July 22 through 28, Travel with a Purpose

Transcription

1 July 22 through 28, 2018 Travel with a Purpose

2 Iceland's FIRE AND ICE Connoisseurs Tours excitedly presents Iceland s Fire and Ice, a seven-day tour exclusively designed for Connoisseurs Travelers. In seven days, we ll explore the drama of this small island, from its bold Viking roots and magical history to its wild landscape shaped by millennia of active volcanoes and tip-toeing glaciers. We ll hike to the top of ancient volcanic craters, feel the mists of booming icy waterfalls, and soak in healing hot springs. Iceland balances untouched nature with uniquely cosmopolitan sophistication: chic cafés sell bread baked by geothermal heat, designer boutiques are filled with Scandinavian prints and natural fabrics. Join us on this exploration into the mythical, rugged beauty of otherworldly Iceland. Tour Details At-A-Glance $4,985 per-person, double occupancy $895 single supplement iconic accomodations The Canopy Hilton Occupying 6 connected buildings, this chic, contemporary hotel overlooking Faxa Bay is a short walk from striking landmarks. Ultramodern rooms immerse you in Icelandic style and offer pleasant surprises at perfect moments - from in-room Nespresso machines, to bike check-outs, and nightly local beer and wine tastings in the bistro. The gourmet breakfast buffet is served in a sophisticated, hip restaurant offering local fare. Hótel Húsafell Combine the comfort of a luxurious hotel with the exploration of the unique wonders of Icelandic nature. Set on the vast grounds of Húsafell, a former farm, this hip hotel surrounded by rolling hills uses energy produced on-site via the lava, glaciers and hot springs. Float in Húsafell geothermal healing water and experience deep nourishing relaxation, or enjoy fine fare from the seasonal menu. Featuring paintings by a local artist, the minimalist rooms all have floor-to-ceiling windows with scenic views.

3 Day 1 - August 12, 2018 Arrive in Reykjavik Today we arrive in colorful Reykjavik to check in and meet at our lovely hotel, the Canopy Hilton. After getting situated, we will visit the Settlement Exhibition, where archaeological digs have uncovered the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavík dating to before 871 AD. which explains the anthropological history of Iceland and includes an exhibit on Egill Skallagrimsson, Iceland s most famous Viking and first poet. We ll then travel to Eiríksstaðir, with a stop at the fabulously preserved volcanic Grábrók Crater. Lunch will be at the country hotel Hraunsnef only a few minutes from Grábrók. In the afternoon, we will step back to the Viking Era with a visit to Erik the Red's farm which is also the birthplace of Leif the Lucky, son of Erik the Red, who is said to have discovered America. Modern day Vikings demonstrate the lifestyle of 1000 years ago, sharing their crafts and knowledge. Finally, we ll make our way to the elegant Húsafell Hotel in Stórarjóður for dinner and relaxation in the hotel s heated outdoor pool. (B,L,D) Day 3 - August 14, 2018 Borgarfjörður From here, we explore the city on foot discovering old style wood-framed houses mixed with a creative collection of postmodern architecture. In the evening, we ll dine together as we enjoy Icelandic cuisine and learn more about the fascinating history of Reykjavik, Iceland s capital and largest city. (D) In the morning, we ll explore the inner-workings of a glacier with a visit to the new, man-made ice cave. The ice tunnel and caves are located high on Iceland's second Day 2 - August 13, 2018 Borgardjodur: Viking Day In the morning, we ll make our way to the iconic and historical Borgarfjörður. We arrive in the town of Borgarnes to visit the local Settlement Center, a museum largest glacier, Langjökull. In the afternoon, we re bound for Snorralaug and Reykholt. Reykholt is the home of Iceland's best-known author, Snorri Sturluson, who lived in the early 1200s. An ancient geothermally-heated pool, Snorralaug, is named after him. We ll also hike to the waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafossar, a collection of countless creeks and cascades small and large expanding 900 metres. Again, we ll dine and overnight at the iconic Húsafell Hotel in Stórarjóður where we can unwind in the geothermally heated outdoor pools. (B,L,D)

4 Day 4 - August 15, 2018 Golden Circle We begin the day with a trip to Þingvellir, a remarkable geological site and one of the most historic sites on the island. The world's oldest democratic parliament Europe. Here you will witness thousands of tons of icy water thunder majestically down into a deep gorge. We end the day with a special stop at the Secret Lagoon of Fludir, the oldest swimming pool in Iceland and also a geothermal natural hot spring with steam rising into the air around it. The warm water holds at Celsius all year. Around the pool are several geothermal spots and a little Geysir which erupts every 5 minutes, showing off for those soaking in the hot spring. Finally, we ll return this evening to the Canopy Hilton Hotel in Reykjavik, where we ll stay for the next two nights. (B,L,D) was founded here in 930. Þingvellir, located by Lake Þingvallavatn, the largest lake on the island, is now a national park and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since The beautiful canyon running through the park is actually the meeting point of two of the earth s tectonic plates. We continue on to discover the famous Great Geysir which has given its name to hot springs all over the world. You will see one of the most active geysers in the area, Day 5 - August 16, 2018 Reykjanes Peninsula Today, we ll explore the Reykjanes Peninsula including volcanic craters, lava fields and geothermal waters. Our first stop is by Lake Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula situated on the fissure zone of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge with depth of 97m. According to legend, the lake is said to be inhabited by a monster. From there, we ll go to Seltún, a geothermal field with solfataras, fumaroles, mud pots and hot springs. You will smell the area long before arrival and once you are there it s like landing on a different planet. The soil there is bright yellow, Strokkur, spouting up to 30 meters in the air, every 5 to 7 minutes! Only a few minutes away is Gullfoss (Golden Waterfall), one of the most impressive waterfalls in

5 Day 6 - August 17, 2018 Reykjavík Today we explore the city of Reykjavík with our guide. We will visit the Culture house, the Saga Museum, the Pearl and the otherworldly Hallgrimskirkja church. The afternoon is free for us to enjoy at leisure. We will also have e the option of joining a whale watching tour from the harbor of Reykjavík. Tonight we ll have one last farewell dinner together at the Food Cellar in the Old town of Reykajvík. (B,L,D) red and green, steamy and burning hot. We ll also visit Eldborg Craters with an optional hike up to Stóra-Eldborg, which by many is considered the most beautiful crater in the Southwest of Iceland. Our lunch stop is the oceanside Hafið Bláa Restaurant. In the afternoon, we visit a Lava Cave and a geothermal power plant. We ll explore the inner workings of a volcanic eruption and be able to walk in the path of lava that flowed during the Leitahraun eruption, which occurred east of the Bláfjöll mountains about 5,200 years ago. We ll also visit Hellisheiði Power Plant s geothermal exhibition to explore the utilization of geothermal energy in Iceland. (B,L,D) Day 7 - August 18, Return Home Today we ll assist with any transfers for travel home.

6 GENERAL INFORMATIOM, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS TOUR COST: $ per person double occupancy. Supplement for single occupancy is $ DEPOSIT: $ per person deposit is required to confirm a reservation on a definite basis. Final payment is due April 22, Deposit and payments can be credit card or check. INCLUSIVE PRICES Tour Prices: Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach transportation, special dinners, sightseeing, admissions, porterage, and the services of the local guides, drivers and the Tour Escort/ Guide are included, as per individual details of the itinerary. Transportation from arrival Airports to the beginning hotel is included in the cost of the tour on most journeys. Please review your specific itinerary for details. Transportation from the last hotel to the departure airport listed in the brochure is also included when you check out of the hotel. Transportation to and from airports and train stations may be shared with other guests. Hotel Accommodations: The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of accommodations may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort. Meals: Included meals are specified in the itinerary. Gratuities: All customary gratuities for hotel, restaurant staff, and local guides are included. NOT INCLUDED Air Transportation: Air transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Gratuities to your Guide/Escort and drivers: Gratuities are not included to your overall guide/escort and coach driver, a recommended gratuity amount will be provided to you in your final tour documents. Connoisseurs Tours wishes to stress that this gratuity is optional and on a voluntary basis. Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as phone calls, use of fitness center, room service, alcoholic and bar beverages, mineral water, soft drinks, laundry, airline service fees, excess luggage fees, and other optional incidental extras are not included in the tour price. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Travel Protection: Connoisseurs Tours offers Cancellation/Delay/Medical Protection. The cost of travel protection is $ per person based on double occupancy. $ per person for single occupancy. Travel protection can be paid with your deposit or at the time of your final payment. Connoisseurs Tours strongly recommends that you purchase Cancellation/Medical Protection. Traveling is a big investment. It pays to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances that can result in trip cancellation and additional expenses such as costs related to medical emergencies. This Travel Insured Protection Plan is specifically designed to provide you with peace of mind knowing you are protected against the financial impact of unexpected events while on your trip. Additional insurance is available to include the cost of your airfare. Please contact Connoisseurs Tours if you would like to insure the cost of your airline tickets after you have purchased your airline tickets. Health and Fitness: Connoisseurs Tours are moderate exertion journeys. Travelers must certify that they are in good health and can walk one to two miles a day. These journeys are not recommended for those who have mobility limitations such as walkers, wheelchairs and scooters. CANCELLATION TERMS AND CONDITIONS: $300 per person from the time of booking to 120 days prior to departure is non-refundable. $750 per person from 119 to 90 days prior to departure is non-refundable. 50% of the tour price from 89 to 60 days prior to departure is non-refundable. 100% of the full program cost from 59 to 0 days prior to departure and during the tour is non-refundable. All cancellations must be in writing Itinerary Change and Flexibility: Connoisseurs Tours pledges to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. Connoisseurs Tours reserves the right to alter or curtail any aspect of the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing,

7 hotels/ and or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any additional expense for these substitutions will be covered by Connoisseurs Tours. Responsibility: Connoisseurs Tours acts only as an agent for the traveler with respect to transportation, accommodations and other services offered on the tour. Connoisseurs Tours and the agents assume no responsibility or liability for any act, error omission, or for any injury, loss, accident or delay or irregularity that may be caused by any defect in any aircraft, ship, train, bus or other carrier or through negligence or default of any subcontractor or other third party. The passage contract in use by the carriers when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the traveler. Connoisseurs Tours and/or their agents will not responsible for loss, injury, damages or expenses to person or property, due to illness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature or other causes in connection with the tour for anything beyond their reasonable control. Connoisseurs Tours is not responsible for transportation or other delays or changes to the tour program beyond their control, nor any additional expenses or loss of time that may be incurred by the traveler. It may be necessary or advisable for the wellbeing of all travelers to alter the itinerary at any time, without notice to the travelers, and such alterations will be made without penalty to Connoisseurs Tours. Connoisseurs Tours reserves the right to decline or not to retain any person as a member of any tour or to change or withdraw a tour as circumstances demand. All rates quoted are based on tariffs in effect at the time the tour was planned and are subject to change in the event of adjustment therein. Baggage is carried at the owner s risk and baggage insurance is recommended. Connoisseurs Tours reserves the right to substitute hotels of equal or superior quality. The proposals of this section are governed by Georgia law, and final payment by the traveler to Connoisseurs Tours shall be deemed to be consent to the above provisions. Any payment made towards a tour booking shall constitute a confirmation by the Guest on behalf of themselves and all other persons named on their booking that he or she has read, understood, accepted and agreed to the Terms & Conditions of this tour, the terms of which will apply to the Guest and all other persons named on their booking. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Call or Connoisseurs Tours for more information: info@connoisseurstours.com