Jewels of the Lower Mississippi New Orleans to Memphis on board the American Duchess March 23 April 2, 2019

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1 New Orleans to Memphis on board the American Duchess March 23 April 2, 2019 Jewels of the Lower Mississippi Explore the land of bawdy blues and Southern belles. This journey showcases the diversity and drama of the Lower Mississippi River. From Memphis to New Orleans, the river rolls slowly and expansively, smooth as a southern drawl. The bayous and woodlands along the shore create dramatic landscapes that are virtually unchanged since the days of the French fur traders. Gracious towns with palatial mansions and tree-lined streets abound. History is everywhere in silent Civil War cemeteries, in the soulful gospel blues of Helena and virtually everywhere you turn in Memphis, best known for jazz, barbecue, and of course, The King of Rock n Roll and his home at Graceland. The American Duchess The American Duchess is the first all-suite Paddlewheeler on U.S. rivers. She caters to only 166 guests and is a floating, intimate masterpiece cruising through America's heartland. She is quite simply the most luxurious river cruising vessel in the country, featuring single-seating main dining and entertainment venues, soaring ceilings, and all the famous features guests enjoy on the other American Queen Steamboat vessels. Be the first to know! Join our private newsletter today! Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 1 of 12

2 Your 11-Day Journey Day 1 Depart for New Orleans, Louisiana Enjoy your private car home pick up service. Guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their check-in. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board your flight to New Orleans. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details throughout the journey, enabling you to concentrate on your experience. On arrival to New Orleans, we make our way to our hotel. Join us in the evening for a casual welcome dinner. (D) Overnight New Orleans, InterContinental New Orleans, 2 nights Day 2 New Orleans, The Big Easy In New Orleans, you'll find the roots of jazz and a blossoming culture that has been long described as being unlike anything else in the United States. Founded in 1718, it is one the nation's oldest cities and has an atmosphere rich with a mix of French, Creole, Caribbean, Irish, and African-American, all creating an energy that can be described as something greater than the sum of its parts. This morning, enjoy a city tour that showcases the highlights of the Big Easy, including the French Quarter, Jackson Square, the Garden District, and St. Charles Avenue. Relax with a beignet at Café du Monde, and amble through the City of the Dead. After a tasty local lunch, the afternoon is free for you to explore and soak up the unique atmosphere of this vibrant but laid-back city! Day 3 Louisiana Swamp Tour Experience a morning out on the bayou during a classic Louisiana Swamp Tour. Journey through the heart of Southern Louisiana s swamplands in the protected Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve s Barataia Preserve on this exciting boat tour. Experience real-life adventure as our Cajun guide shares the legends and lore of Louisiana s still untamed wilderness, and watch for the native creatures that call this place home alligators, turtles, egrets, and otters. Tour through the meandering bayous filled with moss-draped cypress trees and fascinating, other-worldly plant life before enjoying the rich Cajun flavours of lunch at a local restaurant. Then, board the elegant American Duchess, your home for the next seven days. All meals will be served on board unless otherwise indicated. Overnight American Duchess, 7 nights American Duchess Hop-On Hop-Off River Coaches Included on all American Queen Steamboat Company voyages, these signature shore excursions are your ticket to experience great river cities with selected admissions, narrated tours, and a dedicated fleet of Hop-On Hop-Off River Coaches. These Hop-On Hop-Off tours are the best way to experience the freedom of choosing your own path in these great cities; you may visit each attraction on the map with a red star, show your boat ID, and your admission is covered. For those attractions not included, you will find discount and reduced admission coupons on your city map. River coaches typically stop every 15 to 20 minutes. Jerry Van Dyke Difference Premium Shore Excursions In addition to the Hop-On Hop-Off River Coaches, we have included Premium Shore Excursions in some ports of call exclusive to our guests. This allows for a fully immersive, worry-free day, experiencing the best that each port has to offer. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 2 of 12

3 Day 4 Nottoway Plantation Nottoway is the South s largest, most glorious remaining antebellum mansion with a rich history dating back to In a fabulous location along the great River Road overlooking the grand Mississippi River, this White Castle of the South transports visitors back to an era of glory and grandeur. Set amongst a natural backdrop of vibrant gardens and 200-year-old oak trees, Nottoway Plantation captivates all with a brilliant blend of true Southern hospitality, history and mystery. This morning, admire the stunning scenery as we cruise along the Mississippi River, headed for this historic landmark. Enjoy lunch on board before we discover the wonders and charm of Louisiana s White Castle on this afternoon s Included Premium Shore Excursion. Dinner will be served back on board the American Duchess. Included Premium Shore Excursion The White Castle of Louisiana Step back in time to pre-civil War America on a guided tour of Nottoway Plantation which lies between Baton Rouge and New Orleans and offers a view of a truly grand plantation. The mansion flaunts 64 bedrooms across three floors and displays 22 white square columns which contribute to its nickname The White Castle. The most popular room among guests is the White Ballroom, which is painted entirely in white and displays elaborate gold décor throughout. Rooms are trimmed in custom plaster frieze made from Spanish moss, clay, plaster, and mud and are all original to the house. As if that weren t enough, this immaculate mansion was built with 365 openings one for each day of the year. Enjoy a guided walking tour of an American Castle as we explore within the pristine walls of Nottoway followed by a stroll through the lush grounds and gardens. Day 5 St. Francisville Established in 1809, St. Francisville is the oldest town in the Florida Parishes. Below where St. Francisville is located currently, was a settlement called Bayou Sara in the 1790s. When this settlement was destroyed by flooding and fires, many of the structures and artifacts were hauled up the bluff into St. Francisville, where they are still standing. The town is referred to as two miles long and two yards wide, but that definitely doesn t mean they have nothing to offer. Stop in at one of the unique shops, historical homes, beautiful churches, or breathtaking parks, and you will agree with that! Spanish moss trees grow throughout the town, which creates a beautiful southern comfort to the atmosphere. Arriving shortly after breakfast, we embark on a morning excursion and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the antebellum South s wealthiest planters. Enjoy lunch on board before setting sail for a relaxing afternoon and evening of river cruising. Included Premium Shore Excursion Plantations of the Back Roads Experience two southern plantations that have deep ancestral ties. We begin at Rosedown Plantation, one of the most intact documented examples of a domestic plantation complex in the South. Established in the 1830s by Daniel and Martha Barrow Turnbull, Rosedown remained in the hands of their descendants until the 1950s. Explore the elaborate home and sprawling gardens before continuing on to nearby Catalpa, a charming private home that has remained in the same family since the early 1800s. Owner Mary Thompson, a descendant of the estate s original family, is a gracious hostess who delights in sharing her grand home, its history and its connection with Rosedown Plantation. In every room of Catalpa, evidence of the family s rich history lives on. At the conclusion of your visit, enjoy a complimentary glass of Sherry as Mary invites all of her guests for a traditional southern farewell on the front porch. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 3 of 12

4 Day 6 Natchez, Mississippi This charming river town was first inhabited by Natchez Indians and French explorers who shared the land. It was founded in 1716, making it the oldest town on the Mississippi. Natchez is known for its elegance, hospitality, and impressive preservation of history found on every street corner throughout the town. Guests enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums, and historic homes located in Natchez, all of which contribute to Hugh Bayless book, The 100 Best Towns in America. Step back in time this morning on another Included Premium Shore Excursion that visits a cotton plantation still in operation today. Lunch and dinner will both be provided back on the American Duchess, and the afternoon is free for you to explore this quaint town at your leisure. Included Premium Shore Excursion The Story of Cotton in the Antebellum South Cross the river to Louisiana and visit historic Frogmore Plantation, designated a Must-See Site by Rand McNally. Frogmore is the only historic and modern, 1800-acre working cotton plantation in the South. Take a seat on an original pew in an 1800s African-American plantation church, and enjoy the gospel songs and hear the narrations about life on a cotton plantation. Take a walk up to the fields, and feel free to pick some cotton for a glimpse of the essence of life on a plantation. On your return to Natchez, your guide will share unusual cotton trivia and answer questions. Finally, a visit to Longwood will complete the Story of Cotton, with a glimpse into the devastation caused by war and a changing America. This historic antebellum octagonal mansion is the largest of its shape in America. Also known as Nutt s Folly, this unique mansion remains beautifully unfinished and stands symbolically in representation of the last burst of Southern opulence. After surviving decades of neglect and abandonment, Longwood stands strong today and is a can t-miss stop when visiting Natchez. Day 7 Vicksburg Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern-day attractions. Described as the Key to the South by Abraham Lincoln, this southern town carries a history unlike any other Civil War city. Vicksburg was founded in 1811 and grew as a vital river port city. It was a major component to the Civil War and carries much of the history within the town. Today, Vicksburg is a popular spot for tourists to learn about the battles of the city, taste the cuisine, visit the many museums, and pick out the perfect souvenir. This morning, we focus on the history of the Civil War, as we explore important landmarks from this significant era. Savour a delicious lunch on the American Duchess as she sets sail for a gentle cruise up the Mississippi. Dinner will also be served on board. Included Premium Shore Excursion On the Front Lines of the Civil War Travel the front lines of one the most important battlefields in the country cross into enemy territory, hear the stories and hardships suffered by soldiers, and discover what makes Vicksburg such an important city in American history. The Siege and Battle at Vicksburg is a landmark in time that shaped the country and how wars would forever be fought. At the historic Vicksburg National Military Park, we will travel the 16-mile road that weaves through the 1,300 monuments and markers. As our luxury motor coach navigates the bluffs and fields that once served as crucial battlegrounds, we ll cross both Union and Confederate lines and make a few stops to allow for a close-up experience at some of the key points of interest along the way. Tour the USS Cairo and Museum, an Iron Clad River Boat that was raised from the depths of the Mississippi River, and climb the steps at the Illinois State Monument, the largest of the 27 state monuments. Walk the National Cemetery, a peaceful location holding the largest amount of Civil War burials in the country, and visit the Vicksburg Battlefield Visitor s Centre where an informative fiber-optic display depicts the progression of the siege. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 4 of 12

5 Day 8 Cruising the Mississippi River There is always plenty to do between dawn and dusk on the river, and today is the perfect day to enjoy the many public spaces and activities that are available to you on board. Gaze at the beautiful landscapes and small river towns as you mingle with fellow guests and discuss the unique aspects of river life. Retreat to the Lincoln Library, exercise in the fitness facility, enjoy a movie in the theatre, or relax in the grand lobby. However you wish to spend the day, make it your own and revel in every moment. Day 9 Tunica At the northern reaches of the Mississippi, Tunica is one of the South's leading entertainment destinations. It is home to nine casino resorts and three championship-level golf courses. Tunica boasts more than just entertainment though, as it is a popular starting point for the Mississippi Blues Trail, a scenic highway that winds through Mississippi and takes you to historic blues markers and landmarks. Take your time with breakfast today and enjoy a leisurely morning of river cruising. After lunch, we arrive in Tunica where you can take full advantage of the Hop-On Hop-Off River Coaches as you explore this charming town filled with casinos, history, great food and fun! Day 10 Memphis, Tennessee A legendary city, overflowing with blues, soul, and Rock n Roll, Memphis is a destination for the senses. From the rich sounds of soulful blues played by performers on street corners to the sweet smells of smoky barbeque drifting through alleyways to the cultural and musical history woven into the city s core, this renowned city sitting on the banks of the Mississippi River has plenty to offer. In the morning, we bid farewell to the American Duchess and embark on a complete tour of the city s most famed landmark Graceland. Visit the former home of The King himself, Elvis Presley, and get a glimpse into the life of the rich and famous. Savour an authentic Memphis BBQ lunch at Vernon s Steakhouse before transferring to the hotel. The rest of the day is then free for you to explore this iconic city. Dinner will be served at the hotel. Overnight Memphis, The Peabody Hotel, 1 night Day 11 Home Begin the day with a tour of Memphis, Tennessee, including a stop at Sun Studio the birthplace of Rock n Roll and the legendary recording studio where Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, and many others launched their careers. Marvel at the museum s hundreds of rare recordings, memorabilia, photographs, and vintage recording equipment, and conclude with a stop at the original recording studio the same spot where Elvis recorded the first Rock n Roll song! After gathering for a farewell lunch, we bid goodbye to our new friends and make our way to the airport for our flight home. Guests arriving at the Toronto airport are greeted and assisted to their private car home. (B,L) All information contained in this itinerary is correct at time of printing and is subject to the terms and conditions as listed on our web site at or available from our office on request. We must reserve the ability to make improvements. Ports of call and shore excursions are subject to change at the discretion of the shipping operator, ground operators or Jerry Van Dyke Travel. While we endeavour not to make changes, when we have to, changes are always intended to improve the journey experience. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 5 of 12

6 Enjoy $200 OFF your journey fare Pay by cheque or electronic bank transfer at time of final payment, we will deduct $200 off your journey s fare. Please note: A deposit cheque and a post-dated final payment cheque are not considered payment in full. Final payment date is 120 days (or more, depending on the journey) prior to departure. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer, unless noted otherwise. All fares are for departure from Toronto. Other air gateways available.these journey fares include the current known fuel surcharges. Additional charges may apply at final payment date. *All journeys are subject to supplier fuel surcharges and new/increased government fess/taxes, should they arise. Please note: A deposit cheque and a post-dated final payment cheque are not considered payment in full. Final payment date is 120 days (or more, depending on journey) prior to departure. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer, unless noted otherwise. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 6 of 12

7 Your Journey Includes Jewels of the Lower Mississippi Outstanding Accommodation InterContinental, New Orleans, 2 nights American Duchess, 7 nights The Peabody Hotel, Memphis, 1 night Air Travel International flights in economy with Air Canada Toronto to New Orleans Memphis to Toronto Guests join us from across Canada. Contact our office for additional air gateways. Discover, Learn, Experience on included excursions The White Castle of Louisiana The Story of Cotton in the Antebellum Plantations of the Back Roads South On the Front Lines of the Civil War Necessities Know your total journey cost before you leave home! All taxes incl. HST, GST, State city taxes Services of a professional Journey Private car home pick up & return service Manager throughout the journey (where available), or a credit or hotel overnight Services of local guides & coach drivers, All fees, port & service charges for the local perspective Gratuities on all included items: all ship staff, Complete pre-trip information & Journey Managers, local sightseeing guides, assistance coach drivers, porters, etc. All meals included: Branded overnight carry-on bag or backpack 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners Porterage for one piece of baggage All sightseeing & entrance fees as listed Journey Fares from Toronto Canadian dollars per guest Double/Twin Single Interior Suite $8,410 $12,190 Veranda Suite $11,110 $18,810 Other Categories On Request Fuel Surcharges These journey fares include the current known fuel surcharges. Additional supplier fuel surcharges may apply at final payment date. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 7 of 12

8 Outstanding Accommodation Jewels of the Lower Mississippi InterContinental, New Orleans The InterContinental New Orleans is an elegant hotel located in the heart of the Big Easy, just steps from the French Quarter and the riverfront. With a unique blend of classic and contemporary New Orleans décor, complete with rich wood furnishings, soft and inviting beds with luxurious bedding, and tasteful artistic accents, each guestroom makes an uplifting first impression and comfortable stay. Taste the city s rich flavours at the two on-site dining venues Trenasse, a sophisticated restaurant, and Pete s, a relaxed pub. This newly-renovated hotel also features a rooftop pool, and a fitness centre. The Peabody Hotel, Memphis With a style and tradition befitting one of Memphis' grandest, most legendary hotels, The Peabody Memphis offers a magnificent bridge between the "Blues City's" celebrated past and cosmopolitan present. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this historic luxury hotel offers a oneof-a-kind experience just blocks from the city s most popular attractions. This stunning hotel has two restaurants, two bars, and a café complete with sandwiches and desserts. Perhaps its most renowned attraction, though, is the Peabody Duck March a parade of five mallards that march the Grand Lobby to the main fountain, twice daily. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 8 of 12

9 American Duchess The Grand Lobby Elegant Dining Room Spacious luxury awaits aboard the floating masterpiece, the American Duchess. As the first allsuite paddlewheeler in the US, the riverboat offers guests large accommodations, vaulted ceilings, fine dining options, beautiful decks for strolling, and luxury amenities. Embark in one of the river cruise ship s airy suites, including the Loft Suites that feature two stories of pure luxury: a full bathroom, small dining area, beautiful lounge with a queen sofa-bed and desk area, a private balcony and an upstairs loft area. Stop by the Grand Dining Room or The River Club & Terrace for delicious and fresh fine dining options, and enjoy Broadway caliber entertainment. Let her courteous staff and luxury furnishings welcome you aboard the American Duchess. Featuring a single-seating schedule in the beautiful Grand Dining Room, dining on board is an experience. Enjoy 5-star cuisine that blends local flavors and fine culinary traditions. A more casual atmosphere is offered at The River Club & Terrace, which can host over 80 guests who wish to dine at their own pace. Night after magical night, top entertainers bring down the house in the American Duchess's majestic Show Lounge. Each evening the lights dim, the curtains rise and the talented performers offer you entertainment worthy of Broadway. Combining the best of the old and the new, this beautiful lady of the river epitomizes the grace and grandeur that has made River Cruising a cherished American tradition for more than two centuries. One voyage and you ll see why. First all-suite U.S. Paddlewheeler Private Veranda Suites to Loft and Owner's Suites range from 240 to 550 sq. ft. Single-seating dining & show venues Regionally inspired, epicurean cuisine tailored from the finest, local ingredients Complimentary wine & beer with dinner Complimentary cappuccino, espresso, bottled water & soda throughout voyage Distinctions Included shore excursions in every port A dedicated fleet of deluxe river coaches Broadway-caliber entertainment each evening & spotlight guest performances Daily lectures by the Riverlorian, the resident history & culture expert Gracious service from a friendly, all-american staff The Passenger Vessel Association recognizes American Queen Steamboat Company as a member of its Green WATERS Program for the vessel's dedication and commitment to a cleaner, greener marine environment. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 9 of 12

10 Veranda Suite with Private Balcony Jewels of the Lower Mississippi Our Veranda Suites offer the perfect respite from a busy day on the river. Settle in at your desk or relax on the couch, slide open the doors to your private balcony and peacefully watch the river banks of America's heartland drift by. Enjoy the finest amenities in these luxurious accommodations featuring generous closet space and a full bathroom. Note: Stateroom information provided here is a general representation of the stateroom category. Actual room features and amenities may vary sq. ft. with Private Balcony Queen Bed or Two Twin Beds Full Bathroom with Shower Furnished Lounge Area with Sofa & Desk Keurig Coffee Maker & Mini Refrigerator Flat-screen TV Sliding Glass Doors to Balcony Cabin & Observation Decks Interior Suite Surrounded by every modern convenience, you will find your cares disappear within moments upon entry to our welcoming Interior Suites. The airy, open floor plan of these tranquil retreats provides plenty of personal space for you to comfortably move about and feel right at home on the river. Enjoy fine amenities such as ample closet space, a full bathroom and a quaint seating area featuring a desk and side chair. Note: Stateroom information provided here is a general representation of the stateroom category. Actual room features and amenities may vary sq. ft. Queen Bed or Two Twin Beds Full Bathroom with Shower Furnished Seating Area with Desk Keurig Coffee Maker & Mini Refrigerator Flat-screen TV Cabin & Observation Decks Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 10 of 12

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12 Personal Notes & Questions Jewels of the Lower Mississippi Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 12 of 12