so peak summer months can get very hot, so make sure and bring water.

The Baptistery of John the Baptist, from the 11th century, is one of Florence's oldest buildings. Its exterior is made of green and white marble and has three sets of amazing bronze doors. Inside, you can see some mosaics and a marble pavement of the zodiac.

The Galleria degli Uffizi holds the world's most important collection of Renaissance art but it's also Italy's most crowded museum. You can buy tickets ahead to avoid long lines. Better yet, if you purchase a shore excursion or are on one of our escorted tours, your group will have priority access. The Uffizi holds thousands of paintings from medieval to modern times and many antique sculptures, illuminations, and tapestries.

Florence's Galleria dell' Academia holds important paintings and sculptures from the 13th-16th centuries. Michelangelo's David, probably the most famous sculpture in the world, is in the Galleria dell' Academia as well as other sculptures by Michelangelo. You'll also find an interesting collection of musical instruments, from the Medici family.

Florence has some of the finest shopping in Europe. Leather goods, paper goods, and jewelry as well as nice souvenirs and art productions. Florence also has a number of open air markets selling food, clothing, and antiques.

Whether it's for a day, or an extended vacation, Florence Italy is a wonderful travel destination.

Europe & Britain Tours

USA & Canada Tours

TOUR NAME	DEPARTING	WAS	NOW	SAVINGS	PROMO CODE
Tastes and Sounds of the South	Sep 10	$1,865	$1,675	$190	LMDUSA41
Hawaii Four Island Adventure - First Class	Sep 11	$3,570	$3,210	$360	LMDUSA42F
	Sep 25	$3,570	$3,210	$360	LMDUSA42F
Hawaii Four Island Adventure - Moderate	Sep 11	$3,380	$3,020	$360	LMDUSA42M
	Sep 25	$3,380	$3,020	$360	LMDUSA42M
Hawaii Four Island Adventure - Premier	Sep 11	$4,135	$3,715	$420	LMDUSA42P
	Sep 25	$4,135	$3,715	$420	LMDUSA42P
Historic Highlights	Sep 19	$1,675	$1,499	$176	LMDUSA43
Scenic Parks Explorer	Sep 20	$2,765	$2,485	$280	LMDUSA44
Autumn Colors	Sep 21	$1,750	$1,575	$175	LMDUSA45
Best of Canada's West	Sep 22	$3,320	$2,980	$340	LMDUSA46
Treasures of the Yucatan	Sep 30	$1,865	$1,675	$190	LMDUSA47
Best of Eastern Canada	Oct 2	$2,365	$2,125	$240	LMDUSA48
Western Discoverer	Oct 3	$2,599	$2,339	$260	LMDUSA49
The Californian	Oct 3	$1,875	$1,685	$190	LMDUSA50

Contact 800-942-3301

This year, Perillo released a 9 day deluxe Sicily trip. Deluxe hotels include three nights in Palermo at the Grand Hotel Wagner and two nights in Taormina at the Grand Timeo. A hearty buffet breakfast starts every day, and evenings bring sumptuous, wine-fueled meals. Accompanied by engaging and knowledgeable tour directors, guests will enjoy day trips to Sicily's fascinating sites

Highlights include a wine cellar visit in Marsala, where guests will taste the fortified wine first introduced in 1796. Also on the itinerary is the ancient Greek city of Selinus, an acropolis of majestic temples overlooking the sea. On the road to Taormina, the tour will stop at the aristocratic fourth century Villa Romana del Casales in Piazza Armerina, famed for its intricate mosaics. A morning trip from Taormina will reveal another World Heritage Site, Noto, built in the Baroque period.

Each departure is limited to 40 guests traveling in deluxe motor coaches with extra legroom. Tour price covers airport transfers in Italy, hearty daily buffet breakfast, five dinners and one lunch including wine and beer, Marsala wine tasting, baggage handling, hotel service charges and taxes, professional tour directors and local guides. Plenty of free time is allowed for independent explorations, shopping and relaxing. The Deluxe Sicily Tour is offered at $2,690 per person double occupancy for three departures in January, with the top price of $3,290 offered in April.

For this and other off-season Italy tour, click here

Are you longing to trace your family tree and visit the birthplace of your ancestors in Italy? We can make your desires happen. Think about a cruise or a tour that departs from or ends in Rome and add a few days to the start or end. We can take you to remote villages anywhere in Italy by private car or train if train access is available. You would be surprised at the local train service Italy offers. Here in the United States we should take lessons from the European train network. Trains leave on time and take you to the most out of the way places.

If you prefer a private car and driver, we have English speaking drivers with very comfortable sedans ready to show you Italy like you’ve never seen before. We can reserve hotel rooms and independent tours at any time during the year. We have recommendations for local restaurants and places of interest.

With our connections, we can call ourselves Italy Specialists and we are here to help you plan your next trip to Italy.

The national language evolved from Tuscan dialect, thanks to Tuscan writers like Dante, who wrote the Divine Comedy in the vernacular of his birthplace, Florence.

Florence was the most active center of the Renaissance, which flourished, at least in part, through the patronage of the Medici dynasty. Every eminent artistic figure from Giotto onwards – Masaccio, Brunelleschi, Alberti, Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo is represented in Tuscany, in an unrivaled gathering of churches, galleries, museums.

Tuscany is filled with treasures of architecture, paintings, and sculptures that are renowned worldwide.

Siena is one of the great medieval cities of Europe, almost perfectly preserved, and with superb works of art in its religious and secular buildings. Its beautiful Campo – the central, scallop-shaped market square – is the scene of Tuscany's most unmissable festival, the Palio, which sees bareback horse riders racing around the narrow cobblestone streets.

It’s the brightest display of pageantry this side of Rome.

Other major cities, Pisa and Lucca, have their splendors, too – Pisa its Leaning Tower, Lucca a string of Romanesque churches. To the west and south of Siena are dozens of small hilltowns that, for many, epitomize the region – tourism has yet to undermine their vibrant local characters.

Q.  I'm confused about luggage, specifically carry on. Is my purse considered a carry on item? How about my husband's camera case? My husband wants to bring his computer, it is slightly over the 12x11x6 Is this a problem?

A.  #1.  A purse or camera case is not considered a carry on. You can still have a separate carry-on bag.

#2.  As far as your husband's computer, carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation. If it is a very minimal difference, (1 inch,) then it should still fit in the overhead without a problem, but these measurements are given to ensure you will not have any issue while touring.

Services offered include services of 24/7 agent for any last minutes changes, pre-trip travel advice such as what vaccines are required, embassy contacts, weather and currency information.  They also offer assistance for last minute changes, such as cancelled or delayed flights, making hotel reservations or ground transportation reservations. Benefits include coverage in the event of cruise line, airline or tour operator default (financial default non applicable to all suppliers) Coverage for sickness, injury or death of immediate family member. Terrorist incident that results in loss of life or major damage to property, by any person

With a good policy, you receive 24 hours assistance replacing lost or stolen documents such as visas, passports or tickets. Cash advance for travel or medical emergencies. They can also help you locate English speaking medical specialists, facilities and assistance with medical evacuations anywhere in the world.

They will provide you with baggage and personal effects loss coverage, baggage delay coverage and luggage tracing services. They have a bilingual staff for telephone interpretation for medical or legal emergencies.

If you purchase your travel insurance within 15 days of making your initial deposit your coverage will include pre-existing conditions which applies to the first $25,000 of trip cost.

Whether a child gets the flu, or a close family member has a medical emergency, travel protection has a plan that will protect you before or during your vacation. The right kind of insurance is essential. It will provide you with peace of mind, medical evacuation in case of an emergency, baggage coverage, flight delay and flight cancellation coverage.

In addition to these services some insurance policies also provide a concierge service which is available to assist you with restaurant reservations, event tickets, tee time reservations and floral services.

This is only a brief description of some of the benefits and travel services provided. All policies and coverage may vary, and may not be available in all states. There are also expanded coverage plans that offer business related covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and other that let you cancel for any reason.

At times it is best to purchase the insurance with the tour operator or cruise line as part of your package, where on other occasions you can save money and get better coverage medical and evacuation coverage. An experience agent can explain your options to that you can purchase the best policy for your individual needs.

Good travel insurance isn't always expensive. We have negotiated excellent policies exclusive to Atlas, where rather than paying by age, which can add up for seniors, everyone is charged a flat amount base on the cost of the trip.

Some typical dishes:

• Carciofi Fritti – Artichokes dipped in batter and deep fried in oil.
• Fiori di zucca – Zucchini flowers stuffed with mozzarella cheese and anchovies, dipped in batter and fried.
• Suppli di riso – Rice croquettes with mozzarella filling, covered in bread crumbs and fried.
• Filetti di Baccala – Fried battered cod fillets, one of the main dishes in the Roman Jewish cuisine, like the fried artichokes.
• Gnocchi alla Romana – Semolina dumplings grilled with grated cheese and melted butter.
• Bucatini all'Amatriciana – Spaghetti style pasta with a rich tomato, onion and bacon sauce, and served with grated pecorino.
• Spaghetti alla Carbonara – This creamy pasta dish is made with fresh eggs, crispy bacon, parmesan cheese and grated black pepper.
• Saltimbocca alla Romana – Veal slices skewered with ham and sage leaves.
• Coda alla Vaccianara – Braised oxtail cooked in a spiced tomato sauce, typical of Rome.
• Torta alla Ricotta – Cheesecake filled with ricotta, lemon and candied fruit.

Wines: The Romans began wine-producing over 2,000 years ago on the same hills that still surround the city of Rome. Roman wines are all made from the same variety of grape, the Trebbiano, so most local wines, from the Frascati to the Colli Albani or Marino are white, and fairly similar in taste. Local red is rather rare; Romans drink reds from other parts of the country. A meal is often accompanied not by wine but a chilled beer, generally a Moretti or a Nastro Azzurro, light Italian lagers.

The island is relatively free of large cities or heavy industry, and its beaches are some of the cleanest in Italy and mostly uncrowded, except during peak season. But Sardinia offers plenty besides sun and sea.

Although not known for its cultural riches, the island does hold some surprises, remains of the various civilizations that passed through here.

The island was ravaged by a succession of invaders over the centuries, each of them leaving some imprint behind: Roman and Carthaginian ruins, Genoan fortresses, a string of elegant Pisan churches with some impressive Gothic and Spanish Baroque architecture.

Perhaps most striking of all, however, are the remnants of Sardinia's only significant native culture. The Nuraghic civilization, named after the 7000-odd nuraghi that they left behind, was unique to Sardinia.

Their mysterious, stone-built constructions are often in isolated places, but there are a few to be seen in the museums of Càgliari and Sassari.

The capital is Càgliari. With good accommodation and restaurants, it makes a useful base for exploring the southern third of the island. The Costa Smeralda is Sardinia's best-known resort area and lives up to its reputation for opulence. 

Alghero, on the western shore, has a Spanish ambience, a legacy of long years in which the town was a Catalan colony, and a wholly different feel from the rest of the island.

Inland, Nuoro has impressive literary credentials and a good ethnographical museum. As the biggest town in Sardinia's interior, it also makes a useful base for visiting some of the more remote mountain areas, in particular the Gennargentu range, which covers the heart of the island. This is where you can find what remains of the island's traditional culture, best embodied in the numerous village festivals.

These select departures are only available until 15 July, 2009. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience the history of Europe’s cites or North America's wide open spaces this summer, all with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and now great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process.

Europe & Britain Tours
 

USA & Canada Tours

Contact 1-800-942-331

Conditions: For new bookings only. Book between July 1 and July 15, 2009. Subject to availability. Full payment due at time of booking (within 45 days of departure). This offer is combinable with all applicable Trafalgar discounts.

• Pantheon
• Roman Forum
• Palatine Hill
• Colosseum
• Circus Maximus
• Baths of Caracalla and Diocletian
• Excavated churches, temples and obelisks 

While today’s visitors to Italy can still taste that distant past, it is the later epochs of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance that have enriched this land with its greatest treasures.

A GREAT VALUE FOR ALL SEASONS

• Fewer Crowds and Great Savings: Save up to 35% when compared to summer travel, plus Trafalgar always saves you up to 40% off the cost of traveling on your own.
• First Class Itineraries: Expertly designed, authentically local European vacations featuring exclusive Be My Guest dining highlights, special Family Experiences departures and the personal concierge services of Trafalgar's professional Tour Directors.

Book your Fall, Winter & Spring European vacation today!  Offer expires July 31, 2009!

Save $200 per couple on select 2009/2010 Globus European Low Season vacations.*

'Tis the season to enjoy Europe for less with Globus. The winter months are the perfect time to travel to Europe. Not only are there fewer crowds and lower travel prices (up to 25% less than peak season!), but you'll be able to get a glimpse of European culture that you can't always see during the summer months. This winter, fulfill your travel dreams without emptying your pockets.

European Winter Sampler
12 days from $2,169 land only+

British Winter Sampler
6 days from $749 land only+

French Winter Sampler
8 days from $1,419 land only+

Winter Taste of Italy
7 days from $1,379 land only+

Itinerary:

Venice, Italy, Dubrovnik, Croatia, Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Santorini, Greece, Naples/Capri, Italy, Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Florence/Pisa(Livorno),italy, Nice (Villefranche), France, Barcelona, Spain

Before You Go

• Secure Your Home: Cancel all newspapers, pay bills and consider what to do about the mail. You can ask your Post Office to hold it while you’re away, or get someone to look after your house.  Put some lights and a radio or TV on a timer. If applicable, park a car in your driveway.
• Be prepared:  Bring an emergency contact list, including the telephone numbers of your insurance people, credit card issuers, and home numbers of close relatives or friends, in case of an emergency.
• Back up important information: Copy or scan your travel documents – passport, travelers, identity and vaccination card and credit cards – front and back. Make two sets of copies, leave one at home or with a trusted person, and store the second in a secret place in your suitcase. If your wallet is lost or stolen, you will have all the information and phone numbers you need. If you choose to scan your documents, send them to your email address. In case of a problem, you can access them from any business center or cybercafe in the world.
• If you have a black or blue suitcase, you may want to wrap brightly colored electrical tape or ribbons around the handles of check luggage to make it easy to identify, OR use colored luggage tags.
• Just in case your luggage is lost, make sure you have your name, address and phone number on each piece, so that the airline can contact you. We suggest using a work address rathern than home whenever possible.
• Medications: Remember, all medications and vitamins must be in their original containers when traveling. You can ask your pharmacist to label small bottles with just enough medication in for your trip. Always carry these in your carry-on. Also, take a few days extra supply, in case you are delayed coming back.

Useful Items When Traveling

• Sun glasses
• Pen & small notepad
• Small retractable umbrella
• Sun block
• Chapstick
• Package of wipes or bottle of hand sanitzer
• Plastic bags. Take various size zip-lock bags – the heavier duty the better. They are great for packing things that might leak, like shampoo and lotions, and come in handy again for dirty clothes, the beach, etc.
• Camera with extra film or memory cards
• Chargers for any electronics you may be bringing (such as Ipod, camera, cell phone, labtops, etc.)
• Small bag packed into your suitcase. This can be used to carry souvenirs.
• Book or magazine
  

Many clients wonder what the differences are when traveling with a budget, first class or deluxe tour operator. As we have discussed in previous posts, a lot has to do with the type of accommodations used, the location of the hotels, the number of people on the tour and how much is included in the price (i.e. sightseeing, meals, etc.)

Today our focus is to explain the difference in meals.  In most cases, on a budget tour you will receive continental breakfast. This is a basic breakfast of usually consisting of cereals, pastries, juice and coffee. Once you take a first class tour and above, breakfast is normally buffet. This offers the widest choices, quickest service and as much or as little food as you desire.

Budget tours rarely include dinners, and when they do, it is normally in the hotel. First class tour operators offer a combination of both hotel dinners and some dining at local restaurants. However, there is usually a limited menu. It includes 3 to 5 courses with a more limited choice of appetizer, entrees and desserts. We are not suggesting the food is bad, on the contrary, frequently the limited menu includes the chef's freshest market specials of the day and takes less time to serve.

Dining is a delightful and integral part of the travel experience when traveling abroad. Deluxe and luxury operators select restaurants that offer a true taste of each region you visit, and offer full choice of menu to include a starter course (hot & cold appetizer, soup or salad,) main course, dessert and beverage. You’ll savor a delectable assortment of classic dishes and regional specialties. Many meals include wine with dinner and at times entertainment.

Regardless of which tour you book, gratuities to the wait staff are included. For lunches and evenings that meals are not included, the knowledgeable tour directors can assist you in finding dining options based on your the type of food you want to have and your budget.

Here is a video of Italy reviewing Globus' various travel options to this amazing country.

We also invite you to visit our Flickr account where you can find numerous photos of some of our favorite places in Italy: Sorrento, Amalfi Coast, Florence and Pisa.

Speak with an Italy travel specialist to help you select the best Italy trip for your next vacation.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a site that holds a list of outstanding cultural or natural universal value such as, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It could be a monument, building, mountain, forest, lake, desert, complex or city.

So how is a site selected?

Only countries that have signed the World Heritage Convention, pledging to protect their natural & cultural heritage can submit nominations for properties on their territory to be considered for inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

A nominated property is independently evaluated by several Advisory Boards. Once a site has been nominated & evaluated, the intergovernmental World Heritage Committee makes the final decision. One per year, the Committee meets to decide which sites will be inscribed on the World Heritage list.

The program aims to catalogue & preserve sites of outstanding importance, either cultural or natural, to the common heritage of humankind.

There are currently 878 World Heritage Sites in 145 countries. These include 679 cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed properties.

You may have visited a place in the U.S. already, not realizing it was a UNESCO site such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Yosemite Yellowstone or Olympic National Park.

Click here for a full list of site.

I have seen 20 sites in 9 countries, so only 858 to go, but I have to say that certain countries do not interest me AT ALL, so my goal would be to see at least half of the UNESCO sites while traveling the world.

How many UNESCO sites have you visited?

• Click here for Swine Flu talking points
• Click here for U.S. Travel's statement.
• Click here for the CDC website with more information on Swine Flu.

For all travelers, CDC recommends the following steps to help you stay healthy:

• Be sure you are up-to-date with all your routine vaccinations, including a seasonal influenza vaccine. The seasonal vaccine is not expected to offer protection against swine flu viruses, but it can protect against seasonal influenza viruses which may still be circulating in Mexico and the Southern Hemisphere.
• Pack a travel health kit that contains basic first aid and medical supplies. See Pack Smart in Your Survival Guide to Safe and Healthy Travel for a list of what to include in your travel health kit.
• Identify the health-care resources in the area(s) you will be visiting.
• Check if your health insurance plan will cover you abroad.  Consider purchasing additional insurance that covers medical evacuation in case you become sick.  For more information, see Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad from the U.S. Department of State.
• Remember that U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities do not have the legal authority, capability, and resources to evacuate or to give medications, vaccines or medical care to private U.S. citizens overseas.

Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of swine flu

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.  This removes germs from your skin and helps prevent diseases from spreading.
  • Use waterless alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a wastebasket.
• If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
• Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner (with at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.)
• It is important to follow the advice of local health and government authorities.  You may be asked to restrict your movement and stay in your home to contain the spread of swine flu.

If you have specific questions about the swine influenza cases see http://www.cdc.gov/contact/  or call 1-800-232-4636, which is 1-800-CDC-INFO.

To learn more about travel health, visit www.cdc.gov/travel.

More information will be provided as the situation develops. Please continue to check our website on a regular basis for updates.

Planning to travel in a group?

•  Four color tri-fold brochures or Four color flyers which can be used as 
   hand-outs or mail-outs to prospective participants
•  Power Point Presentations for group level meetings to explain the
   program to possible participants
•  Presentation by a member of our group department to local South
    Florida organizations

Should you bring a laptop while traveling?

This is a personal question that really depends on many things. What you’ll be doing, where you are going and how long will you be traveling?

I would like to share some guidelines that may help with your decision.

Reasons you should bring a laptop:

You can email your family and friends. Having your laptop, you can email your loved ones back home. This is something you could do at most internet cafes, which is a much nicer atmosphere than your hotel room. Most cafes around the world do offer free Wifi when you order something. Not all cafes have free Wifi; some do have a small charge. Newer cruise ships also offer Wifi, but make sure and purchase a package, as usage rates can be high.

You can download all your photos. You can download your digital photo right to your laptop. This will keep your camera’s memory stick free everyday. This will allow you to capture that favorite photo. If your memory stick is full, you would lose that favorite photo moment.

Keeping a journal of the cities you visited. Sometimes we see so much on our vacation that we tend to forget something. Keeping a journal along the way will allow you to never forget. It also allows you to post your travel blogs in writing.

Calling home for free (or very cheap) with Skype. For mere cents per minute you can make calls to landlines and cell phones from all over the world with Skype. It allows you to call from any web-enabled laptop. It’s a great way to keep in touch over the phone.

You can get lots of local information. Many laptops today have maps, directions, schedules and must-see sites for key cities. Maybe you would like get tickets to a play or need to get those directions to a restaurant. You can get all the information you need right from your laptop. Usually it’s much better than carrying around big guidebooks.

You can work. Even though we are on vacation, sometimes we still have our work on our minds. Maybe you have an on-line business and need to be kept informed. Having your laptop with you allows you to still work.  

Reasons you should keep your laptop home:

It could get lost, stolen or damaged. Where you are traveling really depends on the risks, which could range from mild to extreme. Getting your laptop insured by home or travel insurance is really not likely. Most insurance companies won’t cover you unless you pay a very high premium.

It’s extra weight to carry. If weight is an issue then you may want to keep it home. Depending on where you are traveling, you would need to bring your power adapter and any plug in devices to operate your laptop.

Surfing the internet. As we all know, the internet can be addicting. You could spend hours surfing the web, when we should be enjoying the experience of the city that you paid to see.

Checking in at the airport.  Our new airport regulations require us to open our carry bags to get through security. When you are traveling with your laptop, you will have to remove your laptop from the carry case for security inspection, so allow extra time for check-in.

You need to base your decision on where you are going. The more remote destinations you are traveling to, the less likely you will find a Wifi connection. Some remote islands will probably only have a dial up connection, which would probably be very slow.

The biggest consideration is whether you feel you actually need a laptop. Some people absolutely need to stay connected. If you decide to bring it, I would recommend a soft case to protect it. I would use a water-resistant case. Remember to never stow your computer in your luggage.

Contributed by: A Sternberg
angie@atlastravelweb.com

Featured Hotel partner: Hotel d'Inghilterra, Rome

• Daily buffet breakfast in the Café Romano
• Upgrade upon availability
• A bottle of selected Italian Prosecco upon arrival
• Book a minimum 4-night stay in a deluxe room and up and Ensemble guests will get a 3-course dinner for two with a selected bottle of wine

Some restrictions may apply, please call for details.

The story had a nice ending, as Mr. Elliott was able to get the client a full refund, but not all stories end this way, and clients lose thousands of dollars for not asking the right questions prior to making a reservation.

Be aware of penalties! At Atlas, when we book reservations for our clients, not only do we provide them with a confirmation, but also the Terms and Conditions for each supplier, as cancellation penalties vary for each company. At times, there are 3 to 5 pages of "conditions" for the client to read over, but all of this is done prior to booking the reservation, so you have no surprises down the road.

Furthermore as the article mentions, if there is any chance you may have to cancel your trip, a consolidator is not the way to go when booking airline tickets, as their penalties are usually higher than booking with the airline or suppliers directly.

Final thoughts...no one can anticipate or predict the future. Be prepared and have piece of mind, by purchasing travel insurance for every trip! Suppliers such as Travel Guard & Access America offer add-ons to several of their plans that allow you to cancel for work reasons or even cancel for any reason, and receive up to 75% of your penalties back. Many cruise lines and tour operators offer their own version of cancel for any reason policies, but in some cases rather than money, you receive vouchers for future travel.

It can all be a bit confusing, so make sure to consult a travel professional to help you select the best coverage to protect your investment.

Click here to read the article published on CNN.

For more information on the pros & cons of booking airfare separately from a vacation, click here.

Summer is the most popular though the weather can be hot and sticky. Spring and autumn are shoulder seasons that are wonderful times to visit for good weather and medium crowds. Venice has begun promoting winter travel with a revival of Carnevale, and some travelers are finding the traditional off-season quite attractive because of the lack of crowds. Keep in mind that the weather is foggy and cold, and that's when rain most often creates the aqua alta - high tides that splash quays - though it usually recedes quickly and affects only the lowest areas.

Things to See:

Piazza San Marco: The unquestionable heart of Venice, where all of the best sights are free. Without paying a single euro to a museum, you'll see some of the world's best art in churches graced with the work of Tintoretto, Titian, and others. Fifteen centuries of architectural styles are represented by Romanesque, Byzantine, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, etc. Remember to look up! Many beautiful details hover overhead, like elaborate chimneys, altane (roof-top terraces and gardens), friezes, family crests, commemorative inscriptions, frescoes, mosaics, lamps, and even ancient shop signs. When Napoleon entered Venice with his troops in 1797, he called the Piazza San Marco "the world's most beautiful drawing room."

Stroll the Ancient Streets: By far, the best way to explore Venice is on foot, meandering through the winding alleys and passageways that lead you away from the tourist bustle and into the "real streets" where Venetians quietly carry out their daily lives. It's confusing, so carry a map! The rios (small canals) are spanned by numerous bridges, but the Grand Canal can only be crossed on foot at 3 points - Ponte degli Scalzi (near the train station), Ponte di Rialto, and Ponte dell'Accademia.

Ride a Gondola Down the Canal Grande: Recline in a sleek gondola and glide through the heart of Venice, with gracious palazzi flanking your route as a gondolier serenades you with a lilting aria. With his striped shirt and straw hat, the Venetian gondolier is a symbol of the city's traditions, maneuvering his craft by pushing on a single oar, an art passed on from father to son in this male-only, family industry. In the annual Regata Storica (Historical Regatta), gondoliers test their strength in grueling races up and down the canal.

Lions of Venice: The lion of Saint Mark has been the emblem of Venice ever since Saint Mark replacedSaint Theodore as its patron saint. Sometimes the lion holds a sword, sometimes a flag, and almost always carries a book with the words of an angel to Mark, "Pax Tibi Marce Evangelista Meus" (Peace unto thee Mark my Evangelist). Not all the lions look the same, however, because some were fashioned in Venice but many are war booty from all over the Mediterranean, and even as far as China. In fact, the 2 large lions placed at either side of the entrance to the Arsenale were "captured" in 1685 from the Parthenon in Athens.

St. Mark's Basilica: This church dates from 1063, but it is the "newer" version of the original 9th-century wooden chapel that housed the remains of Saint Mark, which were stolen from Alexandria. The church is embellished with Gothic arches, intricate mosaics, and decorative ornaments. Inside, gold glitters everywhere, reflecting off the 1,000-year-old mosaics.

Day Trip to Murano: The glassblowing artisans of this island have been famous since the 13th century for the quality and creative beauty of their work. The elaborate, multicolored chandeliers in many Venetian palaces came from this island.

Day Trip to Burano: Artisans here are as renowned for their lace-making as the glassblowers of Murano are for their skills. Shops sell their exquisite creations, and the Scuola dei Merletti welcomes you to watch women working in their lace-making school, founded in the 19th century to rescue the ancient craft from near-extinction. Its success has been phenomenal.

Day Trip to Torcello: The first settlement in the lagoon was founded here in the 5th century, and it once rivaled Venice itself for power and prestige. It is quite rural now, and all that remains of its long history are 2 beautiful churches with splendid wall and floor mosaics.

Day Trip to The Lido: One of the long sand spits that protect Venice from the fluctuations of the Adriatic Sea, The Lido is one of the world's most famous beach resorts. The Belle Époque resort hotels and casinos attest to its long-standing position as the playground of the rich. Venetians come in summer to ride horses, golf, and take a respite from their daily routines.

Day Trip to Padua: Linked to Venice by the Brenta Canal, this makes a wonderful day trip of cruising along the water to view and visit the palatial villas built as summer homes by wealthy 16th-century Venetians.

Museo Marciano: This museum is housed at the top of the staircase leading from the atrium in the Piazza San Marco, displaying carpets, tapestries, and mosaics. The most dramatic artifacts are the bronze horses dating from the 4th century, brought from Constantinople in 1204.

Palazzo Ducale: The heads of state, the Doge, ruled Venice for 1,000 years until it was conquered by Napoleon in the 18th century. As the city's power and influence grew, the nobility built themselves the Palazzo Ducale. The architectural style combines the Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance influences that dominated throughout the several centuries of construction.

Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs): Venetians suggest that if you cross only one bridge, it be this one. Built in 1600, it joins the ancient prisons and Hall of Justice in the Palazzo Ducale to the prisons on the other side of the Rio del Palazzo. It is named for the tortured sighs of despairing prisoners. In 1755, Casanova escaped his cell here through a hole in its roof.

Gallerie dell' Accademia: Housing the greatest collection of Venetian art in the world, this gallery fills 3 former religious institutions: a 15th-century church, a convent, and the Scuola Grande della Carita, the oldest seminary in Venice. Visitors take a journey through 5 centuries, with the art arranged mostly chronologically from the medieval Byzantine period through the Renaissance, and through the Baroque and Rococo periods.

What to Pack:

Winters are cold and damp but rarely drop below freezing, so while you should dress in sufficiently warm clothes, you don't need very heavy clothing unless you plan to go up to the Dolomites to ski. Summer brings a good deal of rain, so pack an umbrella. When it isn't raining, the sun is very strong, so layer with cool clothing. Spring and autumn are mild, requiring no more than a light jacket. Bring modest clothing for churches and something dressy for upscale activities.

Several tours begin in Rome and end in Milan, but airfare can be expensive in and out of two cities, so many clients choose to include Milan when just visiting northern Italy and parts of Switzerland. Milan and Italian Treasures for example, is a popular choice.

Globus Tours

The time has never been better to book a Globus tour to Europe. Globus gives you 3 ways to save.  Take advantage of one of their special promotions.  

1.  Introducing Special Europe airfare: For a limited time, the Globus family of brands & British Airways are offering special roundtrip airfare to Europe.* This could mean savings of more than 50% off regular fares .** Availability is limited, so act now.

2.  Air-inclusive discounts for all European vacations: On other air carriers, Globus is also offering a $200 per person discount on any air-inclusive Europe vacation booked before March 3, 2009.***

3.  Guaranteed Air:  As always, an aid deposit guarantees the air price. So no matter what may happen to fares from that point, you are covered.

Some restrictions apply, visit www.escortedglobustours.com for full details, and to browse Gobus' amazing selection of Europe vacations.

Don't forget to check the list of Globus tours at 10% off the land rate to combine the savings with this air promotion.

We also realize that these are tough economic times,  so to show our appreciation for our success over the years, we are offering 10% off popular 2009 tour itineraries.

You still get all the benefits of booking with Atlas including working with 1 person throughout your entire reservation, access to discounted airfare, great rates and coverage on travel insurance (rates are non-age based), assistance with special needs, airline seating arrangements and more. 

You can book with confidence. Our knowledgeable agents are not “order takers.”  Our average employee has been with us for over 10 years, is certified and has been in the travel industry for over 17 years.

Atlas also offers destination specific web sites to make your vacation planning a more pleasant experience. Travel tips, reviews, photos and more are easily accessible.

We invite you to experience the Atlas Difference!

Before You Go:

Research:  Do your homework and find out what each area is known for and decide what items you'll look for. Find out what similar items sell for. If you are considering pictures or other items to decorate your home with your travel finds, take measurements, then pop your tape measure into your travel bag. Bring a fabric swatch if needed as well. If you plan on having garments custom-made in the Orient for example, pack a favorite item to copy. Also research customs, GST and VAT tax refunds, shipping large items, and other important rules. Thailand and China, for example, are known for antiques, but you'll need appropriate paperwork to bring them home. In Europe when you make a purchase you must fill out the tax refund form supplied by the ship. You pay the full price, but when you leave Europe there is usually an area in all major airports called 'VAT Refund' after you have cleared security. You take the tax forms to be stamped and drop them in a box. In one to two billing cycles you should see the tax refunded back onto your credit card. If you are traveling on an escorted tour, your tour manager can give you tips on the best places to shop. On a cruise, they normally hold presentations and replay them on the ship channel in the cabin, with shopping tips on each port as well.

Shopping Strategies:

Local markets offer a rich travel experience, and a treasure trove of shopping options. Here are some bargaining tips to make that a more rewarding experience:

Get the Lay of the Land - Be Strategic:  Stroll around, take in the colors and the smells of the market while checking around prices on similar items. Watch how merchants interact with their customers. In Italian markets you'll encounter a hard sell; merchants in Arab markets often bargain after you've shared a cup of tea.

The Art of the Deal: Start by offering half the quoted price. Your merchant will tout the value of his handicrafts and bring the price back to almost the original. Split the difference. By the 3rd round your price will likely be about 75% of the original. Instead of haggling again, count out your cash until you reach slightly less than his price. You should have a deal. If the merchant is aggressive, step away. Likewise there is no need to be rude to the merchants, as they are only try to make a living.

Consider Shipping Your Items Back Home: The most difficult part is waiting a few weeks for your items to arrive if you are overseas, but with airlines charging for additional baggage weight, shipping can save you money. Just make sure to insure the package if it is breakable.

In the end, the important thing is that you enjoy the experience and keep in mind, more important than the exact cost will be priceless travel memories derived from your new-found treasures.

We'd love to hear about some of your shopping strategies?

Contributed by: S Brage

Rome:  Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel will now offer longer hours, open 8:30 to 5:30 p.m. on most days. The Forum is no longer free. Tourist can take a new "Rome from the Sky" elevator to the rooftop of the Victor Emmanuel Monument.

Florence:  You can prebook tickets for the Uffii Gallery and Accademia online.

Venice:  Water taxi tickets now cost around $10. The only way to visit the Doge Palace is by purchasing a museum pass. You can no longer feed the pigeons in St. Mark's Square.

Click here to view the complete article.

More on Rick Steves

The most visited square is Piazza della Signoria, the heart of the historic center and a free open-air sculpture exhibit.  Loggia della Signoria holds some important statues such as Michelangelo's David. 

Florence's most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore.  The exterior, madeof green, pink, and white marble, has several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside, Brunelleschi's Dome is a masterpiece of construction. Buy a ticket to climb the 463 steps to the top of the bell tower. The panoramic view of the city is amazing. Plesae note, is not air-conditioned on the way up, so peak summer months can get very hot, so make sure and bring water.

The Baptistery of John the Baptist, from the 11th century, is one of Florence's oldest buildings. Its exterior is made of green and white marble and has three sets of amazing bronze doors.  Inside, you can see some mosaics and a marble pavement of the zodiac. 

The Galleria degli Uffizi holds the world's most important collection of Renaissance art but it's also Italy's most crowded museum. You can buy tickets ahead to avoid long lines. Better yet, if you purchase a shore excursion or are on one of our escorted tours, your group will have priority access. The Uffizi holds thousands of paintings from medieval to modern times and many antique sculptures, illuminations, and tapestries. 

Florence's Galleria dell' Academia holds important paintings and sculptures from the 13th-16th centuries. Michelangelo's David, probably the most famous sculpture in the world, is in the Galleria dell' Academia as well as other sculptures by Michelangelo. You'll also find an interesting collection of musical instruments, from the Medici family. 

Florence has some of the finest shopping in Europe. Leather goods, paper goods, and jewelry as well as nice souvenirs and art productions. Florence also has a number of open air markets selling food, clothing, and antiques.

Whether it's for a day, or an extended vacation, Florence is a wonderful travel experience.

For pictures of Florence, visit my Flckr account

Most people visit Europe to see the famous sights they’ve always heard about. But an equally important part of any travel experience is to savor the real flavor of a city or country. Stay where the Europeans stay, eat where the Europeans eat, and share the European view of Europe.

Book a 2009 Cosmos vacation between January 2, 2009 and March 3, 2009, and you will save $100 per person on the land only price.*

$100 per person discount applies to Cosmos Europe, United States & Canada trips.

*Book a 2009 Cosmos vacation and receive $100 off per person on the land only price. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between January 2, 2009 and March 3, 2009 for travel through December 31, 2009. Offers not valid with one-another or with any other offer except Journeys Club. Applies to new 2009 bookings only, and offer will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply.

Have more questions?  SkyMiles members can contact the Delta SkyMiles Center at 1-800-323-2323 or the number on the back of their membership cards. WorldPerks members should continue contacting the WorldPerks Service Center at 1-800-44-PERKS (or the number on the back of their membership cards).

TRIP TO ITALY

My experience in Italy was well worth ever penny it cost me. From the travel agency: Atlas Travel and our agent Cheryl Kennedy, she was so patient with me and answered every question that concerned me. I would definitely use Cheryl again as our travel agent and I can speak for my son Michael and my daughter Jill as well who traveled with me to Italy.

Our tour director: Francis Touscheck’s knowledge of the history of Italy was amazing. Every detail of every city and village that we traveled to was even more interesting because of Francis’ expertise. Not only was he a great tour guide, but also a very nice, friendly man. He was very funny at times and serious when he had to be. He went out of his way to take us to places that were not on the tour. If we had time, he would have our driver take us to other sites and let us get out of the bus to have a “Kodak moment.” He did that in every city that we were in. The unexpected was always a nice surprise.

When we were on our own, Francis always took the time to help and guide us in the right direction, so we wouldn’t get lost; although, he often did say we should get lost and take in as many sites as we could on our own. He left all of us his mobile phone number so we could find him at any time. As we departed Roma at 6:30am, Francis bought breakfast for me and my son and daughter and two other people from our tour as we sadly headed home. Those were the little perks that Francis did for us.

Thank you sooooooo much Francis. As I remember our trip to Italy, I will remember you, Francis made it so much more than I could have ever expected. I¹m ready to go back, because I left my heart in Italy. “Grazie

Pino, our bus driver was much more than a bus driver, He was such a caring and helpful man. He always helped us out of the bus; God knows I needed some help now and then.

Pino was able to maneuver his bus in the smallest spaces and often-times we gave him applause…Pino, you were the “greatest,” your expertise in driving through the countryside through rain and fog never made me nervous. I trusted you 100%. “Grazie”

I will never forget either of you, hopefully, one day, we will meet again.

Contributed by:  J. Abatemarco

Insight vacations offers premier escorted vacations in Europe and North America.  Their Easy Pace vacations are quite popular as they offer longer stays in all the major cities. Click here for more information on Insight trips.

Globus Tours

The time has never been better to book a Globus tour to Europe. Globus gives you 3 ways to save.  Take advantage of one of their special promotions.  

1.  Introducing Special Europe airfare: For a limited time, the Globus family of brands & British Airways are offering special roundtrip airfare to Europe.* This could mean savings of more than 50% off regular fares .** Availability is limited, so act now.

2.  Air-inclusive discounts for all European vacations: On other air carriers, Globus is also offering a $200 per person discount on any air-inclusive Europe vacation booked before March 3, 2009.***

3.  Guaranteed Air:  As always, an aid deposit guarantees the air price. So no matter what may happen to fares from that point, you are covered.

Some restrictions apply, visit www.escortedglobustours.com for full details, and to browse Gobus' amazing selection of Europe vacations.

Did anyone catch the latest episode of Giada's travels?

We offer a great selection of tours that visit Venice and Rome, including train travel for those weary of a bus tour, but not many tours visit Parma. Parma is a beautiful Italian city known for its monuments, castles, opera and gastronomy Parma is a unique city known for it's pasta (Barilla), proscuitto and cheese. According to legend, the Parmigiano was created in the course of the Middle Ages in Bibbiano, in the province of Reggio Emilia. Its production soon spread to the Parma and Modena areas. Historical documents show that in the 13th-14th century Parmigiano was already very similar to that produced today; this suggests that its origins can be traced far before.