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. 

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.

2024 Best Summer Island Vacations

Summer is traditionally the time most people like to take a vacation. The days are longer, the weather is warm and there are plenty of special events and festivals to attend that let visitors experience local culture and food. An island summer vacation is the perfect way to recharge and create unforgettable memories to look back on. Who doesn't like relaxing on a white sand beach, sipping a cocktail at sunset, exploring historic castles, watching wildlife frolic in their natural habitat, or enjoying lobster overlooking the ocean?  These are recipes for a truly magical summer island vacation, and here are a few of our favorites for 2024.

Victorian Elegance at its best @ the Grand Hotel

Somewhere In Time Exists -   Mackinac Island 

There is something irresistible about visiting a place that makes you feel like you have hopped into a time machine. Mackinac Island is one of those places. It is a place where you slow down and smile more. The allure of Mac Island is a combination of the calm waters of Lake Huron, ornate Victorian houses with fragrant gardens, and the fact that there are no cars. The only way to explore this island's landscape, 80% of it being part of a National Park, is by horse and carriage; cars were banned in the 1880s! Simple pleasures abound here. Stroll the charming Main Street and sample fudge, hike to Arch Rock, explore Fort Mackinac dating to the Revolutionary War, picnic on a beach, and dream away on the world's largest porch at America's Queen of Victorian Resorts, The Grand Hotel, the famous setting for the movie Somewhere in Time. 

A Royal Greeting in the British Isles

Fit for Royalty - Scotland, Wales, and England 

The British Isles in the summer are simply enchanting. The weather is milder and sunnier during this time of year making it the perfect time to tour historic gardens, castles, and the charming towns and villages these countries have to offer. In Scotland enjoy touring Glasgow, Britain's finest "Victorian City" and Edinburgh's "Royal Mile," explore the Highlands and hear tales of the Loch Ness monster, and visit a distillery for a wee dram of whiskey. In Wales take a scenic ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, visit the National Slate Museum, and tour Caernarfon Castle the most impressive Norman castle in Wales. And, in England, visit Windsor Castle, Europe's longest-occupied palace for royalty, and see London's iconic sites - Westminister Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, the British Museum, and Tower of London. A summer trip to these island countries promises to be a delightful blend of culture, history, nature, and adventure that will make you want to return again and again.

Back to the 1950s

1950s Vibe - Cuba 

A journey to this legendary island is a unique experience because its isolation has helped preserve the authenticity of Cuban culture. From its cloud forests, and vibrant cities to its beautiful white sand, palm-fringed beaches, and shimmering coral reefs, Cuba is an island not to be missed. In Havana, classic cars rumble along cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial-style buildings and mansions amid park squares that beckon exploration. Visit the Museum of the Revolution, tour a cigar factory, sip a mojito in one of Hemingway's old haunts, sample delicious Cuban cuisine, and party at a jazz or salsa club. The music and dance of Cuba are some of the most sensuous in the world and include the mambo, rumba, and cha-cha-cha.  Somehow, Cuba seems to be lost somewhere in the 1950s, and not just because of the cars or crumbling mansions, it seems the gentrification of mass tourism has passed them by, for now. This is the time to go.

Yoga in Paradise

Wellness Naturally - Galapagos Island Retreat 

Rest, relaxation, and well-being come naturally in the pristine beauty of the Galapagos Islands.  Nestled off the coast of Ecuador, in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos provide the perfect backdrop for those who want to unplug, slow down, and connect with themselves, nature, and others around them. With healthy food,  sunrise, and sunset yoga on the beach, and the chance to see wildlife found nowhere else on earth, this is a wellness experience like no other. Whether taking a nature walk along volcanic landscapes, observing giant tortoises, spotting blue eyes boobies, boating to remote islands to see marine iguanas, snorkeling in crystalline waters, or swimming alongside curious marine life, you will feel a deep connection with the natural world. If you are looking for a wellness experience to reconnect with yourself,  the serene beauty of the Galapagos Islands provides a unique sanctuary and otherwordly experience.

Block Island a New England Gem

Lighthouses and Lobster Block Island

If you like islands with dramatic bluffs, beautiful beaches, lighthouses, charming Victorian architecture, and lobster, fresh off the boat, then head to Block Island this summer.  Block Island has some of New England's finest beaches, rolling hills, and scenic spots that offer breathtaking views like Mohegan Bluffs that overlook the Atlantic Ocean. A visit to Block Island's two lighthouses offers a glimpse into the island's fascinating maritime history and a lobster lunch at a historic hotel overlooking the water after shopping along boutique-lined streets is a must. 

Whether you choose a wellness island getaway, lobster for a day, a trip fit for royalty, a step back to the 1950s, or a place so unspoiled that there are no cars, you will enjoy authentic experiences at these island gems. 

Where to See Spring Tulips in Holland

Tulips and Holland go hand and hand and seeing the colorful fields here that seem to stretch on for miles is a popular and rewarding experience. The tulip season in Holland begins in mid-January with greenhouses growing and selling tulips all over the country. Fields of colorful blooming tulips peak from mid-March through mid.- May. Many experts say the best month to see the tulip fields is in April. There are so many ways to experience the beauty of tulips which are an integral part of Dutch culture. Here are nine interesting facts about Holland's tulips.

Spring in Holland, A Sea of Color

Tulips Didn't Originate in Holland

Today, tulips are the national icon of Holland but the fact is that they didn't originate in the Netherlands. Tulips are from the mountains of Kazakhstan and found their way to the Netherlands via Persia, China, Turkey, and Antwerp.

Take the whisper boat ride amid colorful tulips

Tulipmania is a Historical Fact

Tulips first appeared in Holland in 1593 in the Hortus Botanicus in Leiden. As they spread throughout the country, in 1636, Dutch society went crazy over these exotic flowers causing "Tulipmania"! At this time, the Netherlands was newly independent from Spain and flush with wealthy traders from the Dutch East India Company, ready to purchase this rare commodity that was in demand. The appearance of these beautiful flowers also coincided with the newly emerging upper and middle classes that wanted flowers for their gardens. Tulip prices spiked from the winter of 1636 through the winter of 1637 with some of the most prized bulbs selling for 12 times their original asking price. Most speculators in Tulipmania were people who could afford luxury goods. As all good things must come to an end, the tulip market came to an abrupt end because many defaulted on paying up for their exotic tulips. Economically, Tulipmania is considered to be the first speculative bubble to burst when it finally collapsed in 1637.

It's All About the Bulbs

The delightful sight of seeing endless rows of brightly colored flowers is a delight. Farmers growing tulips don't grow them for their color, they grow them for their bulbs. The larger the bulb, the more money the farmer can collect. The Netherlands exports up to three billion tulip bulbs a year all over the world.

How Long Will a Field Bloom?

The flowers in many tulip fields are cut down after three weeks because they are grown for the bulb, not the bloom. In Keukenhof Garden, the blooms are never cut back. They plant the flowers in layers to ensure earlier and longer blooming periods.

The wonderland of Keukenhof Gardens

Don't Miss Keukenhof Gardens

Perhaps the most famous place to see tulips in the Netherlands is the centrally located Keukenhof Gardens, known as the "Garden of Europe." This garden is a sea of yellow, orange, red, pink, white, and purple tulips that are artfully displayed. There are more than seven million bulbs that can be seen in this vast expanse of color.  The air here is fragrant with flowering cherry trees, lovely hyacinths, and golden narcissuses that line pathways. This park has countless paths to wander, canals, ponds, fountains, sculptures, and a windmill.  One of the most unique ways to see this garden is to take an electrically powered "whisper boat." 

Where Are the Best Flower Fields & Farms

The best fields are found in Bollenstreek, the Dutch Flower Region, located close to Amsterdam, Haarlem, Delft, The Hague, and Leiden. The flower fields have been grown here for more than 400 years on excavated dunes. Most tulip farms are located in Noordoostpolder in the province of Felvoland. To see the largest contiguous area of flower bulbs in the world, visit Kop van Noord-Holland, a stretch of reclaimed land between the North Sea and IJsselmeer Lake. The charming village of Lisse in the Bulb Region is simply enchanting with its traditional homes and lovely gardens that are surrounded by lakes and the sea.

Picture Perfect Fields and Farms

Seasonal Festivals

Many cities and towns have tulip festivals and parades. As a matter of fact, tulip season kicks off with National Tulip Day in mid-January where folks are invited to Museum Square to pick a bouquet for free. One of the country's biggest festivals, the Amsterdam Tulip Festival takes place in April and is followed by the Blemencorso Bollenstreek parade with its colorful floats adorned with tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and more. Just an hour north of Amsterdam, the Noordoostolder Tulip Festival takes place from mid-April through mid-May and features show gardens, tulip mosaics, fields, and a craft market

Photo Ops

The combination of the colorful tulip fields and traditional Dutch Windmills provides a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Dos and Dont's

Tulips are fragile. It is considered extremely rude to enter a flower field - you never enter a field for fear of damage or spreading diseases to the bulbs. Respect fences, ropes, and signs - even if there are no fences, don't enter a field. If you want to take close-up photos of tulips, bring a zoom lens. Even though it may be tempting, don't pick tulips from the fields!

Spring in the Netherlands is a floral extravaganza for flower enthusiasts when the landscape is transformed into a colorful patchwork quilt of sheer beauty.