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Lighting the Way

April 26, 2013

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This tour has just about everything! City tours, great eateries, gorgeous scenery, tram rides, boat rides, rail rides, and oh so much more.  You won’t believe all that is included!

I have long held an inordinate fascination with lighthouses.  On this wonderfully comprehensive sojourn you will have a great opportunity to see some beautiful old lighthouses, up-close and personal. Many of the earliest lighthouses predate the birth of our nation. The first lighthouse in America arrived in 1716 in Boston Harbor. Following that introduction, other North Atlantic cities built them as well. The lighthouses were built to nurture the growing maritime economy of the colonies. The North Atlantic waters were a “superhighway” for ships, and lighthouses served as the signs, signals and direction for the congested open waters. They were essential for navigation as the marshy coast lines from Delaware to North Carolina often made navigation difficult and the New England coast line remained treacherous due to its rocky shores. Navigation on the North Atlantic coast was essential to the growth and survival of the British colonies in America, and the development of the lighthouse system, with their sounds and signals from the shore, allowed the shipping industry to develop smoothly. Today there are lighthouses all along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, as well as the Great Lakes region.

Onshore lighthouses built on land, made up the majority of the earliest lighthouses in America. These revealed various architectural styles and were made from a variety of materials. Wood, stone masonry, brick, cast-iron plates, skeletal and reinforced concrete make up some of the most common types of lighthouse construction materials. Wood lighthouses were common before the nineteenth century because wood was readily available. It was phased out as a primary material due to the susceptibility to fire. Masonry towers were made from rubblestone, cut stone, brick and concrete. The oldest standing masonry tower in the U.S. is Sandy Hook Lighthouse (1764) in New Jersey. The stone towers were typically built in the form of a cone.

On day two of your tour, you will enjoy a narrated 90 minute scenic cruise through the busy Portland harbor and innermost islands to see not only lighthouses, but forts, lobster boats, seals, and seabirds. Four lighthouses will be viewed close-up with as many as six in view during the cruise, including a close-up view of Maine’s oldest and most photographed lighthouse, Portland Head Light! Lighthouses seen on your cruise may include: Bug Light (Portland Harbor Breakwater Light) – This cast iron tower replaced an uglier wooden lighthouse in 1875 and everyone thought this new tower was just “as cute as a bug”, hence the nickname Bug Light! The tower is patterned after the Greek monument of Lysicrates in Ancient Greece.

Ram Island Ledge Light, completed in 1905, makes it the second newest lighthouse on the Maine Coast. Built of granite blocks, it is severely beaten by storm seas throughout the year. The remote location of the tower, along with the battering it takes from mother-nature, made it a difficult place to be assigned as a lighthouse keeper. Keepers’ log books tell us that the tower was often made to ring like a bell when it was struck by heavy seas! The light was automated by the lighthouse service and has a sensor in the tower that turns the light on at dusk and off again at dawn. It is powered by solar panels and battery banks that are on the seaward side of the lantern gallery.

Portland Head Light, built in 1791, was authorized by President George Washington, and is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. Reportedly it is the most photographed in the country. The tower stands at 101 feet above sea level and its light can be seen 26 miles to seaward on a clear evening. The lighthouse sits within the park land of Fort Williams in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. So delight in the salt air, and spectacular sights, while enjoying this interlude on the coast.

Every special day of this Fall Foliage Tour is packed with wonderful things to see and do with enough free time to shop, explore or just bathe in the beauty of Mother Nature and the changing season.  Please review the complete itinerary and reserve your place on this scenic and intrinsically spectacular interlude.  Be prepared to be enchanted.

New England Fall Foliage (click here for details & departure dates)
7 Days, 6 Nights

Eadie, Interlude Blog Team

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Rocky Mountain High

February 14, 2013

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You all know how much I love railroad travel and this interlude has a wide assortment of unique railroading experiences for you to savor and enjoy.  However, tucked in between all the tracks and cogs and rails is a very special and wonderful adventure.  The Colorado National Monument is on board for a visit on the evening of Day 6 of your train escapade and will be an absolutely AWESOME experience.  You have all been to big cities and experienced man-made beauty, but when in Colorado, you will witness the real beauty that only God and Nature can make.  Cameras are a MUST on this trip! (So are good shoes!!)

The drive there is absolutely breath-taking and the pullouts allow for safe picture taking.  It is absolutely huge, the colors are amazing and the rock formations make you truly appreciate the wonders of Nature.  And… you will be going in the evening when the lighting will add a special ambience to the entire view.  I guarantee you will not cease to be amazed at what awaits around every bend.

Sheer-walled canyons, monoliths, colorful formations, and a spectacular road reflect the environment and history of plateau-and-canyon country.  Gravity-defying boulders, tunnels carved of stone and red-rock canyons within a canyon define the sheer-walled landscape of the Colorado National Monument.  The monument’s 32 square miles of quiet, wild country have an otherworldly feel – up here, “all’s right with the world”.

Nature lovers and photographers have spotted desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, desert cottontails, collared lizards and, soaring eagles are among the many unusual birds who call the area home.

While navigating the drive and stopping at the scenic overlooks, you can check off a list of wind- and water-sculpted rock formations with shape-inspired names like Window Rock, Pipe Organ, Kissing Couple, Praying Hands and Sentinel Spire. It can be a bit of hide-and-seek to find the best angle and light for a frame-worthy shot of the massive monoliths – but my guess is that you will rise to the occasion.

The Colorado National Monument should be a “bucket list” item and is a marvel of 1930′s civil engineering and landscape architecture, NOT to be missed.  While in the National Monument, admire the modernist architecture of the 1963 Visitor’s Center – it’s most interesting.

So…enjoy the rails, unique and diverse as they are, savor the sightseeing, and delight in the “high” you’ll find when visiting the Colorado National Monument.  Can’t wait to see your pictures!!!

Please review the entire itinerary and sign up to guarantee your place on this wonderful escorted vacation into “God’s Country”.

Colorado Train Adventure (click here for details & departure dates) 
8 Days, 7 Nights

Eadie, Interlude Blog Team

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Iceberg Alley and So Much More!

January 6, 2013

thCAXMTUMNOn your Interlude to Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, the most easterly edge of North America, you will witness some of the most beautiful maritime exposures. Lighthouses, natural beach fronts, fascinating bird sanctuaries and so much more!  This is where the sun rises first and is home to the oldest settlement and the oldest city in North America, but also is the youngest province of Canada. A vast land, with a relatively small population, Newfoundland and Labrador has some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Here, you can immerse yourself in wilderness solitude one day and embrace a vibrant culture at the cutting edge of the contemporary western world the next. This is a land of rich history and natural wonders: stunning coastlines, breaching whales, icebergs, and some of the most incredible skyscapes you’ll ever see. From vibrant cities to quaint, historical outports, mountain ranges, rivers, waterfalls and winding coastlines, there are always fascinating places to see and countless things to do and this tour brings you the best of all possible choices. Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the best places to see and appreciate nature in all its glory.

The province is also home to three National Parks, 18 Wilderness and Ecological Reserves, and breathtaking botanical gardens. I was interested to discover that this place has no ragweed, no snakes, no skunks, no raccoons, and no poisonous insects or arachnids.

Icebergs totally fascinate me and there is no place like Iceberg Alley for viewing these 10,000-year-old frosty giants. On a sunny day, you can view these glacial giants from many points along the northern and eastern coasts – in every shape and size, ranging in color from snow-white to the deepest aquamarine. What a site!!!! Their sheer size sends the mind racing, and that’s not even counting the ninety-percent still unseen below the surface. It was these types and sizes of bergs that sank the infamous Titanic, a mere 400 miles from the coast- daunting.

Interestingly, Icebergs are so plentiful that they have been put them to good use. There is Iceberg Water and Iceberg Vodka, Gin, and Rum and, of course, the popular Iceberg Beer – all so refreshing, no matter what time of year.  A must to try  and the food is fantastic as well.

This 13 day sojourn has something for everyone.  Please review the attached full itinerary and plan to spend July amidst the marvelous, majestic, maritime visages on a fully escorted adventure.  What are you waiting for??

Circle Newfoundland and Labrador (click here for details & departure dates)
13 Days, 12 Nights

Eadie, Interlude Blog Team

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By The Beautiful Sea

October 7, 2012

St. Andrews today continues to reflect the dominant themes of social order – peace, order and stability of its historic past. On this Interlude you will enjoy its famous gridiron street plan, and its quiet, tree lined residential homes, which preserves its unique heritage. After your Whale Watching adventure, you have the afternoon to yourself to experience the picturesque and charming town of St. Andrews By The Sea.  Steeped in history, St. Andrews offers a wealth of museums, historic sites and marine wonders for you to explore and enjoy. Artists continue to flock to St. Andrews, giving it a wide selection of galleries and studios to wander through and savor.

A highlight on your free afternoon might just be a visit to the Garden at Kingsbrae.  Kingsbrae beautifully celebrates St. Andrews’ heritage of fine gardens with its use of old and new gardening styles. You will be delighted to find these great traditions in gardening in the White, Rose, Knot, Perennial and Cottage Gardens, to name but a few. Newer styles are reflected in the Gravel, Edible, Secret and Ornamental Grass gardens as well.  As a traditionalist, I prefer the older style gardens, but make your own decisions as you meander through this floral mecca.

Kingsbrae Garden is also home to a growing collection of sculptures, principally in the Sculpture Garden. The marriage of art and gardens is a natural one. Around the 27-acre Kingsbrae site are metal and glass creations, several works on loan from the Beaverbrook collection, and a variety of animal figures.  Be on the lookout for the Dutch Windmill.  Kingbrae was recently named as one of the top five North American gardens worth travelling for – so add it to your list and join us.  

St. Andrews is truly a unique place. Considering its relatively small population (year round 1700, summer 2500), this wonderful town boasts a public art gallery, a community college, a world class golf course and numerous other amenities often associated with larger centers.

Seafood is plentiful all year (lobsters, oysters, crabs, mussels, clams, scallops, and salmon) and prepared in as many ways as there are chefs. According to Fodor’s you can cast your line just about anywhere in New Brunswick and you’ll find some kind of fish-and-chips. Try snacking on dulse, a dried purple seaweed as salty as potato chips and as compelling as peanuts. Don’t you just love new food experiences?

The old world charm is sure to enchant you and the treasure trove of original architecture is magnificent. St. Andrews boasts some of the most awe-inspiring and unparalleled scenery New Brunswick has to offer and it is waiting to totally enthrall you. Steeped in turn-of-the-century charm, St. Andrew’s By the Sea is only one of the fabulous destinations on this Atlantic Maritimes sojourn.

Please review the complete itinerary and become part of this lovely escorted vacation.

Atlantic Maritimes (click here for details)
13 Days, 12 Nights

Eadie, Interlude Blog Team

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“Ga-ron-teed” Fun!

September 22, 2012

On this escorted vacation you will enjoy a tour of the French Quarter, where all the old French, Spanish and Creole splendor are preserved, and visit market places, wharves, dueling places, millionaire homes and dramatic gardens. And after visits to Jack London’s Square, the Garden District, Saint Louis Cemetery and City Park it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create – at the New Orleans Cooking School, where we’ve arranged for you to be the CHEF!  This fun filled culinary class will have you cutting, chopping, and sautéing a full meal.  You will receive the recipes and a New Orleans School of Cooking apron too.  After all your hard work, you are free to enjoy the house red or white wine, Abita beer or lemonade, iced tea, and coffee and dine on what you have created – and how cool is that! What a perfect place to bring out the inner “foodie” in you and share in an absolutely great time as well.

Since 1980, the New Orleans School of Cooking has introduced countless visitors from around the world to the wonderful world of food – Louisiana and New Orleans style.

The entertaining cooking classes are taught by well-known local chefs; skilled in the arts and traditions of Cajun and Creole cuisine. On this escorted mini-vacation you (the chef) will be treated to a wide range of local classics.  You will learn the basics of Louisiana Cooking in a way you’ll never forget. Fun is a primary ingredient in this kitchen! The Creole/Cajun experts teach New Orleans specialties such as Gumbo, Jambalaya and Pralines, and all the recipes are seasoned with history, trivia and tall tales. It’s a “ga-ron-teed” good time for all.

Let’s talk about something the locals wish you wouldn’t find out about – just so they can keep more to themselves. Always part of the first meal of the day, and often part of the last thing you think about before you go to sleep, is coffee and dessert.   This is some of the best eating you’ll do when in New Orleans. The New Orleans School of Cooking has coffee and sweets in stock in their general store, and you can buy them for your own personal use or bring them home as souvenirs for your friends who weren’t smart enough to book this trip. When you choose to take home a little piece of New Orleans, you can blend up some delicious New Orleans coffee, close your eyes and be right back in the city – do you hear those tenor saxophones on Bourbon Street?

Take a look at the attached full itinerary and mark your calendars to include this truly fun-filled adventure to the Big Easy – you’ll thank yourself!

Azaleas, Plantations & Cajuns (click here for details
7 Days, 6 Nights:  March 14-20, 2013

Eadie, Interlude Blog Team

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Steamboatin’

May 29, 2012

Steamboatin’  – a truly unique way to enjoy a Mississippi  river cruise and experience the history, heritage and the true culture of America’s heartland. Gracious, elegant, and modern in her amenities, the American Queen takes you back to a time when travel was an unhurried and relaxing experience.   The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity.

When you join this fascinating Interlude, you’ll discover a side of our country that few ever see, from the indescribable perspective of the river itself.   Forget speed, forget lines, forget all the hustle and bustle of deadlines, etc.  and step on board a bit of Americana for a journey that will long be remembered.  Combining the best of the old and the new, this beautiful lady of the river epitomizes the grace and grandeur of a bygone time.  Steamboatin’  is a treasured American tradition and once you are on board you will understand why.

You know I’m always about the food. Are you ever in for a treat!! Run by a celebrated American chef who draws her inspiration from our great Heartland, the kitchens aboard the Queen offer a veritable and delectable movable feast. From piping hot beignets and bananas foster French toast for breakfast to succulent five-course dinners, every day celebrates the culinary senses.   The food – superb, as are the well-appointed choices of dining venues on board – all are waiting just for you.   The opulent J.M. White Dining Saloon is the centerpiece, serving breakfasts, lunches and dinners that are extraordinarily grand. The Front Porch of America offers a wide variety of classic American favorites that will satisfy any craving, AND it’s open 24 hours a day – the kitchen that never sleeps!. The Calliope Grill serves up views that every bit as spectacular as the grilled fare and fresh salads and offers romantic, alfresco dining in the evenings.  And …you also must seek out the delightful Moonlight Supper in the Engine Room Bar which offers midnight delights to those who just need a “little something” before retiring from a thoroughly wonderful day.

Do you love to sing – well every evening you can sing away in the Main Deck Lounge before enjoying a lavishly luscious show in the two-deck-tall, not to be believed, Grand Saloon – an elegant showstopper on the river and that’s before the show even starts.

Because packing can often be a dilemma, I went right to the source to see what advice was offered.   Please see below:

We suggest you check a national weather source, such as the Weather Channel, its website at http://www.weather.com, or the national weather listings in your newspaper to plan what to pack for your voyage. For daytime, dress is casual. Be sure to bring sportswear and comfortable, nonslip walking shoes for ports of call and shore excursions. Slacks and shorts are acceptable in all public areas of the steamboat and ashore. You may want to bring a swimsuit for the pool or for lounging on the Sun Deck. For evenings, we suggest a dress, a dressy skirt and blouse, or a pants suit for ladies. While gentlemen may wish to wear a sport coat, one is not necessary and formal wear is not required any evening onboard. We recommend that you pack a raincoat and for spring and fall trips, a sweater or jacket and perhaps a hat or scarf. Though the boat is usually down south during the winter, occasionally it can still get chilly. A warm coat is recommended.

Fall is a wonderful time to explore the Northern exposures of the Mighty Mississippi and become embraced by the vibrancy of the changing season.  Experience what two centuries of travel on the river can provide, the locks, the quaint towns, the immeasurable pleasure of steamboatin’.  Celebrate with us as we pay homage to our glorious heartland and the expansive river that provided so much to the lure and legend we all cherish. Check out the impressive itinerary and call today to reserve your place – cabin space is limited!! Then look forward to “rollin on the river.”

Steamboatin’ Fall Colors Cruise & Tour (click here for itinerary)
October 16-22, 2012 (7 days, 6 nights)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

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Posted in Guaranteed Departure, Paddleboat Travel, Special Benefits, United States, Upcoming Tours | 1 Comment »

Joie de Vivre in Rhode Island

March 26, 2012

Newport is famous worldwide for its Gilded Age mansions, its history of victories in the America’s Cup yacht race, its Cliff Walk and other spectacular seaside lookouts, its authentic Colonial buildings, its Newport jazz and folk festivals, and more.  And… you get to experience this great adventure when you join us for this late summer Interlude.   Once in a lifetime adventure awaits!

If you’ve ever donned waist-high waders you know part of the adventure is just getting into them – what a hilarious photo op and delightful experience.  Oyster fishing and exploration of the aquaculture is bound to be a favorite on this multi-faceted trip. You may even get the chance to learn how to open an oyster. Oh the pure joy when you work the tip of the knife into just the right spot and feel the oyster open ever so slightly – and learn how to hold the oyster so as not to spill the delicious brine. The fresh oysters, chowder etc are unbelievably tasty too!

Lighthouses have always held a remarkable fascination with me and I think with many others.  On this escorted vacation you will enjoy a delightful one hour cruise throughout Narragansett Bay, which showcases some of Rhode Island’s beautiful lighthouses – extraordinary!  For those who love history, Smith’s Castle offers four centuries of Rhode Island history wonderfully interpreted through tours.  This 1637 structure is amazing architecture.

And … this is just the tip of this “joie de vivre” adventure!  The French phrase expresses a cheerful enjoyment of life and an exultation of spirit – and this sojourn offers so many opportunities to enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!!!

The “Joie” continues when you visit and tour the Newport Vineyards, where you can relax as you enjoy a sampling.  In 1999 the Newport Vineyards Vidal Ice Wine was voted one of the top 50 US wines – definitely worth a taste!   In 2010, Newport Vineyards 2010 Riesling won a Gold Medal at the Eastern International Wine Competition. This Riesling was one of over 1,400 entries, from five countries and 32 U.S.states. This one is definitely a winner on your palate. Newport Vineyards is the largest grower of wine grapes in New Englandand continues the tradition of growing quality wines on preserved farmland and it is beautiful to look at as well.

The Wharf that John Bannister built was the social and commercial lifeline to colonial Newport is now the hub of Newport’s harbor side shopping and dining, where you will find eclectic boutiques, sophisticated and casual restaurants side by side. It has always celebrated a certain “joie de vivre.” This is the place where people come to experience the ambiance that is expressly and uniquely Newport. Enjoy distinctive boutique shopping and delicious dining at one of the many wharf restaurants. A century and a half ago, the shops that lined the Wharf housed the purveyors of life’s necessities. Today, twenty shops and galleries offer a great variety of life’s little treasures. All, boast a welcoming atmosphere where storekeepers assemble the unusual, the distinctive, the very, very tempting – a savory shoppers sanctuary!!

The “joie” of all “joie” is of course the beautiful “cottages” of Newport.  On this lovely Interlude you will be touring the best of the best. As you “summer in Newport” like the wealthy did so long ago, you will visit the fabulous homes of the very rich and famous: The Breakers, The Elms, Rosecliff, and Marble House. You will be dazzled by the opulence and grandeur of these mansions.  Because these palaces are so large and stair-filled, it is recommended that you wear sensible shoes. The tour also includes acres of gardens and grounds, so foot comfort and safety is highly recommended. Also important to note is that visitors to the Newport Mansions are welcome to photograph or videotape the exterior of the houses and their grounds for their own personal use.  But for the protection of the collections, and to avoid disturbing other visitors, interior photography or videography is not allowed.

If you love the ocean, or history, or opulence, or shopping, or architecture, or even oysters, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time on this escorted mini-vacation.  Please review the attached itinerary and prepare for a joy-filled experience.  I know you won’t be disappointed. Je vous souhaite un merveilleux voyage.

Gilded Age Mansions & Gardens of Rhode Island (click here for itinerary)
August 27-30, 2012 (4 days, 3 nights)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

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Yellowstone Safari: What Our Customers Are Saying

February 6, 2012

I had a fabulous time. I’d always wanted to visit Yellowstone and was not disappointed. The Grand Tetons were equally breathtaking. The tour was well organized with a knowledgable guide. I also liked the fact that we were a smaller group very friendly. Not a “grouch” in the group.  Alice M.

 

The highlight of the tour was our small group “safari.”  We split into small groups and went out with a park ranger.  Since we were in smaller vehicles we could go to the high country where larger coaches couldn’t travel.

Our guide was very knowledgable and explained the geology, history and topography of the area.  We travelled at a leisurely pace, there was plenty of time for questions and photographs.

Our float in the Snake River was a great opportunity to see more remote areas we couldn’t travel to by coach.

Overall our accommodateions were verw well positioned near the attractions and comfortable.  In Jackson Hole our lodge was within walking distance of the quainte downtown area.

We had a good balance of free time and touring.  Judy K.

Interlude Tours is offering 3 departure dates for this tour in 2012.  Sign-up now, reservations are limited!

Jo Ann, President, Interlude Tours

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Tottlin’ Through Chicago – Your Way

February 1, 2012

Chicagois a tottlin’ town and you will have lots of opportunities to toddle through some pretty special places when you join Interlude for a fantastic three days of theater, history, shopping and MORE!!  The food experiences alone are amazing!

This sojourn allows you to experience the wonderful Old World traditions prevalent in many of the establishments of Greektown.  The fluidity of the Greek language is still heard in the neighborhood and adds such authenticity and flavor.   The luncheon experience at Santorini’s is like a mini-trip to Greece.  From the white stucco walls adorned with copper pots and flower arrangements to the attentive wait-staff and the savory smells -  Η ζωή είναι καλή  (Life is good). A MUST at Santorini’s is their Saganaki – flaming and fabulous.  Save room for dessert – I recommend the Galaktobouriko – hard to say OR spell but delectable.  You’ll thank me.

This adventure includes a stop at the charmingly authentic Long Grove Village, which offers more than 60 distinctive shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in homes and businesses that date from the 1800s. As you meander down the cobblestone walks that wind through the historic downtown you’ll be treated to lush gardens and many scenic views- great photo ops!! Here you are free to indulge your tastes with a diverse selection of  food and bakery products, cafés, and fine eating establishments. I guarantee delightfully different food experiences and enough historic content to satisfy the non-shopper.

Currently the buildings in the crossroads area are marked with plaques identifying the original owners and recognizing their importance to Long Grove’s history. All the village landmarks in the historic district have been carefully guarded as the town evolved into a unique destination just waiting for visitors like you. You will enjoy shopping in the former blacksmiths, grist mills, and dairies that now house a myriad of intriguingly interesting shops. As you stroll through this treasure of earlyAmericana, keep an eye open for the one-room schools, early taverns, and general and specialty stores currently hosting contemporary shops and restaurants. A truly awesome shopping and photographic experience awaits – just one more stimulating adventure with Interlude.

A visit to Cuneo will linger with you forever.  It is truly one of my very favorite places relatively close to home.  The grandeur of the architecture, the lushness of the gardens, the almost sacred feeling of the chapel and the stained glass is wondrous.  Meandering through the mansion one feels oddly comfortable amid the elegance.  It is one of the places that must be experienced – and the effects will linger with you forever. I can only hope that your experience there is similar to mine. Among the treasures held within is the Cuneo family collection of fine antiques, paintings by world-famous artists, tapestries, sculptures, silver, and porcelain.  You may just depart on sensory overload – I did.

On your free day, I strongly suggest the Driehaus Museum for a total immersion into the Gilded Age-era of decorative arts, design, and architecture. The Gilded Age was an era defined by men of industry and commerce. These titans of business immortalized their positions as America’s new aristocracy by erecting opulent residences that emulated the palaces of old Europe. Today, the Samuel M.NickersonMansion, now the Driehaus Museum, survives as a reminder of the elite character of this special time. Once known as Nickerson’s Marble Palace, you will tour the resplendently restored mansion, still one of the grandest residential buildings representing nineteenth-century Chicago.  All three floors and a view the servants’ quarters are available to see. A truly lovely reward to all your senses – you’ll enjoy magnificent interiors and a fine collection of both decorative and fine arts from the private collection. Relatively new to the Chicago area, this Museum is a rare gem and well worth your time.

Of course there is also the Genghis Khan exhibit at theFieldMuseumand countless sightseeing opportunities as well.  And…some free time to pick what interests you most.

Theater in Chicago is always a great experience and once the show has been chosen we’ll make that known to you. Now really, what could be better than the Palmer House to lay down your weary heads after experiencing Chicago Your Way!!  Please check out the full itinerary and make your reservation early because this trip is sure to be a sell-out and for heaven’s sake DO NOT forget your camera!!

City Break: Chicago (click here for itinerary)
July 6-8, 2012 (3 days, 2 nights)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

•For immediate service, please call (317) 913-0387 or email us •Share your Interlude stories and photos on this blog •Sign up for our email newsletter •RSS this blog

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Anchors Aweigh

January 24, 2012

 

On this special Interlude, you will be a special guest enjoying the fusion of dining, entertainment and amazing views of the historic ships of OpSail 2012 Virginia. OpSail 2012 Virginia and the US Navy will be celebrating the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner as they journey up the east coast.  An incredible display of Class A tall ships from over 25 countries, including the US Navy, visiting Foreign Navy, USCG, Army, Army Corps and more will be yours to enjoy and remember.

Following tradition, this impressive fleet includes tall ships, character vessels, sleek power cruisers, sailing craft, antique and classic wooden boats, military vessels, tugs and more – a boat lovers dream.  As you tour Naval Station Norfolk which is near the site of the battle of the Monitor and Merrimac (CSS Virginia), and is the largest naval complex in the world you can’t help but be impressed. The complex is the combined home to the headquarters for Commander Naval Base Norfolk, as well as the Defense Department’s largest supply center, and Naval Air Station Norfolk. Virginia may very well be for lovers – boat lovers!!

 What could be more impressive than the spectacle of all these ships and the men and women who serve on them – all decked out in their uniformed splendor?   The ships are magnificent, the pageantry exquisite and add a beach, a dock party, shopping and great seafood and this sojourn is a real winner.

 This venture has so many highlights it’s hard to focus on just one, but I am particularly intrigued by our dinner aboard the USS Wisconsin.  Who knew these ships were SO BIG!! The ship is over 60 years old, first launched in 1943, and is one of the largest battleships ever built by the US Navy. A treasure trove for history buffs since docents are placed in various spots on board to answer any questions about the ship’s colorful past.  The teak deck is a far cry from all the grey steel and non skid we see today. As a Navy brat myself, I find it spine tingling to think of all the men like my Dad being on board this type of vessel defending our wonderful country.

 There are many exhibitions on-board and you can test your skills in many ways.  Most interesting to me because of my Dad’s specialty in Aeronautics,  is the aviation piece, since he was attached to Naval Air. Suspended in Nauticus’ third floor is an actual Pioneer Remotely Piloted Vehicle (RPV) that flew off the fantail of the Battleship Wisconsin during the Persian Gulf War. Real-time video transmitted from cameras aboard Pioneer once enabled Wisconsin sailors to collect vital intelligence and improve the long-range accuracy of the big guns. This exhibit allows visitors to move the camera in this RPV and see what is going on in Nauticus’ third floor … absolutely fascinating. 

 I grew up going to the Atlantic Ocean every summer. so I truly love the beach and all that it has to offer.  On this escorted mini-vacation you’ll get to enjoy the spectacular Virginia Beach Boardwalk.  A walk down the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is sure to put pep in your with its eclectic atmosphere that resembles a wonderful carnival. You can enjoy splendid beach views, plenty of dining and shopping options as well. Virginia Beach Boardwalk is an absolute must for all those who want to partake and completely enjoy the wonderful coastal ambiance of the city.

 

During your free time you might want to visit the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, it is a stunning lighthouse that dates back to circa 1792. This archaic structure boasts of an amazing architecture that makes it a worthwhile tourist attraction and well worth your time. 

 Ok time to make the call, reserve your spot, and get ready to enjoy a wonderful, history and fun-filled time in beautiful Virginia.  Check out the full itinerary and you might want to learn all the words to “Anchors Aweigh” – there just might be a test.

Op-Sail 2012 (click here for itinerary) (4 days, 3 nights)
1812 Bicentennial Event – June 7-10, 2012

Eadie – Interlude blog team

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