Farewell Dinner – Bistro Estrada

What a congenial group!  Traveling in a small group gave us flexibility and time to get to know our fellow travelers.  Our local guide, Julio, was so informative.  His English is excellent and he is very easy to understand. But the best part was his charm…he has obvious pride and enthusiasm for Nicaragua and he is eager to share its history and natural wonders.  Ruth R. 

Hotel Convento, Leon

 Who would have expected the food to be so wonderful? What could be better than starting your day with breakfast served ovelooking our lush hotel courtyard?  We had fabulous meals each day with organically grown fresh ingredients. The fresh fruit was abundant, and meal choices ranged from fresh caught fish to grass fed beef and chicken attractively presented.  Sally D.

What photo ops! From natural wonders including volcanoes, birds and rain forests to charming rural scenes of a simple life to historic colonial architecture…bring your camera, you won’t be disappointed.  Karen B.

Poneloya Beach

Basilica Cathedral de Leon Rooftop

Road from Leon to Esteli

Rey Solomon School Nicaragua

People have asked me if I felt safe.  Never for a moment did I not feel safe.  I found the Nicaraguan people to be very friendly and truly eager to please. We felt free to walk around the colonial cities on our own without concern, and traveling with our U.S. hosts, Dennis and JoAnn, who knew Nicaragua well was also helpful.  Maureen & John H.

Ometepe Ferry

 Ziplining down the volcano and over the coffee plantation…what an experience!  Our equipment was excellent, we traversed 15 platforms with our congenial guides…felt like a kid again!  Phil & Diana P.

Mombacho Canopy Tour

Please take a look at the full itinerary by clicking on the link below.  The group size is limited to 18 guests, so sign up soon!

Natural Notable Nicaragua (click here for itinerary)
February 3-12, 2013 – or – February 17-26, 2013 
(10 days, 9 nights)

Jo Ann Carr
– President, Interlude Tours

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If you missed last year’s inaugural “Girlfriends Getaway” you missed a fabulous time; however all is not lost.  With the hopes of making this an annual event for sisters, girlfriends, and/or mothers and daughters, Interlude will once again go north on another adventure.  Fear not – shopping in Geneva is still included with MORE TIME there as requested.  The unique shopping and charming atmosphere made even yours truly – a real non-shopper – want for more.  Whether it is gourmet foods, gifts from around the world, home décor or antiques – it’s all right there!  Into the creative arts?  In Geneva’s historic third street district you’re sure to find just what you are looking for.  If you love to quilt, knit, crochet, make jewelry or even scrapbook, you will find the unique and very desirable on Third Street. The restaurants are quaint and their fare is quite tasty and it’s an un –harried atmosphere.  Sip some tea, enjoy the ambience and savor all that surrounds you.  You deserve a “getaway” and this escorted encounter provides all the right stuff.

But that’s for day two!  On day one you will be treated to the unique Sanfilippo Collection and be fascinated by all the opulence that surrounds the French Second Empire setting. Your tour of this private estate features viewing one of the world’s finest collections of restored, automatic musical instruments and other, turn-of-the-century antiques.  Known worldwide as “Place de la Musique” you will be awed by the world’s largest pipe organ, the most remarkable European salon carousel in existence and both street and tower clocks and oh so much more.  Relish every moment spent amidst the opulence of a bygone time.

Our evening away is filled with the Motown music featured in “Dream Girls”- a sassy and savvy exploration taking you into a world of musical entertainment. You’ll follow the rags to riches story of a female 1960s Motown group from Chicago…“The Dreams.”  If you loved the Motown music of the 60’s you will absolutely love this production!   Dinner is included and you will find the Marriott Courtyard Lincolnshire to be a lovely home away from home.

So what are you waiting for?  Make that phone call to your bestest buds and then reserve a spot on this getaway.  The price is right, the amenities are terrific and it’s a guaranteed great time!  Check the itinerary and call right way – this is one adventure you don’t want to miss!!  When it’s ALL GIRLS you never know what can happen!!

Girlfriends’ Getaway 2012 (click here for itinerary)
September 13-14, 2012 (2 days, 1 nights)

Eadie
– Interlude blog team

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Your Interlude includes an invitation to escape the ordinary and relive the romance of dining on the rails. It is a truly remarkable experience with linen, china and crystal and even music!   Your five courses of fine food and spirits served to you in the Grand European manner is a treat to all your senses. The service is impeccable.  With salad greens, herbs and edible flowers fresh from their gardens: always fresh meats, poultry, seafood and homemade rolls through dessert, you are guaranteed the unusual and the delicious.  A complete wine list and cocktail service is also available for your pleasure.  As dinner is served,  period music keeps time with the rail’s rhythmic rumbling, punctuated by the haunting wail of the engine’s whistle.

After dinner, with the compartment lights down low and the dramatic sunset outside your window, you may find yourself wistfully back in time. This two-hour, 20 mile round trip will take you on a spur of the historic Boston and  Maine Railroad laid in the late 1800′s. Aren’t you glad you don’t have to wear high top shoes and a bustle?  I love the romance of trains, especially old ones, and this one will not disappoint. The ambience cannot be beat and the food is absolutely fantastic.  Bon Appetit!!!

Another fabulous stop on this Interlude is the breathtaking views of Lake  Winnipesaukee from the Castle in the Clouds. The mansion—an architectural gem in the Arts and Crafts style—sits atop a mountain in the Ossipee Range.  The original estate of 1914 included over 6500 acres of mountain forest. Today, the house is surrounded by 4200 protected acres of forest. Two gate lodges, and a carriage house with stable serve the estate.

Formerly called Lucknow, the architectural and decorative designs exemplify the craftsman style, a variation of the  Arts and Crafts architectural genre that was popular in  England and the United States from the 1860s to the 1920s. The architectural elements of Lucknow have been deemed as to be eclectic, as if to deny the notion that an overall design philosophy guided Lucknow’s constructon; but craftsman styles were intentionally eclectic, drawing upon craft traditions of Europe and Asia. This glorious mansion is amazing and the setting is drop dead gorgeous! 

The craftsman style symbolized the moral capability of the Captains of American Industry to transcend the mass production industrial technology, which they used to build their fortunes, and to embrace eternal aesthetic standards. It symbolized social unity, rather than social division. Tom Plant built Lucknow with this philosophy. Lucknow is an architectural and decorative treasure—as well as historical lesson—for all.  

The home had many new things. a phone, and electricity powered by his own water powered generator.  He also had the first fire truck in Moultonboro, as well as having fire hydrants IN the house…. just in case, you know. He had a central vacuum system, a self cleaning stove, and a brine cooled refrigerator – way, way ahead of its time

Want a little gossip?  Now this has to be the most popular story about Mr. Plant and his first wife. They lived in a beautiful house in Massachusetts and had a very rocky marriage, but did stay married for quite a while. When Mr. Plant went away on a trip to France, and asked the first Mrs. Plant to go with him, she declined. While in France, Mr. Plant met Olive, a banker’s daughter and many years younger, and fell in love. After he returned to the states, the first Mrs. Plant came down to breakfast to find a million dollar check in her napkin roll, and Thomas walked out the front door. Needless to say, she gave him a divorce!

You probably know by now that I just love old houses – especially mansions! So when you visit be sure to note the hand painted windows depicting scenes from around the castle such as flowers, birds etc. in the lovely formal diningroom.  It is just one of the spectacularly understated elegant design features you’ll find throughout the “castle”.

This enchanted few days is just brimming with wonderful new and exciting things to see and do.   Fall is the perfect time to visit New England so what are you waiting for?  Review the attached itinerary and make sure your binoculars and camera are in good shape as you prepare for a truly grand sojourn and call to make your reservations right away.  Wonderful memories are just waiting….

Northern New England Grand Getaway (click here for itinerary)
September 16-21, 2012  (6 days, 5 nights)

• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

•For immediate service, please call (317) 913-0387 or email us
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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)

• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

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Banff  National Park was Canada’s first established national park and is situated in the very heart of the Rocky Mountains. Boasting a gorgeous amalgamation of coniferous forests, dramatic mountain terrain, ice fields and glaciers, it is a haven for sightseers, nature lovers and all kinds of adventurers.  It boasts unparalleled mountain scenery nestled in the heart of the magnificent Canadian Rockies. I’ve been told that you are likely to see a grizzly bears, caribou and wolves!   The Park astonishes all who visit it with its sheer natural beauty and scenery.  A photographer’s dream!

On this escorted Interlude, you will marvel at the emerald waters of Lake Louise, walk amongst the flower-filled areas at Sunshine Meadows, and drive beneath the towering jagged peaks lining theIcefields Parkway. Snow-capped peaks, glistening glaciers and sweeping vistas are just one part of the allure that is calling you to Banff.  Lake Louise has become symbolic of the quintessentially Canadian mountain scene. This alpine lake, known for its sparkling blue waters, is situated at the base of the very impressive glacier-clad peaks that have long been at the heart of Canadian mountaineering. Lake Louise is a protected mountain destination that is located very close to world-class hotels, postcard perfect lodges, dining options and all kinds of activities. Just the photo ops make this destination a real MUST.  And to sweeten the pot, the assortment of shops and boutiques in both Banff and Lake Louise make this adventure a treasure-trove of opportunity.

Banff’s only Gondola takes you up to the top of Sulphur Mountain where you will enjoy a panoramic view of the Canadian Rockies.  Whisking you up to an elevation of 7,486 feet in about an 8 minute ride, the Sulphur Mountain Gondola gets you to a summit with some of the most incredible views of Banff and the mountains surrounding it,  and, of course, the proverbial gift shop. You may have an opportunity to walk on the boardwalk to the next peak and the observation decks.  Because it is usually colder at the top, I suggest that you dress in layers so you can comfortably enjoy the landscapes.

As you travel along the Trans Canada Highway you’ll have the opportunity to see one of the greatest engineering feats of the modern world – the Spiral Tunnels. The famous Spiral Tunnels on the CP Rail Line were opened on September 1st, 1909. The route called for two tunnels driven in three-quarter circles into the valley walls. The construction and extra track effectively doubled the length of the climb and reduced the gradient to 2.2%. The labor force to build these tunnels through sheer rock amounted to about a thousand, and the cost was about 1.5 million Canadian dollars. This is one of the steepest, most scenic railway lines in North America, crossing the Kicking Horse River, and running under Mount Ogden and Cathedral Mountain, towards the town of Field, BC.

On the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1) there is a very interesting display detailing the history of the tunnels, how they were made, and how they work. If you arrive at the right time, you may see a train using the tunnels. It’s indescribable, as the train looks like a snake in a coil. Unfortunately though there isn’t any consistent time when you’ll see a train pass through, so it’s up to pure luck, I’ll keep my fingers crossed!

This luscious escorted vacation puts you in six National Parks, exposes you to many once in a lifetime experiences and offers great dining, shopping and sightseeing.  Please review the entire itinerary and check your passport to be sure it’s valid before signing up for this impressive north western sojourn.

U.S. and Canadian National Parks (click here for itinerary)
August 11-19, 2012 (9 days, 8 nights)

• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

•For immediate service, please call (317) 913-0387 or email us
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Typically a Swiss lake steamer is either a modern diesel-driven boat or a traditional steam-driven sidewheeler. A few of the older steamers date back to the early part of the century.  Be on the lookout for the red Swiss Flag whipping above the wakes of these immaculate white vessels as they make their way across the sparkling water.

But that’s only the tip of your travel experience!!  You will be boarding rail trains, cog-rails, funiculars, scenic intermountain cable cars and a Postbus.  Not to mention, strolling through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. No jumping into an automobile to go somewhere…here you will experience firsthand all modes of travel – delectably un-American in concept.

PostBus is the leading bus company in Switzerland’s public transport network. It incorporates more than 2,000 vehicles at its disposal. Its trademark – the three-tone horn and the yellow Postbuses – are part of Switzerland’s cultural identity. The PostBus brand embodies the values of reliability, security and trust.  You might want to include this as a great Trivia question for your friends when you return from this awe-inspiring Interlude.

Also included in this tour is an adventurous sojourn aboard cog railways.  Cog railways were an important part of the Swiss Alps infrastructure meant to help even non-climbers access the high alpine environment and enjoy the breath-taking scenery of the highest peaks of  Switzerland. These cog railways are among the first of the many mountain railways and cable cars in the European Alps. Some of these cog railways belong to the most visited tourist attractions in Europe and you will share this sightseeing adventure with people from all over the world. And…have your camera at the ready for some of the most delicious vistas your eyes will ever feast upon.

One of the most unique and daring means of travel in Switzerland is via a funicular, also known as an inclined plane or cliff railway. Not being familiar with the word, I had to investigate and find out how these work.

The basic principle of funicular operation is that two cars are permanently attached to each other by a cable, which runs through a pulley at the top.  at the top of the incline. Counterbalancing of the two cars, with one ascending and one descending, minimizes the energy needed to lift the ascending car. Winching is normally done by an electric drive which turns the pulley.  Sheave wheels guide the cable to and from the drive mechanism and the incline cars. Now we know.  Sounds wondrously fascinating!

Part of this marvelous travel package includes a 7-day travel pass called the Berner Oberland Pass. The Bernese Oberland is one of the most famous regions inSwitzerland, having been discovered by British tourists in the nineteenth century. You will surely notice the strong British influence still felt in many of the old habits and manners which occur in this part of  Switzerland. Many of the hotels in Wengen and Grindelwald boast of a particular art noveau style that is a reminder of a former era.  The landscape in the Bernese Oberland is characterized by an intriguing mix of lakes, pristine alpine meadows and huge, wild mountains – all waiting to be captured by you and your camera.

Whether you are walking through an alpine forest, strolling through picturesque villages and hamlets, riding the scenic Swiss rail train, enjoying the Cog rail, sightseeing from a Cable Car or chugging across shimmering waters on a Lake Steamer, your Interlude to Switzerland will be overflowing with awe inspiring landscapes and fun-filled adventures.  Just breathing the clear mountain air will fill you with a sense of well-being.  There is so much to see and do on this escorted vacation and it is just waiting there for you.  Please check out the full itinerary and call soon to reserve your Swiss Sojourn.

Backroads of Switzerlans (click here for details)
9 Days, 8 Nights Departures:  July 30 – August 7, 2012

• Guaranteed departure (plan in confidence!)
• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

Eadie, Interlude Blog Team

•For immediate service, please call (317) 913-0387 or email us 
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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!

The Yellowstone Experience: Wildlife Safari click here for details
7 Days, 6 Nights
Departures:  June 11, June 18, August 6, 2012

• Guaranteed departure (plan in confidence!)
• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

Jo Ann, President, Interlude Tours

•For immediate service, please call (317) 913-0387 or email us
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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)

• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)

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

 

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

• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

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

Lantern festivals are deeply rooted in Chinese history and myth, dating back to the ancient dynasties of more than 2,000 years ago. In modern times, lantern festivals traditionally culminate the 15-day celebration of the Chinese New Year. Giant, ornate lanterns of complex design fill cities with light in vivid, festive spectacles.

Luckily, a wise man past the village made the suggestion that every house should hang red lanterns around the house, setup campfire on the street, explode the bamboo firecracker, make fireworks on 14th, 15th, and 16th lunar days. In this way, Jade Emperor might think all village people die under fire and all the villagers can save their lives and properties.

On the night of 15th lunar day, the troop coming down from the heaven looked at the village that was ablaze and returned back to heaven to report to the Jade Emperor. Satisfied with the result, the Jade Emperor decided not to burn down the village. From that day on, people celebrated the anniversary on the 15th lunar day every year by carrying red lanterns on the streets and exploding firecrackers and fireworks.

I love legend and folklore but even better is participating in a continuing practice of such tales. The Missouri Botanical Garden;is featuring the first Chinese Lantern Festival to be hosted in the United States, and only the second to find a home in North America AND you are invited to attend this spectacular event when you join Interlude on a unique journey to St. Louis. The Gardens feature 26 bigger than life lantern scenes forged from steel and silk, including images of dragons, palaces and Terracotta warriors. The festival hails from Zigong, the lantern capital of China and coincides with the Garden’s attentions to China.  Each lantern design is full of Chinese tradition, symbolism and meaning. Greeting visitors at the Garden’s entrance is a welcoming gate of dragon pillars, Hua Biao, modeled after a more than 500-year-old pair at the Tiananmen Square in China. The original Chinese gates were built to activate the good luck of the Ching dynasty; similarly, the Garden’s Hua Biao represents good prospect and turns bad luck into good. Standing sentry at the Linnean Plaza entrance, The Terracotta Warrior set features four ten-foot-tall figures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China.Chinese opera, an art form rich in tradition that combines music, dance and song, is celebrated with masks in The Faces of Chinese Opera, the only indoor lantern display.

In deference to the 2012 Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac there are several elaborate lantern prominently featuring the dragon, a mythical creature and cultural symbol of Chinese nationality that represents hopes and wishes for a better future. A swirling dragon embraces a pillar rising from the waters of the Garden’s Latzer Fountain. Intricate porcelain dragons, created by stringing and stackinghundreds of porcelain dishes in long, curving rows to form a scaled body, stretch the length of the reflecting pools located between the famed Climatron® conservatory and the Garden’s original stone gate entrance. The Nine-Dragon Mural uses color, expression and emotion to replicate the artistic architecture of a similar sculpture in Beijing.  This is only a sampling of what you will experience in this magical place where beauty and artistry prevail.  The enormity and complexity of these artistic lanterns are a once in a lifetime opportunity for you to observe.

However, your Interlude adventure has so much more in store for you.  How about theatre and a backstage tour – can’t do that everyday!! And you’ll visit the legendary St. Louis Basilica, where in 1912, installation of mosaics in the interior began. Completed in 1988, the mosaics collectively contain 41.5 million glass tesserae pieces in more than 7,000 colors. Covering 83,000 square feet (7,700 m2), it is one of the largest mosaic collections in the world  - truly magnificent mosaic art. 

Need more? Also featured is a guided tour of “The Hill” a local Italian American neighborhood highlighting traditional Italian markets and bakeries….deliciously delectable!!  This tour even lets you follow your personal preferences by allowing time to explore either, the St. Louis Art Museum, the Zoo or the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial or to shop at the St. Louis Galleria with shuttle service provided. 

Our St. Louis escorted sojourn celebrates some of the most unique and diversely impressive venues in one central location – close to home!! Please read the attached full itinerary and join us for three days of incredible art, delicious cuisine, and fantastic sightseeing.  Who knew St. Louis held so much around that world famous arch!

Chinese Lantern Festival (click here for itinerary)
June 20-22, 2012 (3 days, 2 nights)

• Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
• Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
• Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)

Eadie – Interlude blog team

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