Jazz &
Blues TouR
Jazz & Blues Tour
Cuba, New Orleans and Mississippi River Cruise
Also including Memphis and Nashville
Tour Dates
21 August 2015 to
16 September 2015
CuBA
10 nights
New orleans
4 nights
mississippi cruise
7 nights
memphis & nashville
3 nights
This remarkable itinerary brings together two cultures but one theme, which is the music
and the rhythm of the wonderful people of the island nation of Cuba and the people of
America’s Deep South.
Limited to 40 Delegates and Partners
Tour Leaders: Mike & Yvonne Lazarow
CuBA
For too many people, Cuba is nothing more than a beach resort. That’s
crazy; the island practically buzzes with energy and you should do
likewise—get moving. We will journey through the culture-soaked
streets of Trinidad and Old Havana for your fill of rum, cigars and
iconic food.
The Caribbean Republic of Cuba consists of the 766-mile long island
of Cuba. Perched at the mouth of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s just 110
miles from Florida. Colourful capital Havana, with its pulsating nightlife,
proud culture and beautiful architecture, is the heart of the country.
Today, Havana is the heart of the nation’s busy political, scientific and
cultural life. Museums, theaters and concert halls, art galleries and
cultural institutions are popular venues, while some—such as the
National Ballet of Cuba and National Folkloric Dance Group—have
won international acclaim. Both day and night, Havana continues to
thrill visitors anew.
Music is probably the Cuban artistic expression most extended
throughout the world. Cuban music began to transcend the national
boundaries at the beginning of the 20th Century and ever since,
the different rhythms of the island have been acclaimed with great
success in different arenas. Of all the arts, music is perhaps the
one which has influenced the personality of Cuban people the most,
evolving quickly and with great force.
The most disseminated popular Cuban rhythms are the son, danzon,
cha-cha-cha, mambo and salsa, a derivation of the son. As an
example of the universality of Cuban culture, there is also Cuban jazz,
Cuban hip hop and rap, whose roots can be traced to American jazz
and Jamaican reggae.
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Despite its being one of the last remaining Communist countries,
visitors to Cuba are greeted with salsa beats, exotic food and a
carnival atmosphere. It is a true assault on the senses.
The tobacco-growing area of Viñales is fascinating to visit and Trinidad
is considered the Museum city of Cuba and for this reason, in 1988,
Unesco declared Trinidad “World Heritage”.
Cuba’s rich history can be seen in the impressive colonial architecture
found in major towns such as Havana and Santiago de Cuba. It is a
fascinating country to visit with a wholly cosmopolitan attitude and
locals who, despite all of the odds, have a really positive outlook on life.
AMERICA'S
DEEp SouTH
From the mysterious bayous of upbeat Louisiana, to the strumming sounds
of rock ‘n’ roll Memphis, we will journey into a land shaped by its history
and music on an unforgettable cruise through the deep South. After flying
in from Havana we will spend four nights in fabulous New Orleans soaking
up the music and culture of this remarkable city.
Then we board the luxurious boutique-sized paddle-wheeler, the Queen
of the Mississippi for 7 nights as it meanders up the Mississippi River
uncovering a region bursting with fascinating history, unique cultures
and sumptuous cuisine. From New Orleans we pas s through landscapes
marked by Civil War and dotted with historic plantations all the way to
Memphis, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll.
We will pass through the states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee
visiting towns such as Oak Alley, Baton Rouge, Natchez and Vicksburg.
In Memphis we disembark the ship and spend a night in the iconic
Peabody Hotel. Naturally no visit to Memphis is complete without a visit to
Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. Then it’s off to B.B.King’s Blues Club
on Beale Street.
Then it’s off to Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry House and a visit to
The Country Music Hall of Fame. Our tour ends with a final farewell Country
and Western Dinner.
If you love jazz, blues, country and western, rock ‘n’ roll and great
southern food plus a whole lot more, then this tour is for you.
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CuBA
HIGHLIGHTS
Cruise through Havana in a vintage automobile, watch local experts
making the famous Cuban cigar, bliss out on a beautiful beach
overlooking the blue Caribbean, cruise along the Bay of Cienfuegos,
dance salsa and enjoy live music, explore colonial alleyways and
architecture, walk in Che Guevara’s footsteps
Day 1 Australia/Havana (D)
Arrive into Los Angeles and transfer to our flight to Mexico City where we will
overnight before flying into Havana the following day. Direct flights from the
USA to Cuba are not allowed, hence the necessity to travel via Mexico. We
arrive mid-afternoon with immediate transfer to hotel. Welcome drinks and
Orientation Meeting followed by dinner at hotel.
Overnight: Parque Central Hotel or similar
Day 2 Havana Full day guided tour of both Old and New Havana
(B,L,D)
Famous for its elegant squares, this tour will take you to three of the most
famous attractions. We will make our start at Havana’s Cathedral, visit the
home of the Captains General (now the city’s museum), walk on to the
splendid church of San Francisco, and complete our tour in Plaza Vieja amid
the craftsmen and galleries. On the way we’ll find time to stop for gallery or
studio visits, and sometimes explore a side street or do some people watching.
Also included is a stop at Johnson Pharmacy in Old Havana.
Following lunch at local favourite Restaurant El Patio, we’ll board the luxury
coaches and cover some of the more important parts of ‘modern’ Havana,
stopping at particularly interesting or attractive buildings, followed by a visit
to the Museum de la Revolucian.
In the evening, depart the hotel for Morro – Cabaña Historic and Military Park
for the Cannon Ceremony. Built in 1558, this ceremony at Castillo de la Real
Fuerza, sees men clothed in the typical dress of the 16th century. They march
on the top of the fort wall and at exactly 9pm, they fire a canon, signifying the
closing of the gates to Havana, originally necessitated by the presence
of pirates. After the ceremony, dine at “La Divina Pastora” restaurant.
Overnight: Parque Central Hotel
Day 3 Havana-Viñales (B,L,D)
Following breakfast, our first of two Business Sessions will take place
in the Hotel’s Salon Trocadero, concluding at noon.
Following lunch, a short trip west brings us to “The Garden Province”
of Pinar del Rio and to the Valley of Viñales.
First stop is Las Terrazas, located in the Sierra del Rosario Mountains, 70km
west of Havana. This small settlement is basically an artists’ colony, established
in 1971 around a lake, and takes its name from the hillside terraces planted
with pines. This area of around 5,000 hectares was declared Cuba’s first
UNESCO sanctioned biosphere, a scheme successful in aiding and sustaining
rural economy. The buildings in the Las Terrazas Community have been
designed to blend with their surroundings.
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Following some time for exploration, journey onwards to Viñales, arriving in the
early evening. Creole Dinner at La Ermita Hotel.
Overnight: Los Jazmines Hotel or similar
Day 4 Vinales (B,L,D)
Following an American breakfast at your hotel, depart on a Rum, Tobacco
& Mogotes tour (Depart hotel: 8.30am/Return hotel: 2.30pm approx.)
Millions of years ago, underground rivers cut tunnels through the limestone
hills. When the roofs collapsed, strange hills or ‘mogotes’ were formed. The
iron-rich, red soil now creates the perfect environment for growing some of the
best tobacco in the world. Visit a tobacco plantation and cigar factory. Continue
on to the Prehistoric Mural painted on a rock face. It is a 120 by 180 metre
fresco, the work of the artist Leovigildo Gonzalez, which traces the history of
life on earth and in the ocean.
After lunch, the afternoon is free for exploration. On Viñales’ main plaza
there is a cultural centre and a municipal museum which may be of interest.
Overnight: Los Jazmines Hotel
Day 5 Viñales (B,L,D)
Following breakfast, the second and final Business Session will take place
until noon at your hotel.
At the conclusion of your session, the coach will depart the hotel, stopping at
Palenque de los Cimarrones (Runaway Slave) Restaurant for a delicious country
style lunch. Following lunch the coach will return to Havana where you’ll enjoy a
delicious Dinner and Show at the Tropicana Club.
Overnight: Parque Central Hotel
Day 6 Santa Clara (B,L,D)
After breakfast, head east along the Carretera Central to the city of Santa Clara,
a key location in the history of the Revolution. On your way into town visit three
key historical sites, including the massive Che Guevara monument before
settling in for the night. Lunch included whilst on the tour.
After exploring some of the revolutionary sites and finishing your lunch,
continue on to Sancti Spiritus, one of the best preserved cities in the Caribbean
from the time of the sugar trade. It was one of the original seven Cuban cities
founded in the 1500’s by the Spanish. The church and the picturesque houses
along Calle El Llano, along with the Puente Yayayo bridge are all national
monuments.
In the evening, continue onto Trinidad (approximately 1 hour) where dinner
awaits you at the hotel.
Overnight: Trinidad del Mar Hotel
Day 7 Trinidad (B,L,D)
This morning following breakfast, take some time to explore Trinidad. This
’museum town’ is reminiscent of the Spanish colonial era, with Baroque
church towers, wrought iron gates, cobbled streets and tiled roof tops. Many
of the buildings retain their traditional character and are painted in beautiful
pastel shades.
After lunch, at “Meson del Regidor” discover Cuba’s African connection as
you drive to “Valle de los Ingenios”– Sugar Mill Valley. Here the economic
importance of sugar and its link to the slave trade are explained. Visit the Torre
de Manacas-Iznaga Sugar mill, one of the original sugar plantation mansions.
The evening has been left free for you to have dinner at the hotel. Later in the
evening take to the streets for a night of music, dancing and fun.
Overnight: Trinidad del Mar Hotel
Day 8 Trinidad (B,L,D)
Following breakfast at your hotel, depart on a guided Walking Tour of Trinidad
(Depart hotel: 9.00am/Return hotel: 12.00 noon approx.)
With your expert guide you’ll explore Trinidad’s historical quarter including
the Romantic Museum, the beautifully preserved 18th century mansion of
the Brunet Family dating from 1741 and the Museum of Archaeology and
Natural Sciences. This town is a perfect relic of the colony’s early days,
with beautifully preserved streets and buildings, and barely a trace of the
20th century anywhere!
After lunch, opt for an Architectural and Archaeological tour of over 70 sites.
Or if an afternoon on an unspoiled and pristine white sand beach sounds
like what you’re looking for, then head to nearby Playa Ancón for a day at
the beachside.
Overnight: Trinidad del Mar Hotel
Day 9 Playa Giron – Havana (B,L,D)
Following breakfast, take a short ferry crossing across the bay to Castillo
de Jagua. Located in the entrance of the Bay of Cienfuegos, the fortress was
built in the 1740s by the Spanish to protect the bay from pirates. It is one of
the youngest and most beautiful cities of Cuba. The streets are lined with
mansions well past their best but with glimpses of their true beauty.
Lunch is planned for the Palacio de Valle Restaurant.
After lunch we continue onto Playa Giron, the scene of the attempted
invasion of Cuba by American forces. Along the way we stop to visit the
crocodile farm at Guama.
In the evening, transfer back to Havana, (approx 2.5 hours) and enjoy
dinner at a local restaurant upon arrival.
Overnight: Hotel Parque Central
Day 10 Havana (B,L,D)
Following a leisurely breakfast, we spend the day uncovering the history and
culture of La Habana Vieja in style, taking a classic American car tour through
the city. The Palacio de los Capitanes Generales is located on the Plaza de
Armas, which now houses the Museo de La Ciudad. You will find the oldest
colonial fortress on the plaza’s northeast sector, the Castillo Real de la Fuerza,
whose construction began in 1558.
Havana
Viñales
Las Terrazas
CUBA
Santa Clara
Topes de
Collantes
Playa Giron
Trinidad
Cienfuegos
In the evening we get a chance to stretch our legs as we take a salsa
class before attending a Farewell Feast and drinks at the Restaurant
Café del Oriente.
Overnight: Hotel Parque Central
Day 11 Havana (B)
Early morning group transfer to airport for flight to New Orleans via Toronto
arriving early evening in New Orleans.
Day 11 continued. Arrive New Orleans (B,D)
On arrival in vibrant New Orleans, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred
to your hotel. Enjoy a light dinner after an arduous travel day.
Three Nights: The Roosevelt New Orleans
Day 12 New Orleans (B,D)
Past, Present and Futures introductory tour of the city then you are free in the
afternoon to relax or explore on your own. Tonight, enjoy a truly unique way of
travelling from your hotel to dinner as you are led by a traditional Dixieland
Jazz marching band through the streets of New Orleans in your very own
second line parade. The iconic Antoines Restaurant in the city’s French Quarter
has a 174 year-old legacy and is still owned and operated by fifth generation
relatives of the original founder. The world-renowned French-Creole cuisine,
impeccable service & unique atmosphere have combined to create an
unmatched dining experience in New Orleans since 1840.
Day 13 New Orleans (B,L)
This morning undertake a Gourmet Walking Tour of the French Quarter
ending up at a New Orleans Cooking School where we will have lunch. Later,
enjoy some time at leisure to further explore the city as you choose before
an experience at the legendary Preservation Hall, the spiritual home of Jazz.
Dinner is at leisure.
Day 14 New Orleans (B,L,D)
Enjoy an insider’s look at the colourful preparations for New Orleans’ famous
annual Mardi Gras this morning. Lunch and the afternoon is at leisure before
experience the Garden District Grandeur Mansion – private dinner in a mansion
including a Jazz Trio.
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HIGHLIGHTS
THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI RIVER
There’s simply no better position from which to experience the
Mississippi’s natural majesty firsthand. This vast working river still
supports various industries and plays host to an array of intoxicating
scenery and a range of wildlife.
THE FINEST SHIP CRUISING THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Harking back to the grandeur of the Steamboat era, the Queen of the
Mississippi is the most modern paddle-wheeler on this iconic waterway.
The ship’s charming exterior belies a sophisticated interior that presents
every 21st-century comfort and convenience imaginable.
Day 15 Embark Mississippi River Cruise (B,L,D)
Today we board our luxury small-ship paddle-wheeler for the start of the cruise
along one of America’s most famous rivers - the Mississippi. Enjoy lunch and
settle in and enjoy some time to explore before later heading to the Dining
Room to indulge in a delightful Welcome Dinner.
Day 16 Oak Alley
(B,L,D)
After breakfast, you’ll disembark at Oak Alley – a historic mansion and
plantation located in the community of Vacherie, Louisiana. Here, wander
under a 240-metre-long canopy of towering oak trees that were planted in
the early 18th century. Later, enjoy a tour of the wonderfully restored Greekrevival-style antebellum mansion and its impressive grounds, including several
reconstructed slave quarters.
Day 17 Baton Rouge, St Francisville, (B,L,D)
Disembark in Baton Rouge and join a local guide for a historic city tour
that includes the Louisiana Capitol Museum. Alternatively, enjoy a guided
tour of the LSU Rural Life Museum, located on the Burden Research
Plantation and experience the life of the state’s earliest settlers. Later, head
to St Francisville to learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the Old South’s
wealthiest inhabitants.
Day 18 Natchez
(B,L,D)
On a Historic District Tour of Natchez, you’ll visit Longwood Mansion, an
octagonal house, and see many of the city’s restored buildings, including fine
examples of antebellum architecture. This afternoon, select your sightseeing
activity. Perhaps head to JN Stone House and be treated to a classical music
concert performed by the owner. Alternatively, learn about the life and times
of early cotton planters at Frogmore Plantation – a working cotton farm.
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Day 19 Vicksburg (B,L,D)
As the site of a 47-day siege during the American Civil War, this morning’s
port of call – Vicksburg, Mississippi – is bursting with history. On disembarking
here, explore the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the
famous campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. Take a narrated
coach tour of the battlefields then drop in to the visitor centre. Later, return to
your ship and set out cruising towards the city of Memphis.
Day 20 Cruising the Mississippi River (B,L,D)
Take advantage of a full day on the river, passing the sights of Arkansas on
your left and Mississippi on your right. You might like to take part in some of
the many activities, lectures and presentations being run, or simply relax in
one of your ship’s comfortable public areas.
Day 21 Memphis (B,L,D)
Disembark this morning in Memphis, Tennessee – the city that many consider
to be the home of rock’n’roll. Here, take in the sights during a guided tour.
Then, after lunch back on board, head to Graceland – the former home of
Elvis Presley and today a National Historic Landmark. This evening, indulge
in a delicious dinner. Day 22 Disembark Mississippi River Cruise, Memphis (B,D)
Disembark for the final time and transfer to your hotel in Memphis. The rest
of the day is yours at leisure. This evening, head out to the world-famous
B.B. King’s Blues Club on Beale Street. Enjoy delicious dishes as you are
entertained by the in-house band playing Blues, Motown and Funk.
Overnight: The Peabody Memphis
Day 23 Memphis Nashville (B)
Travel to Nashville and take a backstage tour of the Ryman Auditorium – home
to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974 and also hosts an iconic weekly
stage concert and radio broadcast, showcasing the stars of country music.
Afterwards, on a city tour, discover the places that have earned Nashville its
reputation as the heartland of country music. This evening is then yours to
enjoy at leisure.
Overnight: Renaissance Nashville Hotel (2 nights)
Day 24 Nashville (B,D)
Today begins with a visit to The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Learn about the era during which the theatre hosted legends before enjoying
an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a special Country and Western Farewell
Dinner. After a delightful dinner of southern fare, perhaps embrace the
opportunity to learn to line dance and take part in this fun southern tradition. Day 25 Depart Nashville
Today, you’ll transfer to the airport for your onward flight or return home.
mississippi
Queen of the
mississippi
Owners Suite
Private Balcony 3rd/4th Deck
AAC Stateroom Private Balcony 4th Deck
AAL Stateroom
Private Balcony 3rd Deck
AAR Stateroom Private Balcony 2nd Deck
Meander up-river and experience an incredible cruise between
New Orleans and Memphis in America’s Deep South.
7 The Mighty Mississippi River
There’s simply no better position from which to experience the
Mississippi’s natural majesty firsthand. This vast working river still
supports various industries and plays host to an array of intoxicating
scenery and a range of wildlife.
7 Boutique River Cruising
On this journey you’ll travel with a maximum of just 150 other
guests, guaranteeing you a truly personalised and intimate river
cruising experience.
7 The Finest Ship Cruising the Mississippi River
Harking back to the grandeur of the Steamboat era, the Queen of the
Mississippi is the most modern paddle-wheeler on this iconic waterway.
The ship’s charming exterior belies a sophisticated interior that presents
every 21st-century comfort and convenience imaginable.
7 Public Areas – Room to Relax
Step into a world of elegance framed by lavish Victorian-style decor.
Providing ample space in which to relax, onboard public areas include
six spacious lounges; several outdoor deck areas; the Grand Dining
Room and Top Deck Café; the Mark Twain Library and chart room, a
gym and even a putting green.
Our Tour Package price is based on AAL Staterooms. All Staterooms
on offer have private balconies and the only difference is the actual
deck the stateroom is situated upon.
If you want an Owners Suite, which are substantially larger, or a
4th Deck Stateroom upgrade, tick the appropriate box on your
Registration Form. We only have 2x Owner’s Suites available.
Single travellers will be accommodated in AAR Staerooms.
7 Distinguished Onboard Dining
Expect first-class dining during every meal. Thanks to the expert onboard
chefs and locally inspired menus, complimentary hors d’oeuvres are
followed by freshly prepared gourmet cuisine each evening.
7 Complimentary Beverages
Beer and wine is served during lunch and dinner and throughout
cocktail hour, a wide range of beverages are available.
7 Spacious Accommodation
The Queen of the Mississippi boasts the largest staterooms on the river.
Finely appointed, each stateroom features an ensuite, as well
as everything from Wi-Fi internet access to satellite TV.
7 Accommodation options
Our Jazz & Blues tour has a limited range of cabin choices and upgraded
cabins will be allocated on a first in, best dressed basis.
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PRICING
Tour Package ( Cuba and Mississippi Cruise incl New Orleans,
Memphis and Nashville)
INCLUSIONS
3Hotel Room upgrade packages are available from some hotels on request
3Cabin upgrades on the Queen of the Mississippi are available on space
available
3Business Class upgrades are available on the flights to and from the USA.
3Package Prices for Cuba or the Mississippi only are available on request,
however preference will be given to those undertaking the full tour
Tour Package Includes
3All airport-hotel transfers when travelling with the group
325 night’s accommodation (Mexico, Cuba and America’s Deep South)
3Dining – Breakfast, lunches and dinners as specified
– Complimentary beer and wine at lunch and at dinner included
during the land and cruise segments
3First Class coaches with dedicated English-speaking guides and
tour escort
3All tours and entry fees as per the itinerary
3Seven-night cruise on the boutique-sized Queen of the Mississippi
3Generous allowance for wine, beer and soft drinks with meals
3Porterage
3All gratuities
3A comprehensive range of included shore excursions and sightseeing
whilst on the Queen of the Mississippi
PHARMACY SMALL GROUP TOURS
Mike & Yvonne Lazarow are the principals of the Jazz & Blues Tour. After
commencing our Small Group Tours in India a decade ago and with the
experience of fifteen tours behind us. We now travel to Central America and
the Southern States of the United States of America.. A feature of all our tours
are the little extras built into the program that ensures extraordinary value for
money. This tour is no exception.
ALL ENQUIRIES
Jazz & Blues Tour
IMPACT ORGANISATION (TRAVEL)
ABN 70 582 951 461
Suite 22, 799 Springvale Rd,
Mulgrave Vic 3170
20 August 2015 – 15 September 2015 (25 days)
Land and Cruise Only excluding all airfares
$18,750 Double/Twin
$4,500 Single Supplement
Indicative Economy Class airfares are $4,500 per person.
Australia to Cuba with 1x night in Mexico City. One cannot fly directly
from the USA into Cuba, hence the overnight stop in Mexico
Similarly there are no direct flights from Havana to New Orleans.
We have to fly via Toronto, Canada to regain entry into the USA.
The flight home would be from Nashville via Los Angeles then Australia.
Consult with Yvonne to arrange all flights and required flight upgrades.
NOT INCLUDED
3Passport and visa costs and associated courier costs
3Travel insurance (compulsory)
3Expenses of a personal nature such as personal phone calls,
room service and laundry
3Alcohol and refreshments not included in the program
3Single supplement for all hotels and train where applicable
IMPACT ORGANISATION (TRAVEL):
Impact Travel is an accredited travel company, well versed in handling
large and small travel groups. All monies are safeguarded in an appropriate
trust account.
DEPOSITS:
Please submit your registration form and $1500 per person deposit before
28 February 2015. As only a limited number of registrations can be accepted
for the tour, we strongly advise that you register as soon as possible. All
deposits are fully refundable if you decide to cancel before 30 April 2015
Ph: 03 9545 0825
Fax: 03 9561 9803
Email contacts:
[email protected]
[email protected]
MISC1881
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