Eight Things We Love About New Orleans - One of America's Most European Cities

New Orleans is a town whose very name evokes the lavish parades of Mardi Gras, red-hot jazz and earthy blues, Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, and the world of cajun cuisine from jambalaya and gumbo to po'boys and etouffee. There are so many things to do and see when visiting New Orleans. Its eclectic assortment of attractions adds to its unique charm.  Every year millions of tourists visit New Orleans to soak in the culture of one of America's most European cities. To find out some of the best things to do when visiting the city, we asked our tour directors to tell us about some of their favorite haunts!

European Vibe

Originally settled by the French in the 1660s the city has retained its old-fashioned European vibe. The founder, Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, dubbed the city La Mouvelle-Orleans, in honor of the Duke of Orleans, and many of the streets are named after French Royalty and Catholic Saints. In the 1760s New Orleans was taken over by the Spanish Empire which began to influence its cuisine and architecture. After 40 years, New Orleans reverted back to the French who sold it to President Jefferson for $15 million in 1803. 

Our tour directors love to take in the European vibe of New Orleans whether they are strolling down Royal Street, having a po'boy in a sidewalk cafe, or dancing to Dixieland like nobody's business!! Today many of the events, food, music, and festivities like Mardi Gras and Bastille Day have their roots in French culture. New Orleans is home to French and Spanish-influenced architecture, a historic French Market, the oldest Catholic Cathedral in the U.S., and everyone's favorite French-inspired beignets.

Colorful balcony gardens line the streets in the French Quarter

Wandering in the French Quater

Wandering the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the oldest historic neighborhood of the city is a must according to all our tour directors. Its colorful blend of  Spanish and French-influenced buildings with cast iron balconies, open courtyards, and ornate parapets are uniquely European. Balcony gardens, black iron galleries, ceramic tile street signs, music that floats on the breeze, and the smell of delicious food are all part of the experience. 

There are 78 square blocks to explore on foot. Along the way, our tour directors suggest the following stops: Tennessee Williams's House and the Voodoo Museum on Dumaine Street,  Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, one of the oldest bars in the city, on Bourbon Street, antique shops and art galleries on Royal Street, and a beignet and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde by the river. Don't miss Jackson Square, the Saint Louis Cathedral, and the French Market which offers an excellent selection of local crafts, a flea market, and food stalls. 

Beignet and cafe au lait are a treat any time of day

The Food

New Orleans is a foodie's paradise. The cuisine of New Orleans is heavily influenced by Creole, French, Spanish, and Cajun, cuisine. Our tour directors all have their favorite New Orleans guilty pleasures. Po'Boys tops the list. It is the New Orleans version of a sub where a French baguette is loaded with fried shrimp, oysters, and hot sausage. Another all-time favorite is crawfish etouffee, which is a very thick stew seasoned to perfection and chock full of crawfish or shrimp and served over rice. Jambalaya has been part of the culinary scene since the Colonial Spanish arrived and made this version of paella from locally sourced ingredients. And, then there is gumbo, in a class of its own with a heritage claiming both French and West African roots. This thick stew is made with a wide variety of ingredients from okra and peppers to sausage, seafood, and chicken.

A favorite dining spot of one of our tour directors is the Court of Two Sisters on Royal Street for authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine. The "charm gates" that you go through to get to the courtyard were wrought in Spain for this restaurant. Legend has it that Queen Isabella of Spain had them blessed so that their "charm" would pass on to anyone who touched the gates. 

The Bars 

New Orleans is known locally as the birthplace of the cocktail, so as you can imagine, there is no shortage of bars here!  Historic bars include Arnaud's French 75 Bar, Old Absinthe House, and the Napolean. The Carousel Bar which actually rotates (slowly) located inside the historic Monteleone Hotel on Royal Street is one of our tour director's favorites for a cocktail. 

New Orleans Music 

And, then there is the music, which is the lifeblood of the French Quarter - it is everywhere! Looking for Dixieland jazz or Mississippi blues? Got it! How about Cajun and Zydeco music that comes directly from the bayous? No problem. A tour director's tip is not to choose the music but just enjoy the different genres as you walk from venue to venue. Take a walk down Frenchmen Street, the main thoroughfare of the Marigny neighborhood, adjacent to the French Quarter, which has several blocks of cafes, music clubs, and restaurants. Our tour directors like Snug Harbor on Frenchmen Street for its live jazz music and upscale Creole cuisine. Another favorite is Preservation Hall on Bourbon Street which has offered traditional New Orleans Jazz since 1961.

New Orleans is beautiful from the water!

Cruising On the Ole Miss

To just unwind and take in the beauty of the Crescent City, one of our tour directors suggests that you take a paddleboat cruise on the Mississippi River to enjoy unparalleled views. On the historic tour, you will take a journey through 300 years of New Orleans history that includes a shore excursion to the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and the historic Chalmette Battlefield.

Amazing History in the Cities of the Dead

Cities of the Dead

New Orleans is surrounded by water and built below sea level which is why the departed are entombed above ground. Not as creepy as it sounds, one of our tour directors suggests taking a cemetery tour because it is an interesting way to learn about the city's storied past. The ornate marble burial vaults are home to everyone from rock stars, writers, and politicians to voodoo queens. Writer Anne Rice,  chess player Paul Morphy,  Voodoo practitioner Marie Laveau, musicians Fats Dimino, and Al Hirt, and many more interesting characters are all resting permanently in New Orleans. The most famous cemetery is St. Louis No. 1 where Nicholas Cage has built a white pyramid that is waiting for him to take up residence.

Tour the Garden District

To get away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, our tour directors enjoy strolling the Garden District. Magnolia and live oaks tower over the shaded streets, the smell of jasmine scents the air, and magnificent mansions, gourmet eateries, and interesting shops line the streets. Our tour director's tips are to visit the gothic splendor of the Lafayette Cemetery where Anne Rice used to entertain fans, walk along St. Charles Ave. to admire grand historic homes, and go shopping on Magazine Street. If you have worked up an appetite you might want to try a po'boy from Stein's Deli or indulge in Creole Cusine at the historic Commander's Palace.

These are just some of our favorite things to do in New Orleans. We hope that they become your favorites as well. 

Mexico's Wings of Wonder & Pyramids

Notes: Hiking on uneven dirt trails is required to visit the butterfly sanctuary. Horseback riding where the guide walks the horse you are riding is also an option you may do on your own. To fully enjoy this experience make sure that you are in good physical health as walking at 10,500 ft. in elevation is required.

Journey into the heart of an emerald forest to see the swirling kaleidoscope of thousands and thousands of colorful Monarch Butterflies that make Mexico their winter home. See magnificent palaces, time mellowed Spanish colonial architecture, float along a canal of flowers, and climb to the top of the famous pyramids of Teotihuacan. The wonders of Mexico are calling.

Day 1 - Welcome to Mexico - Mexico City

Our destination is Mexico City founded in 1325 as Tenochtitlan before it was colonized by the Spanish in 1521. Today Mexico City is a vibrant city known for its excellent cuisine, colorful markets, historic architecture, and culture scene. We arrive in Mexico City and transfer to our hotel where we will have time to freshen up and meet other travelers and our tour director at the welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2 - Xochimico/Frida Kahlo Museum

After breakfast, we head to Xochimico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a boat ride through an extensive lake and canal system that is an area of Mexico's pre-Hispanic past. Along the way, we will float on gondalesque boats called trajineras past artificial islands called chinampas with their beautiful gardens. The chinampas were constructed by the Aztecs from juniper branches to allow them to cultivate gardens. There will be plenty of time to shop in the market and have lunch. Located in the picturesque Coyoacan neighborhood that will transport you back to the colonial era we will visit the Frida Kahlo Museum. Tour the historic home of one of Mexico's most renowned painters best known for her brilliantly colored self-portraits that deal with a variety of subjects. We will return to our hotel where you will have the rest of the evening and dinner on your own. (B) (L)

Day 3 -Valle De Bravo/Botanical Museum

After breakfast, we will depart for the colonial-era village of Valle de Bravo, which is considered one of Mexico's pueblo magicos (magic towns). Along the way, we will stop in the city of Toluca to visit the Cosmovitral Botanical Garden. This garden is surrounded by stunning stained glass windows that bathe the garden in colored light.  Continuing on we will have time to have lunch and explore the idyllic village of Valle De Bravo. Go shopping in the town center consisting of winding cobblestone streets and historic white stucco buildings with red-tiled roofs. At the arts and crafts market look for artisan pottery, Mazahua handicrafts, and baskets made from woven pine needles. Tonight we settle in our hotel and have dinner together to talk about our adventures of the day.  (B) (D)

Day 4 - Monarch Santuary

Today's highlight is to be immersed in the enchanting world of monarch butterflies at the Sierra Chincua Sanctuary. Mexico's forests provide an important refuge for these beautiful creatures.  Every year more than one billion monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico to live amid the fir and pine forests here. Arriving at the Visitor Center, we will meet our local guide at this UNESCO Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve for a leisurely 40-minute hike. Clusters of butterflies greet us in this forest refuge, sometimes the butterflies are so thick on a branch that it actually breaks!  Once we reach the sanctuary we have the option of taking a short trail through the sanctuary for better views of the butterflies. (B) (L) (D)

Day 5 - El Rosario Sanctuary

After breakfast, we depart for El Rosario Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. This is the most accessible of Mexico's five protected sanctuaries of wintering Monarchs. Today's hike with our local guide is on a well-maintained but steep trail that takes about 40 minutes to traverse each way. You may opt for a horseback ride (on your own) where the guide leads your horse along the trail for 20 minutes. The hike (or horseback ride) is well worth it because you will be rewarded with seeing thousands and thousands of butterflies dancing amid the forest. At least 40% of all Monarch butterflies winter here making this one of the best places to see them in Mexico. (B) (L) (D)

Day 6 - Semillas De Esperanza/La Marquesa

After breakfast, we head to Semillas De Esperanza, for a tour of this amazing organic botanical garden. Tyler  really couldn't find anything on this garden - depending on where we are let's visit something else.

NEW COPY AND TRIP

Day 6 - Chapultepec Park & Mexico City

After breakfast, we head back to Mexico City. Today we will meet our local guide and explore Chapultepec Park, the oldest and largest public park in Latin America. Strolling through the park, we will pass the Monument to the Ninos Heros commemorating the Mexican-American battle of 1847, and the petroglyphs of Moctezuma II. Not to be missed is a tour of Museo del Caracol and Chapultepec Castle. Inside the Castle, we will tour the National Museum of Anthropology, home to the world's largest collection of ancient Mexican artifacts, and the Palace with various rooms decorated as they had been in the 19th century when Emperor Maximillian and Carlotta lived here. Look for lunch amid the vendors and restaurants along the road.  This afternoon we check into our hotel and and have the rest of the evening and dinner on our own. (B) 

Day 7 - Teotihuacan (NEW only one hour from Mexico City) NEW COPY

After breakfast, we leave for Teotihuacan, a World UNESCO site and one of the most famous ruins in Mexico. This ruin is shrouded in mystery as archeologists are still not sure who founded the city and lived here between 300 and 800 BC. Two of the most notable structures are the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon which we will see when strolling along the Avenue of the Dead. Other notable structures include the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, the Jaguar Palace with its red-painted murals, and the Archaeological Museum. After lunch, we will head back to Mexico City where the rest of the day is at your leisure. Tonight we have a folkloric cultural show along with our farewell dinner. (B) (L) (D)

Day 8 - Homeward Bound 

Adios Mexico! We leave for our return flights home after breakfast. (B) 

Amazing Thailand

Known as "the land of smiles," taking a trip to Thailand is magical. Temples glisten with gold and colorful porcelain in the sunlight, and boats ply the mighty rivers that flow through this country, the fragrant jasmine scents the air and everywhere you look people smile. On this tour to Amazing Thailand, you will discover bustling Bangkok,  explore magnificent temples, go on an elephant safari, and relax on golden sand beaches.

Day One - In Transit

Overnight flight to Bangkok, the glittering capital city of Thailand.

Day Two - Bangkok- Welcome to Bangkok

Check into our hotel and take time to freshen up before meeting for our welcome dinner. Bangkok's rich cultural heritage, awe-inspiring temples, waterways and canals, bustling street markets, jungles, and golden sand beaches make Thailand simply amazing.

Welcome  Dinner

Day Three -  Bangkok - Canals and Temples

In days gone by, people referred to Bangkok as the Venice of the east, and today after breakfast we will begin our day with a boat cruise on the mighty Chao Phraya River. Visitors will see hidden attractions that dot the canals or khlongs including temples, small neighborhoods, colorful homes, and orchid farms. We may even visit one of Bangkok's floating markets. After lunch, we will take a city tour with visits to Bangkok's Grand Palace, the official residence of the King since 1782 where we will visit Wat Phra Kae to see the Emerald Buddha. Our final stop of the day is the temple of Wat Po, where we will see one of the largest reclining Buddhas in the world completely covered in gold leaf.  Returning to our hotel by boat, we will pass Wat Arun, made of thousands of broken pieces of porcelain. After we freshen up we will meet for dinner.

Day Four - Bangkok - https://www.houseoftastecooking.com/

One of the best ways of understanding this unique culture is to take a cooking class. After breakfast, we will participate in a hands-on Thai cooking class. This class includes a tour of a local market where we will learn about spices and vegetables used in Thai cuisine and a hands-on class where we will make four Thai dishes that we will eat for lunch. This afternoon we will visit the Jim Thompson House, a complex of six traditional Thai-styled houses that were collected from all over Thailand in the 1950s. The house, once owned by Jim Thompson, who made a fortune in silk in the mid-20th century is filled with a beautifully curated collection of objects de art and antiques. The most interesting part of our tour is the discussion on Jim Thompson's mysterious disappearance in 1967 at the height of his career. He went for a walk in the jungle of Malaysia and was never seen again. After dinner tonight, we will take a guided tour of the night markets of Bangkok.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day Five - Bangkok - Phuket Island

After breakfast, we fly to Phuket. Upon arrival, we will take a city tour of Phuket that includes View Point, Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Old Town. Afterward, we will check into our hotel, with the rest of the day, plus lunch and dinner on your own. 

Day Six - Phuket Island

Today is a free day to enjoy on the beach soaking up the Thai sunshine. You may also want to book a private boat tour of the Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island. Lunch and Dinner on your own.

Day Seven - Phuket Island - Chiang Mai

This morning we say goodbye to the tropical paradise of Phuket and fly to Thailand's second-largest city, Chaing Mai nestled in the country's hills. Upon arrival, we will have a city tour including markets, Chaing Mai's Wat Chedi Luang known for having the largest wat in Chaing Mai, Wat Phan Tao known for its intricate wood-carved designs, and Wat Phra Singh with its mosaic-decorated sanctuary on a short walking tour. After checking into our hotel, we will have the rest of the afternoon to explore this ancient city. After dinner tonight, we will have the option to be dropped off at (unless the hotel is within walking distance) Chaing Mai's famous traditional night market.

Breakfast, Dinner

Lunch on own

Day Eight - Chaing Mai -  Elephant Camp & Rafting

After breakfast, we will embark on a one-of-a-kind experience. We will take a scenic drive past local farms and hill tribe villages to the Mae Wang Waterfalls. After cooling off at the falls, we will continue on to an elephant camp located deep in the Thai jungle. We will learn about the care of elephants and the history of the sanctuary. A highlight is to feed elephants bananas and to bathe with them. After lunch, we will take a scenic bamboo rafting trip along the Mae Wang River. Returning to our hotel, dinner is on your own.

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 - Hmong Hill Tribe Village

After breakfast, we take a scenic drive into the jungle to visit a Hmong Hill Tribe Village. Along the way, we will stop at a coffee research station to see how they process coffee. Our next stop will be at the Royal Winter Residence which has a beautiful orchid and rose garden. Additional stops will be made at Wat Prathat Doi Suthep and Doi Suthep, two of the most important Lanna temples. Next, we will visit a Hmong Village.  A small museum offers a glimpse into their culture and the market offers Hmong handmade items. Returning to our hotel dinner and the rest of the day are on your own.

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 - Chaing Mai  to Bangkok

After breakfast, we say goodbye to Chaing Mai and fly to Bangkok. After checking into our hotel the rest of the day is on your own.

Breakfast

Lunch and Dinner on my own

Day 11 - Bangkok -  Ayutthaya & Rice Barge Cruise

After breakfast, we leave for Bang Pa, the 18th-century summer palace of the kings of Thailand. From here we head to Ayutthaya, which was once the capital of Thailand for over four centuries.  We will have a guided tour of this ancient site that was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. Today, it is a sprawling ruin of 67-plus temples, monasteries, and chedis. We will also stop at Wat Yai Chai Mongkoi, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. Finally, we will board a traditional Thai rice barge for a meal and our cruise back to Bangkok, The rest of the day and dinner is on your own. 

Breakfast and Lunch

Dinner on your own.

Day 12 - Bangkok - Home

After Bangkok, we will head to the airport for our flight home, or you may also choose to take a three-day post-excursion to Angkor Wat, Cambodia.

Breakfast

Cambodia Post Excursion

Day One  - Bangkok- Siem Reap- Tonle Sap Lake

After breakfast will take a flight from Bangkok to Siem Reap, famous for the remarkable Khmer temples built in the 9th century. Lost for centuries in the jungle, these colossal stone temples are some of the most evocative religious sites in the world. After clearing immigration we will meet our local guide for a city tour and lunch on our own in Siem Reap's Old City. Our city tour will include Wat Dam Nak, the old royal palace, and Wat Preah Prom Rath, one of the most beautiful temples in Siem Reap. After our city tour, we will visit the Angkor National Museum, which is a good starting point for understanding the Khmer Empire. Tonight, after we check into our hotel, we will go to Phare, the Cambodian Circus for a one-hour performance that will be followed by our welcome dinner.

Breakfast 

Welcome Dinner

Lunch on own

Day Two - Angkor Wat -Short Circuit

After breakfast, we get an early start to follow the small circuit around the most impressive temples of Angor Wat. We will see the southern and eastern walls, the Hall of a Thousand Gods and climb the main temple for a view that seems to go on forever. Leaving the main temple, we go to Angkor Thom, a collection of temples including Bayon with its 216 smiling faces. Our next stop is Ta Prohm, and our final stop is Banteay Ldei, with its maze of chambers, buddhas, and bas-reliefs. Lunch will be on our own in the park. Returning to our hotel dinner is on your own.

Breakfast

Dinner and Lunch on your own

Day Three - Angkor Wat - Grand Circuit

After breakfast, we will leave for a tour of some of the lesser-known temples. We will visit Prasat Kravan, followed by the monumental pyramidal structure of Pre Rup, followed by East Mebon. Next, we go to Ta Som with its tree-consuming entrance and then we stop off at North Baray Lake to walk the boardwalk to the Neak Pean temple which has a maze of corridors to explore. On our ride back to Siem Reep, if it is before 5:30 p.m. we will have a photo stop at Angkor Wat which is beautiful at this time of day with the sun hitting its golden facade. Returning to our hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy with dinner on your own.

Breakfast and lunch

Dinner on own

Day Four - Siem Reap - U.S.

Today we say goodbye to Siem Reap Cambodia and head for home.

Hear What Travelers Are Saying...

Our travelers have been giving us rave reviews on some of our most popular tours that are leaving again in the Fall of 2024 and in the Spring and Summer of 2025. There is still space available on all the tours mentioned below. So sign up today and join us on one of our popular tours...we would love to have you!

Just listen... and be inspired. 

Scotland, Wales, and England...

"I have been a fan of Mary Queen of Scotts since high school and to actually tour her castle in Edinburgh is a dream come true. The entire day was capped off with the Spirit of Scotland Show which made me feel like a local! Our small group was friendly, we all got along and our local guides and tour director were great." - Suzy K

Utah's Mighty Five

"I just can't pick one that was my favorite park because they are all very special. The great surprise of this trip was all the Native American history that is intertwined with the tour of our National Parks. I really enjoyed our four-wheel drive with a real Navajo Guide through the landscape of Monument Valley. To top off the experience, we had an authentic Navajo cookout - wow, it was unforgettable because I learned so much. And, at my age, it's great to learn something new!" John R

Mackinac Island...

"I love the variety that this trip offers... it hit everything on my bucket list! Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame, Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, Mackinac Island, Frankenmuth and Niagara Falls, Canada... wow the trip went seamlessly with plenty of free time in each location. The delicious buffet at the Grand Hotel and the horse and carriage tour around the island was really the high point of this trip for me. I liked it so much, I want to do it again!!" Karen W

Sunsets and Southern Charm

"What a perfect trip for a fun-fueled 4-day getaway - this trip is action-packed - I loved it because I saw my two bucket list cities Charleston and Savannah in one trip that was a short flight away. I enjoyed touring the only American tea plantation and shopping in Charleston in the arts and crafts market. My favorite excursion was the horse and carriage tour of Beaufort - what a surprise this beautiful little town was. I liked it so much I hated to leave." Alice P

Tour Directors

"Janet made the trip even more enjoyable and made me feel right at home. She had a lot of tips that made navigating time on my own easy. She had a great relationship with the driver and they worked together like a team." Helen K

"XXX was always willing to help us in any way she could. She kept our trip running smoothly with everything on time. She was knowledgeable about what we were going to see and cared about our comfort every step of the way." Mary S

Ten Best Music Cities in America

America's music scene is vast, vibrant, and varied. Along with the ever-evolving music industry, several amazing cities have become meccas for music lovers from around the world. We have put together a list of remarkable cities where music has become an indelible part of their identity as destinations that people flock to. Whether you enjoy the soft sound of jazz, the twang of a steel guitar, the soulful sound of brass horns, or the thumping drums of hip-hop, there is something for everyone who really loves music.

Big or Small - Music Always Inspires

All that Jazz - New Orleans 

Some older timers in NOLA (New Orleans Lousiana) say that jazz grew organically out of drumming and voodoo rituals. Others say it was born in 1895, the year "Buddy" Bolden whose charisma and musical talent became legendary. Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, Pete Fountain, and Jeremy Davenport to name a few are just some of NOLA's musical legends. Traditional New Orleans jazz includes a cornet, trumpet, and trombone and they are still the foundation of most bands. Not much in the Big Easy happens without music - it is in the heart and soul of this city, especially in the famous French Quarter.  Needless to say, a trip to New Orleans isn't complete without hearing some jazz while sipping a Sazerac, made with rye, absinthe, and bitters. Jazz is the byproduct of the unique cultural environment of New Orleans, where one of America's most unique musical styles continues to evolve.

New Orleans - Smooth Jazz and Southern Charm

Music City - Nashville

From the onset, Nashville's foundation was built on music beginning with the fiddle playing of one of its most famous sons, Davey Crockett!  Today, Nashville is known as "Music City" and for good reason, there is music everywhere from its honky tonks located on Broadway to the famous Grand Ole Opry and the treasured Ryman Auditorium. You will feel welcome in this city where music is written, performed, and recorded 365 days a year! There are more than 180 music venues offering something for everyone. So many music legends have recorded in Nashville  -  Elvis, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Jimi Hendrix, Otis Redding, Little Richard, and Etta James to name a few.  In addition to riveting live performances, Nashville has several museums like the Musicians Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame, the National Museum of African American Music, and the Johnny Cash Museum. These museums are dedicated to the music and musicians that make this city reverberate. Today, Nashville is a hub for many different types of musical genres making it easy to see why this is the place music calls home! 

The Grand Ole Opry a Musical Extravaganza

Memphis -  Home of the King and Rock n' Roll

You can't talk about American music without talking about Memphis, the place where rock n' roll was born. Not to mention that the king of rock n' roll, Elvis made his home here. Memphis isn't just about rock n' roll and Elvis though, it is also about soul, gospel, rhythm, and blues, as the major genres that have deep roots in the cultural heritage of this city. To put a fine point on the musical heritage of Memphis four museums pay tribute to the city's musical contribution to the world - Blues Hall of Fame, Rock and Soul Museum, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Sun Records Studio Museum. A visit to Memphis isn't complete without touring Graceland, the home of Elvis, and wandering down Beale Street which invokes the memory of musicians that have played here in the past and those future stars performing today.

Sun Studio where Elvis recorded his first song!

Mississippi Delta Blues Trail 

If you want to take a deep dive into the blues, the root source of so much of our modern music, cruise the Blues Trail where you will discover Mississippi Delta culture and its musical heritage. More famous blues musicians have come from the Delta than any other region or state combined!  There are countless landmarks and 19  museums to visit along the way including the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center, the Delta Blues Museum, the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, and the Gateway to the Blues Museum, to name a few. A highlight of the trail is a stop in Clarksdale, where Sam Cooke, Muddy Waters, and Ike Turner got their start. It is also home to the Crossroads where legend has it that Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for supernatural musical ability. Juke joints and roadhouses offer down-home blues 356 days a year and scrumptious southern cooking. Best of all this road trip immerses you in the places, people, and energy that inspired this music that is still impacting music around the world.

At the Crossroads in Clarksdale

Musical Diversity - New York

New York is known worldwide for its musical diversity. The city is the birthplace of hip-hop, behop, garage house, New York Punk,  and Broadway musicals, which have been created by a unique blend of cultures that is New York. Many music legends may live in the LA area, but most got their start in New York City! Michael Jackon, Madonna, Debbie Harry, Ella Fitzgerald, Run DMC, Dylan, Billy Joel, and countless others all began their careers in "the city."  There is the historic Carnegie Hall, Broadway, Radio City, the Lincoln Center, the Hip Hop clubs of the Bronx, the iconic Apollo Theater, and countless clubs and cafes where music spills out onto the sidewalks making New York not hard to love. To learn more about Hip Hop head to the new Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx that traces the local and global history of this genre. If jazz is more your speed, check out the National Jazz Museum in Harlem; and if you like Broadway, don't miss the Museum of Broadway where you will see hundreds of rare costumes, props, and artifacts.

Lincoln Center An Amazing Venue

Detriot - Motown

In Detroit, Motown was born. Think Diana Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, the Four Tops, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder, to name a few. With the success of these musicians, Detriot became known as "Hitsville." From blues to soul to techno, the Motor City rocks. Something in the air of Detriot fosters good music, and the city today continues to be a source of musical inspiration. As a matter of fact, Connecticut's Michael Bolton, who called the city a "melting pot of music" recently recorded Ain't No Mountain High Enough: A Tribute to Hitsville. An essential part of any visit to Detroit is a trip to the Motown Museum- Hitsville, USA, the famous headquarters of Motown Records which is full of photos, costumes, and memorabilia of its hit-making artists.

Motown Museum - Motown moved the LA in 1972. But all the hits from the 60s were recorded here.

Chicago - Strikes a Chord

Today Chicago is considered a global music leader with a music scene that is as strong as ever, across genres including hip-hop, indie rock, electronic dance music, and experimental jazz. It is also the birthplace of house and gospel music, urban blues, and modern jazz. The city has long been considered a major hotspot for the blues; it even hosts the Chicago Blues Festival, the largest of its kind in the world.  To experience this music mecca explore the riffs and beats that fill the bars in Chicago's 77 neighborhoods that will speak to your soul. In this city, you can come face-to-face with both emerging artists and established legends.

Music reigns in Chicago from small nightclubs to opulent theaters

Los Angeles - Rock On

There is perhaps no music scene in the country that has hosted more famous rock acts than Sunset Strip. This area gave many of rock's future stars their first taste of the spotlight. This is where iconic bands of the '60s and '70s, 80s, and beyond hit their stride - The Beach Boys, The Doors, The Birds, Guns and Roses, Buffalo Springfield, Ratt, Motley Crue, Van Halen, and Stone Temple Pilots among many others.  If you are on the Strip head to the iconic Whisky a Go Go or the Roxy Theater that has witnessed the rise of countless musical legends. The Hollywood Bowl and the Troubadour are cherished institutions for both artists and music lovers. In downtown LA head to a concert venue, a speakeasy, or a bar to listen to an impressive array of live performances where you just might be hearing the next big thing! Don't miss the Music Museum that is inside the Grammy Museum where you will learn about the technology and creativity that inspires American music.

Whiskey A Go Go still going!

Two Stepping in Austin

Austin has proclaimed itself to be the Live Music Capital of the World and has even trademarked it to prove their point! There are more than 250 venues that offer live music where musicians play seemingly everywhere! Whether your musical taste is geared toward country-western or rock n' roll, you are sure to find a place worth visiting. Not to be missed is the Broken Spoke, an old-fashioned honky-tonk where you can do some Texas two-stepping, Antone's Nightclub that has been Austin's home of the blues since 1975 ( Buddy Guy and Clapton have performed here), the Moody Theater, home of the longest-running TV music series,  Donn's Depot, located in an old Missouri-Pacific train caboose, and Scoot Inn, the oldest bar in Central Texas. To learn more about Austin's music scene head to the Texas Music Museum which collects and preserves the diverse traditions and sounds of Texas music.

Two Step at the Broken Spoke

Las Vegas - Dazzling Shows 365 Days a Year

The city that never sleeps is home to some of the world's most amazing music venues like the T-Mobile Arena, the House of Blues, and the Brooklyn Bowl. Don't forget the casino theaters that feature such performers as  Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, The Eagles, Lionel Richie, and Adele among other luminaries. To get up close and personal with your favorite performers head to the House of Blues, if classical music is more your thing, go to the Petrossian Bar for piano music and cocktails, for country music there is Gilley's Saloon, and for a touch of south seas exotica head to Frankie's Tiki Room. If you want to leave the Vegas strip, go for a stroll along Freemont Street which offers live free music 365 days a year.

Get up close at House of Blues

There is nothing like tapping your toes when listening to your favorite music. When you visit a city that is in love with music, it is just so much more fun! Let Tours of Distinction help plan your musical adventure... and don't forget to pack your dancing shoes!

Cruise Tips for Alaska

Varied landscapes. amazing wildlife, glistening glaciers, and a unique cultural heritage are just some of the reasons why a cruise to Alaska is on most people's bucket lists. Cruising in Alaska is the best and most economical way to explore this state. Cruise itineraries are normally seven to ten days and many include several shore excursions for those who want to see more of Alaska. Whether you are a first-time cruiser to Alaska or a veteran; TOD has put together a list of cruise tips to help you make the most of your time on our Alaskan cruise.

Alaska the untamed beauty of Glacier Bay

When to Go

Cruise season in Alaska runs from late April through early October because this is the time of year when the weather and daylight are optimal. If you cruise in May and September you will experience fewer crowds as well as cheaper prices. The warmest temperatures are in mid-June, making this a peak time to visit. During this time of year, you will also experience the midnight sun which lasts the longest three weeks after and three weeks before the summer solstice. If you want to see the northern lights, you may get lucky in mid-September and early October.

Time Zones

Alaska has two time zones, Alaska Time and Hawaii - Aleutian Time. Most of the state is four hours behind the East Coast. From West Coast destinations, it is one hour behind. The Hawaiian-Aleutian time affects the western islands along the Aleutian chain. The town of Hyder, in the inside passage, observes two time zones because it is bisected by the US/Canada border. With almost 19 hours of daylight in the summer, expect your sleep patterns to be a little different.

Best Time to See Wildlife

Wherever you go, spotting wildlife is never a guarantee. According to the Alaska Tourism Board, the best time to see wildlife ashore is in late May and early June. This is the time of year when mothers and their calves and cubs tend to be roaming around. The prime season to see bears is late June and early July and the best salmon fishing is in July and August. It is important to remember that Denali National Park doesn't open until mid-May if you want to take a land excursion there. Denali National Park may close in September due to snow.

Glorious Glaciers

Weather Expectations

Temperatures in Alaska can change from one destination to the next. This is the Arctic so plan on cool temperatures.  Even if you come in the height of summer, with the warmest weather, it can still be rainy. May is one of the driest months in the Inside Passage, a sheltered waterway between Vancouver Island and British Columbia known for its excellent scenery.

What to Pack

In the summer it is best to dress in layers so that you can peel off or add layers according to the thermometer. You will want to pack a bathing suit, a warm fleece jacket, a raincoat or rain poncho, a hat, gloves, and clothes that layer easily like turtlenecks and sweaters. Waterproof clothing including shoes or hiking boots is always a good idea to bring along.  For dinner and events on the boat, you may want to bring something dressy. Alaskans joke that their state bird is the mosquito so don't leave home without your bug spray! Another item to pack is sunscreen especially when touring glaciers as the sun's UV rays are strong. To spot wildlife consider bringing binoculars and if you are a photographer don't forget to bring a zoom lens. Most ships don't offer a wake-up call or have an alarm clock, so it is best to pack one or download an alarm clock app on your phone.

Skagway - famous for the Gold Rush of the 1890s

Motion Sickness Medicine

Sometimes the waters along the Pacific Coast and across the Gulf of Alaska can be choppy. If you get seasick easily, make sure to pack Bonine motion sickness tablets and sea bands for your wrists.  It is also a good idea to book a mid-ship cabin with a balcony; having fresh air and a view to fix your eye on can help quell nausea. Another advantage of a balcony is that it is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Alaska.

What to See in Denali National Park

June through September is the best time to visit this park for a chance to see Alaska's "big five" - wolves, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and bears. The National Park Service estimates that around 350 brown bears live in Denali National Park on the north side of the Alaska Range.

One of Alaska's Big Five!

What to Buy

For retail therapy, Alaska offers some unique items found only in this state. A favorite among travelers is gold nugget jewelry and items carved from jade and ivory. Hand-crafted items include woven baskets made from beach grass, bark, or baleen, animal skins, collector's items made from bone, and handmade toys and clothing. For foodies, there are Alaskan delicacies like smoked salmon, wild berry products, and reindeer sausage. Items reflecting Alaska's cultural heritage include seal oil candles, beaded mittens, fur mukluks, and mini hand-carved totem poles. As a note aside items made of walrus ivory should be mailed home because they can't be taken through customs without special permits.

For Foodies

Alaskan food is predicated on its geography which is a lot of coastline so expect to eat a lot of fish! Alaskan fish and chips, Pacific halibut, salmon, oysters, and King crab are a must-have for foodies. An iconic food is reindeer sausage which is typically a mix of reindeer, pork, or beef and is a breakfast staple. Fry bread is a traditional snack of Alaska's Native Americans that is made from dry milk, salt, yeast, flour, and sugar and deep fried. Another Native American food is akkutaq or Eskimo Ice Cream made from whipped fat (reindeer fat or tallow or seal oil), berries, and snow. Blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, lingonberries, cloudberries, watermelon berries, and baneberries are harvested throughout the summer.

Cloudberries a sweet Arctic treat

A cruise is by far the easiest and best way to see Alaska with the added advantage of not having to pack and unpack every day. Booking a Tours of Distinction Alaska group tour cruise with land excursions gives travelers the best options of both worlds.

Packing for a Bus Trip

Traveling by motorcoach is one of the best ways to sit back, relax, and see the scenery. After all, you are being driven by a professional who is handling the navigation and traffic making it the perfect time to get into vacation mode. If you haven't taken a motorcoach trip before or if it has been a while, check out our tips on what to expect, how to pass the time, and what to take with you. 

The Hidden Joys of Motorcoach Travel 

In addition to not having to worry about tolls, navigate traffic, or find the right exit, taking a bus trip is a sustainable way of traveling. Many of the motorcoaches used by Tours of Distinction feature the latest technology in emission control and fuel efficiency. Traveling as a group also reduces the number of passenger cars on the road, reducing fuel usage and pollution. Traveling with a group on a bus is one of the most economical ways to travel.

Motorcoach travel not only takes the stress out of travel, it also improves safety because travelers are in the hands of highly trained professional drivers. Our drivers take great pride in keeping their bus in tip-top shape to ensure your safety and comfort. They are helpful and courteous when boarding and disembarking and are expert baggage handlers.  Taking a bus trip reduces the stress of traveling while keeping you safe. 

Tours of Distinction and our motorcoach partners are also committed to your health and well-being while traveling with us. Our motorcoach partners are vetted and practice enhanced cleaning procedures throughout the trip. In addition, motorcoaches must meet strict insurance and operation guidelines that must be adhered to before they go on a trip. Buses are constantly maintained by licensed mechanics to keep them in top condition. And, if there is a breakdown, a team of professionals will be there to help get things back on track as quickly as possible.

All of our motorcoaches offer free wi-fi in North America and Europe, and some buses are equipped with video monitors. Comfortable seating with enough legroom, climate controls, overhead bins, and no smoking, adds to the pleasures of traveling by bus.

Passing the Time

If you are on a long haul trip, where rest stops are made every three or four hours and you are wondering how to pass the time, we have a few suggestions.

Many of our tour directors on long and short motorcoach trips have noticed that it is a convivial time when friends old and new start new conversations to learn about one another or to catch up on each other's lives. After all, half the fun of traveling is meeting new people and having new experiences. 

All the motorcoaches TOD uses are equipped with wi-fi and charging areas, so don't forget your connectors. One great way to pass the time is to watch your favorite movie or catch up on a series you keep missing.  Some folks find listening to their favorite music or to an audiobook is a way to make time fly by. To stay connected, you might consider bringing along a power bank to ensure that your phone, kindle, or iPad is always ready to be used.

If you like "hard copy," bring a few books, your favorite magazines, and crossword puzzles.

Spending time researching your destination is a fun way to make the hours go by, and so is starting a travel journal - that is so rewarding to read when you get home. A travel journal makes good material for a scrapbook of memories. 

If you have hobbies to catch up on this is a great time to do that. Knitting, braiding, crocheting, embroidering, or sketching are all activities that pass the time.

Part of the fun of travel is getting to know new people. Don't forget group travel is just that, so - remember to reach out and get to know your seat partner and the folks sitting around you. You are traveling with people that share some of your interests and along the way, you just might make a few new friends. These connections can enrich your travel experience and may even lead to future trips together. Tell funny stories, discuss attractions you have seen or will be seeing, play games, or catch up on events in your life...and have fun!

All Aboard - What to Bring

The key to what to bring on board a motorcoach is knowing your itinerary, what stops you will be making during the day, and the activities you will be participating in. This is why Tours of Distinction always has a professional Tour Director traveling with our groups. Tour Directors always give details on what the day's activities will be making planning easy for you in deciding what you need for the day.

Check the weather and dress accordingly for it and for the destinations you will be visiting. Many motorcoach travelers like to dress comfortably.

Some like it hot, some like it cold, always dress in layers and bring a light sweater or jacket. A light jacket or sweater may come in handy when you get off the motorcoach at a planned stop. 

If you like to sleep on a motorcoach, bring a neck pillow, blanket, and earplugs. If you have a bad back, try a back pillow for extra comfort. 

If the sun bothers you, bring your sunglasses to help with the glare.

Make sure you bring all your medications including motion sickness medication if you are prone to feeling queasy on long rides. 

Don't forget your bottled water, it is important to stay hydrated and energized. 

Hand sanitizers, lip balm, tissues, and eyeglass cleaners may also come in handy.

Snacks always come in handy on a bus trip, so bring your favorites, and don't be afraid to share! Non-perishable snacks like nuts, granola bars, candy, dried fruit, crackers, and cookies are good options.

One of the biggest advantages of taking a motorcoach trip is the convenience it offers. Transportation, hotels, meals, and attractions are all mapped out for you to enjoy. This means more time to unwind and enjoy the journey while the professionals take care of the logistics that have been meticulously planned for your pleasure.