Odyssey of the Greek islands, Venice Italy and the gorgeous Dalmation Coast of Split Croatia
Sept. 9-19, 2010

    
 The Parthenon of Athens                              Windmills of Mykonos               

 Gondolas along the waterways of Venice

                        
             The cliffs and coastline along the Greek island of Santorini

Join us on a one of a kind tour of the Greek islands, along with magical Venice Italy and the beautiful Dalmation Coast of Split Croatia.

We will enjoy 2 nights at a 5 star hotel on the sundrenched island of Mykonos Greece, where beach life and nightlife are quintessential, 2 nights at a 5 star hotel on the incomparable island of Santorini Greece, where the views of the cliffs, the volcano and the sea below are dazzling and the sunsets even more scintillating.

 We will also enjoy a deluxe 5 night Royal Caribbean Cruise Line sailing  visiting the Greek island of Corfu, the beauty of the popular Dalmation coast of Croatia and the legendary Parthenon of Athens.

 But that’s not all – we will also enjoy a 1 night pre cruise stay in magical Venice with free time to explore the charming walkways, bridges and canals of this timeless town, shop for fabulous Venetian glass and have the opportunity to savor a ride on a Venetian gondola (you may even hear your gondolier sing to you)

ITINERARY

Thursday September 9th – Depart in the evening at 7:15pm on your choice of Delta or Air France from JFK to Venice

Friday September 10th   -  Midday Arrival in Venice.   After clearing customs, we are taken to our hotel for the night to check in to our rooms.  The Laguna Palace Hotel is a 4 star hotel offering convenient access by water taxi to explore Venice at your leisure today

By the unique mode of water taxi, guests of the hotel can travel into the town center of Venice where they can then explore the incredible walkways, bridges and attractions of this amazing city by foot.
 
The full afternoon and evening is at your leisure to explore the incredible island city of Venice with its canals, waterways and bridges that are so enchanting.  Your trip escort will give you suggestions if you wish on popular areas to stroll and just relax, savoring the ambience of this timeless classical city.

Venice is remarkably easy to explore by foot as it is a most unique city, designed for foot travel rather than that of motor vehicles.  The walkways take you over foot bridges offering scenic vistas of the canals and unique architecture.  Often times a walk over a foot bridge produces unique photo opps. of gondolas quietly sailing the waterways, often with gondoliers serenading the occupants.

If you wish to take an optional gondola ride this afternoon, this can be arranged for you very easily on the spot at a time of your choosing (there are many gondolier stations along the waterways where you purchase a gondola ride for the hour of your desire, or if you wish to have one pre reserved at a designated time, our office can make the reservation for you 2 weeks prior to your trip.  If wish, ask for a ride with a singing gondolier and enjoy being serenaded by sweet Italian melodies.)

Some of the most popular places you may wish to explore by foot are the fabulous Doges Palace and the clock tower next door (the tower offers an elevator that will take you to the top for a panoramic view of Venice)

Enjoy dining at your leisure at any of the wonderful little Trattorias that line the walkways of Venice.

Of course, no visit to Venice would be complete without a chance to shop for Venetian glassware.  There are numerous places where you can pick up fabulous works to take home or have shipped directly by the merchant to your home.

September 11th – The morning is at your leisure.  At mid day we will be picked up by our chartered coach and transferred to our cruise ship, the fabulous Royal Caribbean Splendor of the Seas.

The ship is a perfect size, at 70,000 tons she has all the bells and whistles of fun, that make royal Caribbean the standard for cruising fun, but still not too big to be overwhelming.

Our cruise itinerary takes us to 4 fabulous ports with wonderful sightseeing opportunities each day

September 12th

September 13th 

SEPTEMBER 14TH  

Piraeus is the main port of Athens, the biggest in Greece, and one of the most important in the Mediterranean Sea. Piraeus is walking distance from Kastella, a hill strewn with beautiful houses that offers a majestic view of the Saronic Gulf. Other points of interest include an archaeological museum, Mikrolimano, where you can enjoy an ouzo accompanied by seafood mezedes.

TODAY WE WILL IN ENJOY AN INCLUDED PRIVATE TOUR OF ATHENS INCLUDING THE FAMED PARTHENON ON THE ACROPOLIS. 

No visit to Athens would be complete without a visit to the Acropolis. There you'll find the Parthenon, the largest building in the Acropolis and one of the world's most awe-inspiring sights. It was built as a temple to Athena and is still a remarkable structure today

Our private tour will also visit such sites as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Royal Palace and the Pan-Athenian Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the world famous Acropolis, as well as Monastiraki (the Old Flea Market) and the modern market.  

Our tour will also take us to visit the Plaka, the old neighborhood of Athens.  Explore the narrow streets and alleys, single-story houses, neoclassical villas, taverns and many tourist shops

We will then drive along Patission, Alexandras, Vas Sofias and Panepistimiou avenues, viewing the Academy, the University and the National Library before being transferred back to our ship.

September 15th   

 

                                                                                   
In the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean lies one of the most inviting places in all of Greece - Mykonos. Its countless bays and beaches and its quaint cobblestone streets are bound to welcome any visitor.

According to Greek mythology, it was here that Hercules slew the Giants; the large rocks that are scattered about the island are said to be their petrified corpses. True or not, you'll have to judge for yourself.

Arriving on the island of Mykonos this morning, we will be transferred to our 5 star hotel, the San Marco Hotel.

The San Marco Hotel sits perched with a breathtaking view of the sea that can be witnessed from its gorgeous pool, its Poolside bar and from many of its rooms.
 It has an onsite spa offering massage and other treatments.
>>The San Marco is a perfect example of Cycladic architecture and the recent full refurbishment establishes the hotel’s position as one of the best on Mykonos Island. The hotel is located on the unique pebble beach of Houlakia, surrounded by landscaped gardens. All rooms and suites are attractively furnished and each individual balcony or terrace overlooks the sea, mountains or gardens
>>>The hotel also is close to the main town on the island and offers a free shuttle service to and from the heart of town from 9am until 11pm.

 Click the following links to view more details and photos of our hotel
http://www.dilos.com/hotel/1306  
 http://travela.priceline.com/hotel/overview-Greece_Kyklades_Mikonos_San_Marco_Hotel-3411505.html  

The balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy the island.  Tonight, enjoy the hopping nightlife that makes the island, the jet set haven to many.

. The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss Mykonos is famous for its sand and sea. Get lost looking out at the endless waters of the Aegean Sea as you grab a little sun on one of its beautiful beaches. Other Fun Things to Do Take a tour boat over to Delos Island to visit the birthplace of Apollo on this historic island. Dating back to the third millennium B.C., Delos is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Marvel at the ancient ruins from famed architectural sights. Visit the Archaeological Museum on Mykonos, featuring important finds from the ruins on Delos Spend an enchanting afternoon exploring the charming cobblestone streets and two-story, whitewashed shops and homes of these beautiful islands. Get a Taste of Local Flavor Greece is famous for honey, olives, olive oil, pistachios and cheeses, such as salty feta. All are generously used in this delicious, flavorful cuisine.

SEPTEMBER 16TH
 Today is a full day at leisure to shop, enjoy the scintillating beaches such as the aptly named Paradise Beach, or even take an optional excursion to visit the neighboring island of Delos, which is just a 30 minute boat ride away.  Guided tours of Delos are offered, sharing the secrets of the ancient ruins that were left by a long gone civilization.  If you wish to explore further, a short hike up a small hillside offers scenic views of the harbor and the island for those interested in the modest walk up its path.

             Ruins on the island of Delos – a short excursion from Mykonos

Mykonos, the scenic island where windmills dot the landscape, Pelicans roam gracefully, more fabulous beaches abound and excursions to the neighboring island of Delos offer a glimpse into Greek history and culture.

On jet-set Mykonos beautiful beaches, chic boutiques and elegant nightclubs all vie for the tourist’s attention. Beneath its sophisticated surface, however, lies a quintessential Greek island. Hundreds of tiny chapels dot the island and sheep graze in the shadow of whitewashed windmills. Find a table on the waterfront and bask in the serenity of sunset over the picturesque harbor. Be sure to send your regards to Pete the Pelican. 

 Tonight, stroll the quaint streets where great dining options abound and then enjoy another opportunity to savor the hopping nightlife of Mykonos. 

Friday SEPTEMBER 17TH 

TODAY WE WILL BE TRANSPORTED BY HIGH SPEED HYDROFOIL IN COMFORT TO THE INCOMPARABLE ISLAND OF SANTORINI.  THE HYDROFOIL OFFERS INDOOR COMFORTABLE SEATING, A REFRESHMENT STAND AND MORE ON OUR SHORT JOURNEY TO SANTORINI.

Santorini is legendary for its cliff top location.  On Santorini, every view is more dramatic and breathtaking than the last one.  Stroll its quaint, trendy shops, dine at restaurants that overlook the cliffs and the sea and watch the most amazing sunsets you will ever see.

On arrival early afternoon, we will be met and transferred to our hotel – The 5 star Majestic Hotel for our 3 night stay on Santorini.

http://www.hotel-majestic.gr/En/index.asp

Luxury, impeccable style and comfort are everywhere.
Smooth beds, marble spacious bathrooms with Jacuzzi bathtubs, verandas offering astounding view, soundproof rooms and other numerous facilities guarantee a thrilling experience.


AMENITIES INCLUDES

Three ( 3 ) swimming pools with Jacuzzi and fresh water, one heated April and October
Main Lounge (The Grand Lounge)
Pool Bar
A la carte restaurant (Capparis)
Gourmet restaurant (Crocus)
Room service from 08:00 until 24:00
Fully equipped fitness centre featuring “Technogym” equipment
Sauna
Turkish bath
Beauty Hall with full body and face treatment

The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy strolling through the island’s capital town of Fira.. Tonight, join us as we gather for a social gathering at Franco's pub, where we will watch the amazing ritual on Santorini of sunset gazing over the sea.  Franco's offers a balcony overlooking the water with classical music and comfortable outdoor seating.

Saturday Sept. 18th
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 The day is at leisure on Santorini.   Optional tours will be offered such as a scenic boat ride to the famed caldera (extinct volcano) where we will have free time to explore by foot, the massive black rock face surface, with its many craters and unique features. On our sail back, our boat will stop at the natural Hot Springs, offering a chance to swim in this unique geothermal wonder.
If you prefer to relax, enjoy the 2 famed beaches of Santorini.  The black sand beach offers classic sun worshipping on sand matching its name.  Enjoy several restaurants and bars that line the beach.  The Red sand beach offers a much different experience.  Set at the base of a series of cliffs, the beach is reached by a walking path (approx. 15-30 mins. walk).  At the base is the most unique beach featuring sand that is a dark reddish burgundy in color.  Relax on the sand as you admire the cliffs around you.  

Views of the Volcanic Caldera on Santorini

Tonight, enjoy another Santorini tradition with a visit the far side of the island for a chance to watch the sunset over the coast of Oia, or watch the sunset from the most famous pub on the island, Franco’s, where you can recline on lounges overlooking the cliffs, sip cocktails and watch the sun set over the sea.

Views of the town Oui on the edge of the island. An ideal spot for sunset watching

Sunday September 19th

Today we bid farewell to Santorini. We are transferred to the airport for our flight to Athens, connecting to our flight from Athens to NY (JFK) 

INCLUDED IN OUR JOURNEY :

• AIRFARE ON YOUR CHOICE BETWEEN DELTA AIRLINES OR AIR FRANCE RT NY (JFK) TO VENICE, RETURNING FROM ATHENS GREECE TO JFK (please see flight times and pricing below for each airline )
• TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT TO OUR HOTEL IN VENICE
• 1 NIGHT ACCOMMDATIONS IN VENICE ITALY WITH BREAKFAST
• WALKING TOUR OF VENICE WITH VENETIAN GLASS BLOWING DEMONSTRATION
• TRANSFER TO OUR ROYAL CARRIBBEAN SHIP IN VENICE
• 5 NIGHT ROYAL CARRIBBEAN CRUISE FROM VENICE ON THE FABULOUS SPLENDOR OF THE SEAS (based on inside cabins.  For Upgrade to ocean view cabin, please add $199 per person)

• ALL MEALS ABOARD OUR LAVISH CRUISE SHIP AND NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT ONBOARD
• TRANSFER FROM THE SHIP TO OUR HOTEL IN MYKONOS
• 2 NTS. ACCOMMODATIONS AT THE 5 STAR SAN MARCO HOTEL IN MYKONOS WITH BREAKFAST
• HIGH SPEED HYDROFOIL RIDE FROM MYKONOS TO SANTORINI GREECE WITH TRANSFER TO OUR HOTEL
• 2 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATIONS AT THE 5 STAR MAJESTIC HOTEL IN SANTORINI GREECE WITH BREAKFAST
• TRANSFER FROM OUR HOTEL TO THE SANTORINI AIRPORT
• ONE WAY FLIGHT FROM SANTORINI TO ATHENS TO CONNECT WITH OUR DELTA FLIGHT FROM ATHENS TO JFK
• Free roommate matching based on age sex and smoking or non smoking preference

 TOUR COST: $3109 plus taxes of between $290 and $330 if choosing to include service on our Air France flights

OR

$3499 + taxes of between $290 and $330 if choosing to include service on our Delta airlines flights

FLIGHT SCHEDULES:

AIR FRANCE   SEPT. 9TH – DEP.  JFK 6PM ARR. PARIS 7:30AM ;  DEP PARIS  9:50AM ARR VENICE 11:30AM

RETURN SEPT. 19TH  DEP ATH 12:35PM ARR PARIS AT 3PM; DEP PARIS  4:35PM ARR. JFK 6:40PM

Delta :   SEPT. 9 DEP JFK 6:15PM  ARRIVE VENICE 10:05AM (NONSTOP)

RETURN SEPT 19TH DEP ATHENS 11:15AM ARR. JFK 3:09PM (NONSTOP)

For passengers choosing to do their own air, you may deduct $1300

A deposit of $200 is due within 10 days of making your reservation.  Deposits are refundable if cancelled by April 20th.
Balance payments are due May 20th