travel for women: the beautiful baltic capitals

8/8/2019 Travel for Women: The Beautiful Baltic Capitals

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TRAVEL FOR WOMEN

The Beautiful Baltic Capitals

Baroque Vilnius and Seaside Palanga, LithuaniaArt Nouveau Riga, LatviaMedieval Tallinn, Estonia

Sunday, July 17 Tuesday, July 26, 2011(Overnight flights depart on Saturday, July 16)

There is no better time to experience northern Europes best kept secret than mid-summer.The weather is ideal, with generally perfect temperatures for enjoying the many outdoor musicaland cultural activities that are celebrated all season long. Though having much in common,these three countries are distinguished by different language, history, ethnic origin, and cuisine.The capital cities of Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn, each with a unique character of cultural richnessand beauty, have earned all three the designation as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.

In the summer of 2011, the Baltic FolkloricFestival is scheduled to be hosted byLatvia, although celebrations will be heldthroughout the region from June throughAugust. Our tour dates were selected toshowcase a variation of cultural activities.Once the festivities are published in latespring, we may make some minor adjustments to the itinerary within our citystays to take advantage of concerts andspecial events as they become available.Experiencing the rich heritage of thisregion will be the highlight of the tour.

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Exciting Women INspiring / Women INspired

Our tour will include several interesting WIN / WIN gatherings with local women who have aninspiring story to share. Such opportunities never fail to add a unique dimension to the travelexperience, and profoundly enhance our cultural appreciation for one another. We sometimesmeet in combination with the days touring, or perhaps over dinner, depending on schedules.Our WIN / WIN events are not only inspiring to all, but great fun, and will surely be a highlight of the tour..

Day-By-Day

Day 1 Sunday, July 17, 2011

Arrive VilniusAirport Greeting and Transfer to HotelCheck-in and RelaxWelcome Reception at Hotel

We begin in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, avibrant city that is within a few miles of thegeographical center of Europe. Cobbled streetsand stunning architecture, together with churchdomes and spires filling the skyline, makeVilnius incredibly picturesque. A great walkingtown, Vilnius offers a rich assortment of museums, monuments, and endless culturalentertainment. Its historical center, Old Town,is one of the largest in Eastern Europe withunique architectural features and more than1500 buildings dating back centuries.

We will schedule one group airport transfer inVilnius based on the majority of flight arrival times which is usually in the early afternoon. (Thetransfer time will revert to the group flight time if we have a minimum of 10 travelers TBD). For those arriving at other times, a private transfer can be arranged for about 20 Euros. Once youcollect your luggage, you will be met and swiftly transferred the short 7 km distance to Old Townwhere our boutique hotel, the four-star Artis Hotel is centrally located in a restored 19th centurybuilding. Guest rooms are charming, with modern amenities such as air conditioning, satelliteTV, telephone, internet, mini bar, safe, and hair dryer in the bathroom. In the mornings, guestshave complimentary access to the spa and fitness center which even has a small swimmingpool.

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For those who arrive by late afternoon, we will lead an informal orientation stroll along PiliesStreet to soak up the appealing atmosphere of Old Town Vilnius. Then at about 5:00 pm, wellmeet just off the hotel lobby for a welcome reception with wine and heavy hors dhoeuvres alighter option to dinner after a long day of travel. Enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow travelerswhile your tour leader reviews the highlights of the coming days.

Day 2 Monday, July 18, 2011 Vilnius

Breakfast at the HotelMorning Sightseeing Tour Afternoon and Lunch at LeisureDinner in Old Town

Today you will learn why Vilnius is the only capital in Europe situated on the boundary of twoancient civilizations, Latin and Byzantine. From our prime location in Old Town, we will visitCathedral Square, the heart of the city since the Middle Ages. Well pass by the majesticCathedral (now a Basilica) and graceful Bell Tower. Rising above the square is a symbol of thecity, the Castle Tower of the Grand Duke Gediminas, who founded Vilnius in the 14 th century.Well also see the tiny Church of St. Anne, a masterpiece of late gothic architecture and themost impressive landmark in Old Town. Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte was so takenwith its beauty that he wanted to take it back to Paris in the palm of his hand.

Representing the beautiful Renaissance heritage of the city is the 16 th century Gate of Dawnand its revered Black Madonna painting. Other highlights of the morning are the PresidentialPalace, the Jewish Quarter, Town Hall Squareand Vilnius University (the oldest in the Baltics,established 1579, and containing one of only 4observatories in Europe). A visit to the Amber Gallery includes a fascinating explanation onLithuanias number one souvenir, Baltic gold,which was formed at the bottom of the seasome 50 million years ago. Amber is found inonly a few other locations in the world, but it isthe amber from the Baltic Sea that isconsidered the best. To this day, small piecescan still be found on the seacoast after a stormynight.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy a closer look at the attractions of the city. A walk along cobbledPilies Street presents an abundance of lovely outdoor cafes and shops. Your guide will be onhand to offer additional suggestions on what to see and do. In the evening, well regroup for dinner in Old Town, and perhaps a concert depending on the summer festival schedule.



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Day 3 Tuesday, July 19, 2011 Vilnius

Breakfast at the HotelMorning Tour of Trakai Castle with LunchSailboat Cruise on the LakeAfternoon and Evening at Leisure

The 12 th century town of Trakai, just 28 km west of Vilnius, was the original old capital and animportant military and political center. Located between hills, forests and lakes, Trakai is alsofamous for its picturesque landscape. We will sail on beautiful Lake Galve before touring the

restored and resplendent Trakai Castle. Thefurnishings are long gone, but it houses aMuseum of History and offers spectacular viewsfrom the upper floor. Afterwards, lunch will beserved at a caf overlooking the lake. When wereturn to Vilnius, the rest of the day is at leisure.Tonight you are free to savor the local flavors of Lithuanian cuisine. Old town overflows with

inviting restaurants and outdoor cafes, many with live music. Our guide will have lots of suggestions and will keep us advised of any festival activities as the schedule becomes known.

Day 4 Wednesday, July 20, 2011 Vilnius / Kaunas / Palanga

Breakfast at the Hotel and Check outTour of Pazaislis MonasterySightseeing in Kaunas with Lunch On OwnHotel Check-in at PalangaDinner near the Pier

Our drive to the coast today will cover about 200 miles on highways that are superbly

maintained by the government of Lithuania. Along the way, we will make several stops. Justbefore we reach the city of Kaunas, well tour a monastery with a remarkable history. Datingfrom the late 1600s, the complex has housed Napoleons army, a German hospital and Sovietoffices. It is now a convent with extraordinary art treasures that somehow survived decades of pillaging. We will see ornate wood carvings, pink marble columns, valuable frescoes and oilpaintings of Italian origin that are on display in the magnificent chapel. A short distance beyondis Kaunas, the second largest city and the prior capital of Lithuania in the early 20 th century.Driving along the central avenue of Liberty Street, well get an overview of its history beforestopping for lunch.

As soon as were back on the road, its only two and a half hours to the resort capital of Palanga, a small seaside town of immense charm. We will stay in the five-star Hotel Vanagupe ,

Each of the 98 guest rooms are elegantly furnished, complete with air-conditioning, telephone,minibar, safe, internet access, and the added luxury of heated bathroom floors and Austrianbathrobes made of the softest fabric. Recreation facilities include an outdoor pool, tennis courts,and a wellness center with gym, sauna and Jacuzzi. You can also rent a bike very popular inPalanga and follow one of the many excellent bicycle lanes through the pine forests and alongthe seashore. With fantastic beaches of soft white sand, the intoxicating scent of pine woods,and a vibrant night life, Palanga is the ideal spot for a few days of relaxation. Well enjoy dinner



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in an outdoor restaurant tonight that is beautifully landscaped with blossoming flowers, a fishpond and waterfalls. The summer sun sets late on the Baltic Sea well past 9 pm in July anda leisurely stroll after dinner to the Palanga Pier is not to be missed.

Day 5 Thursday, July 21, 2011 Palanga

Breakfast at the HotelMorning Tour of Tiskevicius PalaceVisit the Amber MuseumLunch at LeisureAfternoon Tour to Klaipeda and the Curonian SpitDolphin Show at the Sea MuseumFree Night for Dinner in Palanga

After a leisurely start to the morning, wellgather for a visit to nearby Tiskevicius Palace.An imposing 19 th century estate with botanicalgardens containing over 200 species of plants,the palace also houses the largest amber museum in Europe. Afterwards well return tothe hotel for a few hours of relaxation. In theafternoon well take a trip to the world famousCuronian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site.The spit is a unique and natural sand bar,running 98 km long, with the Baltic Sea on oneside and a freshwater lagoon on the other. Itsownership is shared between Lithuania andRussia.

On the way, well stop in Klaipeda, an ice-free seaport (due to the salt content in the sea) with afabulous history and traces of German culture in its old town. A seven minute ferry ride bringsus to the Spit and a short drive to the Sea Museum in time for the dolphin show. Take a ringsideseat for the 45 minute performance. Or for a unique perspective, remain on the lower level for aclose-up view of an amazingly synchronized underwater ballet. When we return to Palanga,enjoy a free evening for dinner and numerous options for outdoor musical entertainment.

Day 6 Friday, July 22, 2011 Palanga / Riga

Breakfast at the Hotel and Check-outVisit the Hill of CrossesLunch in a Local Restaurant

Afternoon Tour of Rundele Palace in LatviaHotel Check-inDinner in Old Town Riga

Todays travel to Latvia will cover about five hours of driving that we will break up with severalfascinating visits to local monuments. The first one, while still in Lithuania, is the Hill of Crosses.Thousands of straight and tilting crosses, small and large, have been erected here as far backas 1831, when participants of an anti-czarist uprising were buried here. Later, the site became a



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riveting symbol of spiritual resistance in Soviet times, and was honored by a cross from PopeJohn Paul II when he visited Lithuania in 1993. Today, visitors of all faiths stop here to purchasea small, carved wooden cross and inscribe a personal message before adding theirs to thecollection. The cross-carving, having old traditions in Lithuania, was added to the UNESCOWorld Heritage List as one of the most original spiritual crafts.

After lunch we cross the Latvian border. Within an hour we arrive at Rundale Palace, theluxurious 18 th century summer residence of royalty. The magnificent Baroque interior nowhouses a rich exposition of paintings and furnishings. Following a guided tour, there will besome time to visit the ornate gardens.

By 6 pm, we will arrive in Riga, the Paris of the Baltics. As the largest and most cosmopolitantown in the Baltics, Riga is also one of the largest centers of Art Nouveau architecture, rivalingboth Paris and Vienna. More than a third of the buildings in its Central District (over 800) arebuilt in this distinctive style. The city is simple gorgeous.

Our four-star boutique hotel, the Hotel Justus , is located in the historical center of Rigas OldTown, where narrow streets open up onto large, vibrant squares filled with outdoor cafes,wonderful aromas, festive laughter, and musical entertainment. The hotel was renovated in2009 so that each of the 45 cozy guest rooms are uniquely designed to embrace the charm of genuine interior brickwork. Each room has air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TV, telephone,high-speed internet access, minibar, safe, and a hair dryer in the bathroom. The public areasare decorated with lovely art objects, both antique and contemporary. The exterior architectureof the hotel makes it a favorite shooting location of Soviet film-makers.

After you are settled in your room, well meet for a brief orientation walk as we stroll through OldTown to dinner in a caf in one of the grand outdoor squares. With the Latvian folkloric festivalanticipated to be in full swing on this weekend, we are sure to enjoy the ambiance on our firstevening here. Old Riga is known to be as lively at midnight as it is during the day.

Day 7 Saturday, July 23, 2011 Riga

Breakfast at the HotelMorning Tour of RigaAfternoon and Lunch at LeisureFree Night for Dinner Optional Concert Performances

We start today with a close-up tour of the real treasure of this city the Art Nouveau district. Noother city in the world has preserved so many fine examples of buildings made in this style.Other highlights of the city that well see include the 13 th century Gothic Dome Cathedral, St.Peters Church an impressive feature of the Riga skyline since the Dark Ages, the House of Blackheads on Town Hall Square, Old Riga Synagogue, the Small and Big Guild Houses,Swedish Gate, and the Freedom Monument .

Latvians have a strong passion for music, especially opera. The first building renovated after theSoviets were ousted was the National Opera House, in an effort to recapture their nationalidentity. It was in Riga that the young Richard Wagner started composing his opera, The Flying



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Dutchman, which made him famous. And depending on the schedule of festivities while werehere, we will organize optional concerts based on interest, perhaps an opera or a classicalperformance in one of the acoustically-superb churches.

Day 8: Sunday, July 24, 2011 Riga / Tallinn

Breakfast at the Hotel and Check-outTour of Turaida Castle ComplexLunch in a Local RestaurantHotel Check-inDinner in Old Town Tallinn

In the morning we leave Riga and continuenorth, stopping very soon in Sigulada, a greenmountain area so picturesque that it is referredto as the Latvian Switzerland. Located here ona hill overlooking the River Gauja is the 13 thcentury red brick Turaida Castle, one of onlythree medieval castles in the area that survivestoday. Our tour of this historic complex themost visited site in Latvia includes a sculpturepark, an 18 th century Lutheran church that isone of oldest wooden churches in Latvia, and aStone Age exhibit with tools, weapons, jewelryand coins dating back to the original inhabitantsof the area. These, in addition to the castle tour,offer a fascinating glimpse into what life was likehere in the Middle Ages.

After a stop for lunch while still in the Latvian countryside, we will continue on to Estonia. This is

the longest day of our tour, with about 4.5 hours of afternoon driving along the deeply forestedmain highway. Arriving in the capital of Tallinn, you will be struck by the architectural diversity of styles, from the 13 th century through to today. One can still see the original perimeter wall with26 turreted defense towers that remain in superb condition. As the European Capital of Culturefor 2011, Tallinn will be rolling out the red carpet to welcome the world to Estonia. The city wasfirst recorded in 1154, making it the oldest capital in northern Europe. Its Old Town, where wewill be staying, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval towncenters in the world.

What is truly unique about the five-star Baltic Imperial Hotel is that it was built against thehistoric town wall in 1877, portions of which can be seen inside the hotel. Completely renovatedin 2003, our boutique hotel is just a short walk from Town Hall Square and the heart of Old

Town. Each of the 32 comfortable guest rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with satelliteTV, direct dial telephone, free Internet access, minibar and hair dryer in the bathroom. Thelower level has a sauna with Jacuzzi and fireplace for relaxation.

After check in, well stroll through the narrow streets of Old Town Tallinn to a dynamic townsquare near the hotel where dinner will be served in a cozy restaurant. The area is a joy toexplore, with charming cafes, shopping boutiques, art galleries and history galore.



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Day 9: Monday, July 25, 2011

Breakfast at HotelSightseeing Tour of Tallinn with LunchAfternoon at LeisureFarewell Dinner in Old Town

The symbol of Tallinn is its Town Hall, the only surviving gothic hall in all of northern Europe.Well pass it on our way to visit the countrys oldest church, the Lutheran Dome Cathedral,which was built in 1233 and showcases a superb Baroque altar. From a high point over the city,well get the full scenic view of Old Town and its turrets. Other highlights include the Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Church, the 18 th century Kadriorg Palace of Peter the Great and theSong Festival Grounds, site of the 1988 Singing Revolution. This historic gathering of Estoniansto courageously sing patriotic hymns led to the overthrow of Soviet rule. Following lunch in atypical Estonian caf, you will be free in Old Town for the rest of the afternoon. Later well meetfor a festive farewell dinner in a special location.

Day 10: Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Breakfast at Hotel and Check-outTransfer to the Airport for Flights Home

As most flights depart early in the morning, we will arrange a group transfer to the airport basedon the majority of the groups flight schedules. For those leaving later in the day, we will assist inpairing you up to share a taxi for the short ride to the airport.

Reminder: Our itinerary is subject to minor revisions in order to take advantage of BalticFolkloric Festival activities that wont be published until a few months before the tour.

We promise an exciting program!

ITINERARY 3 nights Vilnius, Lithuania 2 nights Palanga, Lithuania 2 nights Riga, Latvia 2 nights Tallinn, Estonia

TRAVEL OPTIONS

Price is based on Land Only.

Tour begins in Vilnius (Airport Code VNO)Tour ends in Tallinn (Airport Code TLL)

(Discounted Group Air Fare from NYC Available).



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PRICE

$2,499 per person, double occupancy$ 375 single supplement (limited)

All gratuities included! No extra tipping.

PAYMENTS

$600 Deposit due upon bookingBalance due 90 days out (4/15/11)

(Group Air will require additional deposit).

INCLUDES

Luxury & Boutique Accommodations In Old Town Vilnius at the Artis Hotel **** In Palanga Beach Resort at the Vanagupe Hotel ***** In Old Town Riga at the Justus Hotel **** In Old Town Tallinn Baltic Imperial Hotel *****

Superb Local Cuisine with Accent on Variety 9 Breakfasts at the Hotels (daily) 4 Lunches while Sightseeing 1 Welcome Reception with Wine and Heavy Hors dHoeuvres (Arrival Night) 5 Additional Dinners in Lovely Local Restaurants Wine with 2 Dinners

Private Ground Transportation Roundtrip Airport/Hotel Transfer per Group Flight Schedule Private Sightseeing in Modern, Air-Conditioned Motorcoach Baggage Handling at the Airport and the Hotels

Private, Guided Sightseeing ToursIn Vilnius:

Old Town Tour with Cathedral Square, Church of St. Anne, Gate of Dawn, PresidentalPalace, Jewish Quarter, Town Hall Square and Vilnius University

Tour of Amber Gallery Half-day Visit to Trakai with Castle Tour and Sailing on Lake Galve Visit to Pazaislis Monastery and Sightseeing along Liberty Street in Kaunas

In Palanga: Tour of Tiskevicius Palace, the Botanical Gardens and Amber Museum City Tour of Klaipeda and the Port Ferry to Curonian Spit with Dolphin Show at the Sea Museum



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En Route to Riga Vist to the Hill of Crosses Tour of Rundale Palace

In Riga: Old Town Tour with the Art Nouveau district, Dome Cathedral, St. Peters Church, the

House of Blackheads, Town Hall Square, Old Riga Synagogue, Guild Houses, SwedishGate and Freedom Monument

Visit to Turaida Castle in the Latvian Switzerland Region

In Tallinn: Old Town Tour with Town Hall, Dome Cathedral, Alexander Nevksy Russian Orthodox

Church, Kadriorg Palace of Peter the Great, and the Song Festival Grounds

Senior Staffing On-Site Professional, licensed guides throughout Escort from Away For Women

QUALITY & SAFETY ASSURANCE 24-hour emergency hotline $2 million tour operators professional liability insurance AFW is a proud member of the National Tour Association

NOT INCLUDED International Air Other Meals and Cocktails Personal Incidentals Optional Activities not included in Itinerary

Travel Insurance (highly recommended) Discretionary Tips to the Drivers and Local Tour Guides

DOCUMENTS

Valid Passport for Airport Security

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate, with Walking on Cobbled Streets and Uneven Surfaces



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CHANGES

Occasionally we may find it necessary to make minor adjustments to the itinerary due to suchunforeseen circumstances as weather, detours, construction, local traffic issues, etc., or thechance to take advantage of a new and better option. In the unlikely event of a change in hotel,one of equal or better class will be substituted to ensure the guaranteed quality of your travelexperience with Away For Women, LLC .

About Away For Women

Todays women want more from the travel experience than the usual sights, sounds and flavorsof a destination.

We look to connect with one another in new ways, to share in the delight of cultural discovery, tointeract with women globally, and to enjoy the exclusive rewards that touring with like-mindedwomen so beautifully delivers. We think of this enriched vision of travel as:

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travel for women: the beautiful baltic capitals

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