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A refined worldwide escorted touring
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Day 6 AGRIGENTO - Taormina - Giardini Naxos
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Day 7
Giardini Naxos -
MT. EDNA - GIARDINI NAXOS
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Get
to know “Palermo in a Nutshell” and discover the city’s Moorish,
Norman, and Spanish architecture on a walking tour. Explore the Kalsa
district – home to Mafia legends and lush gardens – before continuing
your walk through Palermo’s famous landmarks such as the Fontana
Pretoria, the Quattro Canti, and the Cathedral. This evening visit a
medieval palace, where a countess guides you through her family’s home,
joining you for an aperitif and hors d’oeuvres. 
Visit
the nearby hilltop town of Monreale (UNESCO), ascending on foot to its
12th-century cathedral for a guided tour of its majestic Byzantine
mosaics. Then, it’s your choice! Explore the cathedral’s cloisters,
taking in their serene atmosphere of the monastic complex -OR- ascend
the southern tower to the panoramic terraces for a bird’s-eye view over
Palermo. Travel over rolling hills and peaceful farmland to the town of
Agrigento. Upon arrival, explore the stunning Valley of the Temples
(UNESCO), one of the world’s most esteemed archeological sites, and get
an up-close view of the temples of Juno, Concordia, and Hercules.
Journey
east to Sicily’s Ionian Coast. En route, discover beautiful Taormina,
home to ancient relics, rocky hills, and charming gardens. With an
expert local guide, you’ll stroll the lively pedestrian only main
street, the Corso Umberto, see the imposing Corvaja Palace, and the
city’s well-preserved Greek theatre. Later this afternoon, continue on
to Giardini Naxos – the “garden of Sicily” – for your 2-night stay.
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Breakfast |
Take
a short ferry ride to Villa San Giovanni, located on Italy’s mainland.
Pass through the unspoiled region of Calabria to the Basilicata region.
Wander through the twisting vines of a local winery before touring the
cellar for a tasting. Linger over regional cuisine at dinner in the
winery’s agriturismo restaurant.
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Breakfast | Dinner |
Day 9 Matera - ALBEROBELLO - MATERA
Explore
the Sassi
di Matera (UNESCO), an ancient settlement of carved cave dwellings. A
local guide shares the history and explains why film producers are
seeking out this unique landscape. Visit a local shop and get a taste
of regional specialties. This afternoon decide how you explore because
it’s your choice! Discover more of Matera with a guided tour of an
underground cistern followed by free time to browse the city’s stores
and cave churches -OR- head to Alberobello (UNESCO) and marvel at the
town’s whimsical trulli homes, known for their distinct, cone-shaped
roofs.
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Breakfast | Dinner |
Day 10 MATERA - Sorrento
After
a stop at a sustainable buffalo farm for a taste of freshly made
mozzarella and a peek into the history of this iconic cheese, arrive in
Sorrento, where you’ll settle in for a 2-night stay. Later this
afternoon, discover this charming seaside town during a walking tour
and learn about the local tradition of wood marquetry.
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Breakfast |
Day 11 Sorrento - POSITANO - SORRENTO
This
morning, take in the sights and colors of the Mediterranean Sea as you
sail** along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast (UNESCO). Gaze out over the
deep blue hues of the sea paired with the bright citrus fruits lining
the hillsides. Pause in Positano with its pastel-colored houses and
pebbly beaches. Spend time in this legendary locale browsing the posh
boutiques or resting along the beach, before returning to Sorrento for
an afternoon at leisure. This evening, celebrate the end of your
journey with a delightful farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
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Breakfast | Dinner |
Day
12
SORRENTO - POMPEII
-ROME
Journey
north to Rome. En route, experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii
(UNESCO). A local guide gives you an in-depth look into this
2,000-year-old Roman town, nestled in the foothills of Mount Vesuvius.
Step into another time as you explore its preserved buildings and
imagine life in the 1st century. Later, check in to your hotel located
close to Fiumicino Airport.
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Breakfast | Dinner |
Day 13 ROME - TOUR ENDS
Today breakfast will be included.
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| Save today on EVERY Collette Vacation! Toll Free Call
1-877-510-4653 USA and Canada |
We
provide an additional "Thank You!" for
all Collette
tour programs. Call or Email us for details about our "Thank You!"
Promotion for all first-time tour
clients. Offer subject
to availability and change without notice.
|
TALK
TO AN EXPERIENCED
Collette Vacation Specialist |
 As a
full-service travel provider we
can
help
you in finding your
perfect tour at the best price available today. We've been
representing COLLETTE
VACATIONS for
over 40 years. We
can take you all the way from your own hometown to
some of the most beautiful touring experiences in Europe and then back
again - all with the expertise of a seasoned COLLETTE professional travel counselor.
When it is important to get it right, you can trust the services of our
own professional COLLETTE Certified travel specialists.
Please
feel free
to call us or email us or we would be happy to provide your information
via email
on the tour form, below.DOWNLOAD
THE FULL BROCHURE! |
We will check your requested tour program and accommodations for the date range that you may specify in the questionnaire above and reply back to you as soon as possible. Of course the more information that you can provide us, the closer we will be in matching your needs and preferences. We will not knowingly sell or pass along your information that you provide to any third party for any reason (see Liabilities and Privacy Policy). And we use SSL Technology to safeguard your information on our tour request forms that we have posted throughout our website.
We are available to answer your inquiries in person Monday - Friday (except holidays) from 8:30am until 5:30pm CST (1-877-510-4653 | 817-788-5210). We are available from time to time on the weekends via email to answer your questions. Our typical response time for your email request ranges from 3 hours to as many as 72 depending upon the availability of onsite resources and those of the tour companies and resorts/lodging establishments, as well as any variations you may request from our listed programs. We will respond to your requests as quickly as possible and as soon as we have all components of your package confirmable. All tour program rates are based upon double occupancy unless otherwise specified.
Thank
you for
your interest in this quality tour by COLLETTE Vacations!
Randy C. Gardner
President
Gardner Travel Service, Inc.
PASSPORT
& VISA INFORMATION
Certain countries require a minimum of 6 months passport validity. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.
IMPORTANT: We recommend that our clients traveling abroad take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.
DESTINATION FACTS & STATS
Time Zone
Italy is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
The currency in Italy is the Euro.
Electricity
Voltage in Italy is 220V. An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage you may still need an adaptor for the plug. When packing your electronic items for travel, please review the converter electric current level to make sure it is the same or greater than the items you are planning on using. If you plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord and adapter plug to ensure proper function.
Elevation
The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 2,400 feet.
Southern
Italy and Sicily
Plan Ahead, Reserve Now!
Add a touch of personalization to your vacation by selecting from our well-researched list of options. While Collette is known for our many inclusions, we also want to be sure you have adequate free time and options to enhance your vacation – your way. And now, you can reserve your options in advance of your tour!
Availability is limited and reservations are on a first come, first serve basis. Payment must be received no later than 15 days prior to departure. Prices are subject to change. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
Visit Cefalu and a Local Farm - $85
City: Palermo
Duration: 6 Hours
Your transportation is included
This afternoon, set off for the stunning seaside town of Cefalù on Sicily’s northern coast. Stroll the charming medieval streets with a local guide and visit the city's magnificent cathedrals that showcase Norman architecture. Next, journey to a family-owned farm picturesquely set in the mountains. Meet the owners and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like during a private tour of the property, where you learn about its traditional products. Later, sit back and relax as a chef prepares local specialties for you featuring the farm’s own products and secret recipes. Then sit down to a hearty dinner – Italian-style, complete with wine of course!
Gratuities are included.
A Walk in Old World Sicily - $45
City: Giardini-Naxos
Duration: 2 Hours
Your transportation is included
The movies come to life before your eyes in charming Savoca, Sicily. This historic hill-top village was one of the filming locations for the classic 1972 movie "The Godfather." It is where Al Pacino’s character Michael Corleone fell in love with a young Sicilian girl. This remarkable village was founded in 1134 and even today, remains untouched. Your tour will take you through its quaint alleyways to the historic Bar Vitelli, where Michael asks for Apollonia’s hand in marriage from her father. You will also see the church built in the 14th century where the wedding of Michael and Apollonia was filmed, the Chiesa di Santa Lucia or Chiesa di San Nicolò. Savoca is considered to be one of the most beautiful “borgos” (small villages) in Italy. This journey through the past is sure to give you the feeling of being in old-world Sicily and should not be missed.
The Flavors of Sicily - $85
City: Giardini-Naxos
Duration: 2.5 Hours
Your transportation is included
Linger over an exquisite four-course meal while traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. Join us on your free evening for an unforgettable dinner at a popular local restaurant. Your evening begins with a typical Italian antipasto and continues with a variety of local specialties and fine Sicilian wines. Delight in the lively music performed by talented local musicians who are sure to have you clapping and singing along. Sit back and savor the flavors of Sicily during a fun-filled evening with true Italian ambiance and local cuisine.
Gratuities are included.
is a global
leader of
world travel and Escorted Tours, offering 150 vacation choices on all
seven continents. We are a family-owned business, now in our third
generation of Sullivan-family ownership.
The
Collette
DifferenceCertain countries require a minimum of 6 months passport validity. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.
IMPORTANT: We recommend that our clients traveling abroad take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.
DESTINATION FACTS & STATS
Time Zone
Italy is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
The currency in Italy is the Euro.
Electricity
Voltage in Italy is 220V. An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage you may still need an adaptor for the plug. When packing your electronic items for travel, please review the converter electric current level to make sure it is the same or greater than the items you are planning on using. If you plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord and adapter plug to ensure proper function.
Elevation
The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 2,400 feet.
| Optional Excursions for |
Plan Ahead, Reserve Now!
Add a touch of personalization to your vacation by selecting from our well-researched list of options. While Collette is known for our many inclusions, we also want to be sure you have adequate free time and options to enhance your vacation – your way. And now, you can reserve your options in advance of your tour!
Availability is limited and reservations are on a first come, first serve basis. Payment must be received no later than 15 days prior to departure. Prices are subject to change. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
Visit Cefalu and a Local Farm - $85
City: Palermo
Duration: 6 Hours
Your transportation is included
This afternoon, set off for the stunning seaside town of Cefalù on Sicily’s northern coast. Stroll the charming medieval streets with a local guide and visit the city's magnificent cathedrals that showcase Norman architecture. Next, journey to a family-owned farm picturesquely set in the mountains. Meet the owners and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like during a private tour of the property, where you learn about its traditional products. Later, sit back and relax as a chef prepares local specialties for you featuring the farm’s own products and secret recipes. Then sit down to a hearty dinner – Italian-style, complete with wine of course!
Gratuities are included.
A Walk in Old World Sicily - $45
City: Giardini-Naxos
Duration: 2 Hours
Your transportation is included
The movies come to life before your eyes in charming Savoca, Sicily. This historic hill-top village was one of the filming locations for the classic 1972 movie "The Godfather." It is where Al Pacino’s character Michael Corleone fell in love with a young Sicilian girl. This remarkable village was founded in 1134 and even today, remains untouched. Your tour will take you through its quaint alleyways to the historic Bar Vitelli, where Michael asks for Apollonia’s hand in marriage from her father. You will also see the church built in the 14th century where the wedding of Michael and Apollonia was filmed, the Chiesa di Santa Lucia or Chiesa di San Nicolò. Savoca is considered to be one of the most beautiful “borgos” (small villages) in Italy. This journey through the past is sure to give you the feeling of being in old-world Sicily and should not be missed.
The Flavors of Sicily - $85
City: Giardini-Naxos
Duration: 2.5 Hours
Your transportation is included
Linger over an exquisite four-course meal while traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. Join us on your free evening for an unforgettable dinner at a popular local restaurant. Your evening begins with a typical Italian antipasto and continues with a variety of local specialties and fine Sicilian wines. Delight in the lively music performed by talented local musicians who are sure to have you clapping and singing along. Sit back and savor the flavors of Sicily during a fun-filled evening with true Italian ambiance and local cuisine.
Gratuities are included.
| Collette Vacations |
| MISSION STATEMENT Our whole purpose at Collette Vacations is to fulfill vacation dreams. Our daily goal is to deliver to our family of travelers the highest quality, best value and exceptional service, every time, everywhere. We strive to create extraordinary vacation experiences on all 7 continents. Our greatest reward is planning our clients’ next trip. |
IT'S IN THE DETAILS
Our NO WORRIES cancellation waver means you can cancel anytime prior to the day of departure and receive a full cash refund.
Add up the cost of hotels, transportation, meals, sightseeing and entertainment and you'll find what an incredible savings a tour offers.
On a tour, you'll find yourself saying, "I never would have thought to try that!" We work everyday to uncover those gems that make your vacation special. Let our experience work for yours.
Don't worry about planning the details, getting directions, picking great hotels, or purchasing sightseeing tickets - we do that!
Our tour managers are with you from start to finish, taking care of every detail - and brightening your vacation with history and anecdotes that bring the destination to life. A Collette Tour means less time planning and more time enjoying.
You pack the bags - we'll lug them around! That's right - when you're on tour with us, we take care of all luggage handling... including the tip!
The Difference Starts at Your Door
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Why Travel on an Escorted Tour?
We take the hassle out of travel, so you have all the fun. Here's how.
Our buying power gets you unbeatable value.
Our tours include your sightseeing, entertainment, admissions to museums and parks, great hotels and many meals, making it a hassle free experience for you from start to finish. Our hotels are centrally located, so you won't waste a second of your free time in buses or cabs. Even your luggage is managed for you.
We planned ahead, so Europe with us is still a bargain.
We can provide a vacation to Europe, for example, at 15% less than you would pay if you planned it on your own. There is no better time than now to buy a packaged vacation.
Imagine seeing Thailand for less than $90 a day, and that includes your hotel.
On our Thailand - Ancient Capitals and Countryside tour, you'll ride an elephant and cruise the Mekong River into Laos, just two unforgettable included experiences among 14 days worth of discoveries You'll also enjoy 26 meals on tour, including a dinner cruise on a rice barge. See the Golden Buddha, the ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, the colorful pageantry of a Hill Tribe cultural show - it's all included!
It's like traveling with a friend who knows the area.
Your tour manager will be with you every step of the way, handling the tedious details of travel, while you relax and enjoy the trip. They are seasoned professionals with in-depth knowledge about your destination and a passion for sharing it.
Our tour developers personally scout out the best for you.
They search for accommodations, restaurants, attractions and entertainment to assemble not only a fantastic trip, but create an entire experience that captures the spirit of your destination. Learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine from a Florentine chef in Italy. Fly a kite in China. Feed a kangaroo in Australia. Our tour developers love creating those unforgettable moments that make your trip uniquely yours.
We've got something for everyone, from Branson to Beijing.
Collette Vacations travels to more than 150 destinations on all seven continents. We also offer Explorations by Collette, small-group tours with a maximum of only 16 - 24 passengers that wander off the beaten path. Explorations tours feature boutique hotels, outdoor activities and interaction with local people.
No Worries Protection Plan
What exactly is your cancellation waiver?
We have the best cancellation waiver in the industry-period. You can cancel your trip up until the day prior to departure for any reason - sickness, change of heart or any reason whatsoever-and you will receive a full refund, minus the small cost of the insurance. That's a cash refund, not a voucher or certificate. There's no risk when you book with Collette.
But isn't it expensive?
Not at all! Let's say you were planning to take our Italian Vistas tour for 13 days. The land-only waiver is just $170 per person. That breaks down to about $13.07 a day-just a little over eight euros! The land and air waiver is only $30 more. That's airplane peanuts compared to the peace of mind you'll enjoy.
Plus, you're covered on tour.
Our cancellation waiver and insurance plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.
Testimonials:
My husband had an accident in New Zealand…He subsequently had to be transferred by ambulance to Invercargill (Southland Hospital) to have surgery on his leg. He spent one week in the hospital. I am so glad we always take out the insurance. This is our third trip with Collette and we always take out the insurance…In spite of the accident, we had a wonderful time in Australia and New Zealand up to Queenstown and we are very glad we took the trip. Genevieve Gallagher, Clifton Park, NY
We had one unfortunate problem; one traveler broke her ankle…Thank goodness I insist that my passengers take the insurance. Virginia Gratton, Greenport, NY
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Check out our SOUTHERN BREEZE GOLF TOURS - golf packages for some fantastic destinations throughout the U.S! Click here to visit our golf site. |
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