Monday 26 December 2011

8 Day Madrid, Valencia & Barcelona by Rail 2012

FASTDEAL #T41705

8 days, departing US June 11, 2012 with Gate 1 Travel
Land price*: $689 Call 800-680-2858 for air add-on

Please call 800-680-2858 or click here to request a call from an agent.

800-680-2858 Tour Map 800-680-2858

800-680-2858 Tour Itinerary 800-680-2858

Day 1 Depart the USA
Depart your hometown for Madrid. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey.

Day 2 Arrive in Madrid, Spain
Arrive in Madrid and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the balance of your day at leisure.

Day 3 Madrid
Enjoy a full day at leisure or take part in an optional Half Day Panoramic Madrid tour ($31). Today's panoramic tour takes you to view the classical and modern squares of the city. See the Oriente, España, University Campus, Casa de Campo, Mayor Street, Villa and Mayor Squares, Puerta del Sol, Neptuno, Atocha, memorial Retiro Park, the Bullring, and the Colón. Continue to view the city's newer realms, with its modern buildings, gardens, and large avenues reaching the Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium (one of the largest in Europe). Continue to view the squares of Castilla and La Cibeles, and the famed Gran Via.

Departs at 9:45 a.m. Pick-up and drop-off from terminal at Plaza de Oriente, 8. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time.

Also, you can take an optional Half Day Toledo tour ($63). Today, enjoy a half day tour of Toledo, the "Museum City." Overflowing with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Toledo was once the capital, spiritual, and intellectual center of Spain. Here, in one of Europe's oldest cities, enjoy a walking tour among its most famous monuments, including visits to the Cathedral, St. Tome Church (housing El Greco's The Burial of Count Orgaz), and the Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue. Also admire the city's famous handcrafted work, the "Damasquinado."

Departs at 3:00 p.m. Pick-up and drop-off from terminal at Plaza de Oriente, 8. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time.

Day 4 Madrid - Valencia
Transfer by rail to Valencia and your hotel. Spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 5 Valencia
Spend the day at leisure.

Day 6 Valencia - Barcelona
Transfer by rail to Barcelona and your hotel. Spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 7 Barcelona
Enjoy a full day at leisure or take an optional Half Day Classic Barcelona City Tour ($65). Drive via Layetana and view the Cathedral, Gothic Quarter, and Plaza Sant Jaume en route to visit the Port and Olympic Village. Continue to Montjuic (Hill of the Jews) for panoramic views of the city and port, and tours of the Olympic Stadium and Sant Jordi Palace. Also visit the "Poble Espanol" (Spanish Village) to observe its regional architecture characteristic of early Spain. Here you will have the opportunity to taste the famous Catalan Cava (sparkling wine).

Departs at 9:00 a.m. Pick-up and drop-off from Pullmantur Bus Terminal at 645 Gran Via, Bruc St. corner. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure.

Day 8 Depart Barcelona
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
800-680-2858 All This Included 800-680-2858

Discover the history and culture of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona with this amazing package. In Madrid you could plan to visit the Royal Palace which is the largest palace in Western Europe, and is also surrounded by several splendid parks. Perhaps spend the day at the Prado Museum. It was one of the world's first public art galleries when it opened in 1819 and houses an impressive collection of European art. You could search for and devour chocolate con churros, a local Madrid specialty popular for breakfast in the morning or as a late night snack, or walk the streets and admire the many splendid fountains that are found throughout the city. From Madrid take the train to Valencia.

In Valencia, you could spend days in the City of Arts and Sciences complex which includes an IMAX cinema, an interactive science museum with a projection hall, the largest aquarium in Europe, and a performing center for the arts. Perhaps try a plate of paella which originated in this region, or you could go in search of horchata which is a popular local drink made of tigernut, water, and sugar. The Botanic Garden is another beautiful place you could visit that has beautiful grounds, space for public concerts, and is open all year-round. From Valencia take the train to Barcelona.

In Barcelona, experience the beautiful markets and active nightlife by walking along Las Ramblas which always has something going on. Perhaps go to see the Sagrada Familia, a legacy left by Architect Antoni Gaudi, whose design created the effect that the church is melting. Choose to visit a pintxo bar and sample platters of bite-sized meals similar to tapas, or head off in search of a local flamenco show. This independent tour offers unbeatable value and flexibility in your schedule, so book today and save on the trip of a lifetime!

6 nights accommodations in your choice of hotels
Transportation between cities via Standard rail with reserved seats.
Breakfast daily

Not Included: Airport taxes & fees, transfers, optional tours, and gratuities.
800-680-2858 Accommodations on this Tour 800-680-2858

Madrid: Hotel Ganivet
Valencia: Expo Hotel
Barcelona: Hotel Aranea
800-680-2858 Notes 800-680-2858

Upgrade to First Class rail is available.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary.
Please ask your Vacations To Go travel counselor for more information.
10 Day Stockholm with 7 Day St. Petersburg & Baltics Cruise 2012

FASTDEAL #T28259

10 days, departing US July 5, 2012 with Gate 1 Travel
Land price*: $979 With air from New York*: $2,179

Please call 800-680-2858 or click here to request a call from an agent.

800-680-2858 Tour Map 800-680-2858

800-680-2858 Tour Itinerary 800-680-2858

DAY 1, Thursday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Sweden. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment.

DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Stockholm
Arrive and transfer to your hotel on your own. Balance of the day at leisure.

DAY 3, Saturday - Embark Cruise
Enjoy the morning at leisure in Stockholm before transferring to the port. Situated on 14 islands on Lake Mälaren, the city is often referred to as the "Venice of the North," yet it maintains a unique character. Don't miss a visit to the Gamla Stan (Old Town), where beautiful cobblestone streets and buildings dating from the 13th century abound. Alternatively, check out the many small shops, boutiques and galleries that line the streets. The ship sails at 5:00 pm. Sail overnight to Helsinki. (B,D)

DAY 4, Sunday - Arrive in Helsinki
At 10:00 am arrive to Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Helsinki is an elegant city full of wonderful architecture ranging from medieval and Neo-Classical, to innovative modern design. Don't forget to visit the market square, known as the kauppatori, lined with graceful buildings and featuring the famed Havis Amanda mermaid statue. Sail for St. Petersburg at 6:00 pm. (B,L,D)

DAY 5, Monday - Full Day in St. Petersburg
This morning at 7:00 am, arrive in St. Petersburg, one of the most spectacular cities in Russia. St. Petersburg was originally built as a fortress in the 18th century, and grew into a bustling city featuring beautiful palaces, churches, parks and squares. Be sure not to miss the Hermitage Museum, home to one of the largest and richest collections of Western art in the world. Originally the personal gallery of Catherine the Great, the museum's vast collection includes priceless works by artists such as Michelangelo, da Vinci, Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet. These masterpieces are displayed amid the fittingly opulent architectural design of the museum. At midnight, set sail to Riga. (B,L,D)

DAY 6, Tuesday - At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea aboard the ship as you sail across the Baltic Sea to Latvia. Take the chance to explore the amazing amenities of your ship. Spend the day relaxing at the onboard spa, take in a show at the two tiered theater or try your luck at the casino this evening. (B,L,D)

DAY 7, Wednesday - Full Day in Riga, Latvia
At 7:00 am arrive to Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia. Stroll the cobbled streets, admire the medieval churches and Art Noueau buildings, or relax in one of the sprawling parks. Be sure to stop by the Riga Cathedral, the largest in the Baltics. At 4:30 pm sail for Gdansk. (B,L,D)

DAY 8, Thursday - Afternoon in Gdansk, Poland
Today dock in the enchanting port of Gdansk at 11:00 am. The city features an eclectic blend of traditional influences from Germany and Poland with a modern twist. Walk along the historic waterfront or visit the largest Gothic castle in Europe, located in nearby Malbork. Perhaps pick up some souvenirs at the Great Armory, a Renaissance building that now houses a shopping mall and art academy. Sail to Visby at 7:00 pm. (B,L,D)

DAY 9, Friday - Full Day in Visby, Sweden
Arrive in Visby on the island of Gotland at 9:00 am. This small city has preserved its medieval heritage and is a popular vacation spot for Scandinavians See the well preserved 13th century Ring Wall surrounding the city, or explore in the island's natural beauty at one of the sandy beaches, green meadows or dripstone caves. Sail for Stockholm around 6:00 pm. (B,L,D)

DAY 10, Saturday - Depart for the USA
This morning, arrive to Stockholm at 7:00 am. Disembark the ship and transfer independently to the airport for your departure flight. (B)
800-680-2858 All This Included 800-680-2858

Experience Stockholm with a St. Petersburg and Baltic cruise combined together in this incredible package. In Stockholm, you could walk through Gamla Stan, the oldest part of the city which has beautiful cobblestone streets and plenty of shops and cafes. Perhaps visit the Vasa Ship museum which houses the world's oldest preserved ship, or enjoy sitting in one of the many cafes and trying the special of the day.

From Stockholm embark on your cruise. Compare the famous architecture of Helsinki with the awe-inspiring palaces and churches in St. Petersburg. Enjoy the beautiful parks and outdoor activities available in Riga, and admire the beautiful artistry of Gdansk from the largest Gothic castle in Europe to the fine amber goods. While cruising, take the opportunity to use all the amenities your ship offers. Explore the many themed bars and lounges, enjoy a show at the theater, or use the world-class fitness center. Take advantage of this incredible offer and book today to make your next vacation a reality!

Round trip flights NYC-Stockholm
Airline fuel surcharges
8 nights accommodations
Hotel to port transfer
21 meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners

Saturday 10 December 2011

Palma Cathedral

Palma Cathedral
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

La Seu can also refer to Saint Mary of Valencia Cathedral.

"La Seu" Cathedral of Palma.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, more commonly referred to as La Seu, is a Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral located in Palma, Majorca, Spain, built on the site of a pre-existing Arab mosque. It is 121 metres long, 55 metres wide and its nave is 44 metres tall. Designed in the Catalan Gothic style but with Northern European influences, it was begun by King James I of Aragon in 1229 but finished only in 1601. It sits within the old city of Palma atop the former citadel of the Roman city, between the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and the episcopal palace. It also overlooks the Parc de la Mar and the Mediterranean Sea.

In 1901, fifty years after a restoration of the Cathedral had started, Antoni Gaudí was invited to take over the project. While some of his ideas were adopted – moving the choir stalls from the middle nave to be closer to the altar, as well as a large canopy – Gaudí abandoned his work in 1914 after an argument with the contractor. The planned changes were essentially cosmetic rather than structural, and the project was cancelled soon after.