P.O. Box 611 15464 Wellington Drive
Dahlgren, VA 22448 King George, VA 22485
Phone: 540-663-2718 Website: kinggeorgetravel.com
Email:
KING GEORGE TRAVEL NEWSLETTER November 2017
King George Travel ESCORTED GROUP TRIPS:
FEB 3-11, 2018: 7-NIGHT WINTER GET-AWAY CRUISE ON CELEBRITY'S SILHOUETTE
Escorted by Sally & Bud
To all who have cruised with us before and to all "future" cruisers, we would love to have you join us for this exciting adventure. We will fly from Washington Reagan on February 3, 2018. As usual, we will travel one day prior to sailing to allow for any unforeseen airline glitches that might arise! We will spend the night prior to the cruise at the Courtyard by Marriott Airport hotel. After breakfast the next morning, we will be taken to Port Everglades to board Celebrity's beautiful Solstice Class ship, the Silhouette, and prepare to set sail.
Escape the cold and enjoy these Ports of Call: Key West, Florida; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico & George Town, Grand Cayman. Ernest Hemingway made wild, colorful KEY WEST his home, and you will want to do the same. Home to modern-day adventurers, artists and poets, the island's charming Old Town teems with restaurants, bars and unique shops. Add pristine coral reefs, coconut palms and a laid-back attitude that' truly contagious, and it's easy to see why so many visitors to Key West never leave.
COSTA MAYA boasts beautiful beaches on the Caribbean Sea, which is ideal for divers and snorkelers alike who enjoy exploring the beautiful BancoChinchorro coral reef that lies just off the coast. History buffs will surely love exploring the lesser-known Mayan ruins, Cacchoben and Kohunlich. Enjoy the new shopping mall which features a central plaza with saltwater pools and 'swim-up' bars as well as great shopping.
The Conquistadors first saw Mexico from the shores of COZUMEL while searching for gold. Today, visitors to the island continue to seek out gold and silver jewelry in the shops of San Miguel while having a great time in its many local bars and restaurants. The waters around Cozumel's sheltered coral reefs make this one of the best snorkeling areas in the world.
GRAND CAYMAN is one of a group of three magnificent tropical islands Christopher Columbus called "Las Tortugas" (the turtles) for the sea creatures he found in the ocean. The designation did not endure, however, for on later maps the islands were labeled the Caimanau, the Carib Indian word for "crocodile." The name "Caimanas" refers inaccurately to the iguanas native to the islands, which were perhaps at one point mistaken for crocodiles. Visitors to GRAND CAYMAN will enjoy learning about the many turtles and sea creatures in the area as well as visiting the town of Hell and exploring the Seven-Mile Beach.
Contact us right away if you are interested in joining Sally & Bud on this fun Caribbean Get-away Roundtrip motor coach transportation from King George, airfare on Jet Blue Airlines from DCA, hotel accommodations, taxes, and all transportation in Ft Lauderdale are included in a separate pre-cruise package we are offering to those who wish to travel with us. OK - now it's your turn! Let us know as soon as possible if you are considering joining us and we will reply immediately with a quote for the type of stateroom you'd prefer!
FEB 25-MAR 9, 2018: 11-NIGHT AFRICAN SAFARI IN TANZANIA with optional EXOTIC ZANZIBAREXTENSION
Escorted by Teri
How about joining Teri on the most incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience: an African safari? If you've never been to Africa or even if you've been on a safari in the past, this adventure will NOT DISAPPOINT! And there are just a few spaces left on this exciting safari in Tanzania, Africa! On this thrilling ALL-INCLUSIVE journey, join Teri in witnessing the extraordinary trek across the Serengeti plains in which over 2 MILLION wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing herbivores take part in each year in their quest to live on as they follow their annual migration path.
Our hand-chosen veteran guides will lead our small group safari as we see and learn about the vast numbers of animals and birds in the wildlife-rich and culturally diverse northern circuit of Tanzania while exploring the unique Ngorongoro Crater, the National Parks of Tarangire and the world-renowned Serengeti, and the most famous archaeological site in East Africa "Oldupai Gorge." We will also visit some of the most fascinating cultures in Africa: the semi-nomadic Maasai with their distinctive customs and dress, the extraordinary nomadic Hadzabe Bushmen who are THE LAST full-time hunter gatherers in Africa, and others of the 120+ different tribes in Tanzania.
Our safari will bring us to where the incredible Annual Migration all begins! During the first few months of the year, the vast herds of wildebeest congregate in the southern Serengeti to graze the sweet grasses, and to give birth to thousands of newborn calves, some 400,000 calves in a remarkable synchronized birth which lasts just a few weeks. It's an incredible sight to see so many baby wildebeest closely following their moms amongst the massive herds. We may even get the chance to see a birth!
'Think' amazing sunsets - especially affordable in the great African plains, unforgettable wildlife sightings - including the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard & rhino), and of course, the witnessing of so many other incredible animals throughout the safari (giraffe, cheetah, zebra, hippos, topi, eland, and so many more). Tanzania boasts a population of over 4 million animals in-country! Imagine riding a hot air balloon over the world renown Serengeti! You'll have the opportunity to take part in this optional activity for an additional fee.
During our stay in Tanzania, you will enjoy the comfort of luxury lodges and luxury tented camps (all accommodations have private en suite bathrooms). All meals, bottled water, Park & Conservation fees, Cultural visits, all transportation while in Tanzania with English-speaking professional driver/guides and gratuities are included in this adventure.
Extend your trip to relax on the beaches of the exotic Tanzanian Island of Zanzibar! This 3-night optional extension will give you time to visit historic Stone Town, snorkel in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and/or just relax on the beach after your great safari adventure!
This is an amazing experience, one which will leave you with a lifetime of incredible photos and memories! We limit this adventure to a small group to better enhance your experience, so contact us soon if you are interested in joining this extraordinary journey! We will be happy to provide you with a detailed itinerary, trip cost and address any specific questions that you may have.
APRIL 26-MAY 6, 2018: 8-NIGHT MEDICAL MISSION TANZANIA
Escorted by Teri & Becky Van Renan
More details on this Humanitarian effort at the Servant Heart Medical Missions non-profit organization website: servant-heart.org or by contacting Teri directly: 540-760-8178 or
JUNE 10-21, 2018: 10-NIGHT ENCHANTING ITALY
Escorted by Teri
This small private group tour, escorted by Teri, will feature some of the most interesting and beautiful areas in Italy! Whether this will be your first time to Italy or tenth time, this special tour will give you a unique look at the beautiful country. Our small sized group will have better access and more individualized features which you will love!
We will spend 2 nights in the fascinating city of Venice, taking in its unique architecture and canals as well as elegant ambiance for two nights. Our private tours in this picturesque "car-less" city include Skip-the-Line access to Saint Mark's Basilica and a Gondola ride on the famous canals of Venice.
Then we will set out for the gorgeous Tuscany region, staying in Florence for 5 nights. Our time here will includeday trips to explore the surrounding areas as well as the captivating sights within Florence. Florence is a charming city well-known for its masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture as well as home to one of the most beautiful Duomos in all of Italy. We will enjoy Skip-the-Line access to the Galleria dell'Accademia to admire Michelangelo's David and tour the best sites of the city.
Our day tours will include: Cinque Terre - with options to take the train or hike between the five enchanting Cinque Terre villages; a visit to the Tuscan hills famous for wine and amazing food - the intriguing walled city of San Gimignano and historic Siena.
And no tour to Italy would be complete without a stay in Rome! We will stay in Rome for 3 nights, enjoying private tours such as: Vatican City - including Michelangelo's amazing Sistine Chapel and the beautiful St. Peter's Basilica; and VIP access into the restricted areas of the Colosseum along with Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum!
Italian cuisine is yet another reason to travel to Italy! The scrumptious dishes are a gastronomical delight! And...there is gelato! :-) If you are interested in joining Teri on this fantastic tour to Italy, let us know soon! We will be happy to provide you with the itinerary and more specific details.
AUG 25-SEP 3, 2018: 8-NIGHT ICELAND'S NATURAL WONDERS
Escorted by Teri
Iceland has some of the world's most dramatic landscapes with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, beaches, fjords, tranquil villages, lakes and lagoons,and more! Join Teri on this great small group private adventure to a land not too far away! Non-stop flights from the Washington D.C. area are only about 6 hours and have remained a great bargain!
On this fun and exciting 8-nightescapade, we will spend 7 of the days traveling around the diverse countryside with our professional English-speaking guide. Our guide will provide commentary and assistance while we experience the best of what Iceland has to offer! Our Comfort-level accommodations will include daily breakfast, most dinners and lunches.
The vibrant city of Reykjavik offers a variety of shops, galleries and restaurants to suit all tastes - all within an easy walking distance. We will spend 1 night in Iceland's capital city when we first arrive in Iceland, and then again on the last night of the tour as well.
Some of the highlights of the trip will include: the Golden Circle - including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall and the Strokkur geyser; phenomenal waterfalls and impressive landscapes in the south coast area of the country; Skaftafell and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon; East Iceland's rugged fjords; and North Iceland's roaring Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall; Lake Myvatn with its lunar landscapes and fabulous natural warm geothermal pools (which we can relax in!); Asbyrgi Canon ; and visits to tranquil villages to give us insight as to life lead by Icelanders.
We will be happy to send you a more detailed itinerary and trip information. Please let us know right away if you are interested in participating in this great adventure!
OCTOBER 2018: 11-NIGHT AFRICAN MIGRATION SAFARI with optional EXOTIC ZANZIBAR EXTENSION
Escorted by Teri
You're invited to witness the greatest migration on earth! Join Teri on the adventure-of-a-lifetime: an All-Inclusive Great Migration Safari in Tanzania, Africa! On this thrilling journey, you will experience the extraordinary trek across the Serengeti plains in which over 2 MILLION wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing herbivores take part in each year in their quest of live on as they follow their annual migration path.
Our hand-chosen veteran guides will lead our small group 'on safari' as we see and learn about the vast numbers of animals and birds in the wildlife-rich and culturally diverse northern circuit of Tanzania while exploring the unique Ngorongoro Crater, the National Parks of Tarangire, Manyara and the world-renowned Serengeti, and the most famous cultures of Africa: the semi-nomadic Maasai with their distinctive customs and dress, the extraordinary nomadic Hadzabe bushmen who are THE LAST full-time hunter gatherers in Africa, and others of the 120+ different tribes in Tanzania.
On this fall adventure, as a Grand Finale, we will wind our way to the northern Serengeti where the vast herds migrate during this time of year as they chase the rains. This will provide us the chance to possibly experience an exciting River Crossing of the herds! The great frontier of the northern Serengeti is also where you will see plenty of HUGE Nile Crocodiles as they lounge in and along the river frontage awaiting their dinner, as well as see an abundance of other wildlife.
Amazing sunsets - especially affordable in the great African plains, unforgettable wildlife settings - including the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino), and of course, the witnessing of so many other incredible animals throughout the safari - giraffe, cheetah, zebra, hippos, topi, eland, as well as a profusion of colorful and unique birds. Tanzania boasts an incredible population of over 4 million animals in-country!
During your 11-night stay in Tanzania, you will enjoy the comfort of luxury lodges, such as the impressive Gibbs Farm, and luxury tented camps (all have private en suite bathrooms with flushable toilets and hot water showers!). All meals, bottled water, Park & Conservations fees, Cultural visits included on the itinerary, all transportation while in Tanzania with English-speaking professional driver/guides and even gratuities are included in this adventure. We take all the stress out of travel and leave you to enjoy the amazing experiences which will leave you with a lifetime of incredible memories!
Extend your trip to relax on the beaches of the exotic Tanzanian Island of Zanzibar! This 3-night optional extension will give you time to visit historic Stone Town, snorkel in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and/or just relax on the beach after your great safari adventure!
If you've always wanted to see the world's most remarkable migration in action, this is your chance! Let us know if you'd like to join Teri for a unique adventure to Tanzania!
NOV 9-24, 2018: 14-NIGHT FAR EAST CRUISE - JAPAN, CHINA, TAIWAN
Escorted by Teri
A cruise is a great way to see the far eastern country highlights of Japan, China and Taiwan! Join Teri on this affordable 14-night cruise, while enjoying the comforts and convenience of staying on your "floating" hotel, onboard the beautiful Celebrity Millennium. Japan hotels are pricey, and not having to re-pack your bags in between locations is an added bonus! We will board the ship in Tokyo, Japan, then travel to these fantastic ports of call: Mt. Fuji; 2 days in Kobe, Japan; Kagoshima, Japan; Shanghai, China; Okinawa, Japan; 2 days in Taipei, Taiwan; 2 days in Hong Kong, China.
MT. FUJI is considered one ofJapan's 3 sacred mountains, standing at 3,776 meters tall, and is Japan's highest peak. The picturesque, nearly perfect-shaped volcano is frequently seen in travel magazines and portrayed in artwork, and WE will be close enough to photograph its beauty ourselves! The first port of call also will provide us opportunities to see a medieval castle, beautiful traditional gardens, ancient shrines, and the Miho no Matsubara, a scenic seashore lined with pine trees.
Our two days docked in KOBE, JAPAN, will give us opportunities to visit Kyoto, Nada, and Osaka! In Kyoto, walk under the beautiful red torii tunnel gates of Fushimi Inari-Taisha Temple, stroll through the Zen Hojo Garden, and visit the Golden Pavilion to see the still pond in the garden - one of the most stunning scenes you'll ever see! Visit the Osaka Castle and learn about its rich history. Japan's first permanent capital was established in the year 710, which is now known as Nara, easily accessible from the Kobe port. The architecture in Nara is incredible to see and Nara is home to the great image of Buddha, which is inside the temple of Todaiji.
From the KAGOSHIMA, JAPAN, port, journey back in time by visiting the well-preserved samurai houses, admire the lovely landscape with its stunning walls, gardens and hedges and visit the Chiran Peace Memorial Museum which honors the memory of Kamikaze pilots. You can even visit a brewery for a sake tasting. Then take some time to relax at one of Japan's most celebrated hot springs for a sand bath experience. Geothermal geysers and springs heat the sand. Wear a kimono and then lie back as you are covered in the warm sand up to your neck. The sand bath is known for its promotion of health and circulation. Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul as you bask in the luxuriously warm sand!
On our visit to SHANGHAI, CHINA, discover the most famous Buddhist temple in China: the Jade Buddha Temple, home to important Buddhist artifacts including a six foot high jade Buddha statue! Shanghai is laden with exquisite architecture as well as gardens, temples, and gardens. Nearby, in the ancient town of Zhujiajiao, also known as the Venice of China, we can see the 36 distinctive and old bridges which were built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The old town is thoroughly connected by these 36 delicate spans in different shapes and styles, from wooden to stone to marble.