Italy
featuring the Oberammergau Passion Play
Presented By: DATCU Travel Club

Day 1: Monday, June 28, 2010 Overnight Flight
Welcome to Italy, a land rich in history, culture, art and romance. Your journey begins with an overnight flight to Rome, "The Eternal City."

Day 2: Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Rome, Italy - Tour Begins
You arrive in Rome today. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a special welcome dinner at a popular local restaurant featuring regional delicacies and fine Italian wines. (D)

Day 3: Wednesday, June 30, 2010 Rome - Vatican City - Papal Audience
This morning, visit Vatican City to attend the weekly papal audience* and receive the blessing given by His Holiness, Benedict XVI. Later, visit St. Peter’s Basilica, built on the site where St. Peter was martyred. Known as the grandest of the world’s churches, St. Peter’s is unsurpassed in beauty. In the Vatican Museum* you will view such historical treasures as the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s restored mural of the Last Judgment. (B)

Day 4: Thursday, July 01, 2010 Rome
This morning enjoy a locally guided panoramic tour of Rome featuring the impressive Piazza Venezia, the Circus Maximus, the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine and the famous Trevi Fountain. This afternoon, explore Rome on your own - perhaps visit the legendary Spanish Steps or shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. (B)

Day 5: Friday, July 02, 2010 Rome - Assisi - Perugia
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Today you are off to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis. Take a guided walking tour of the old city, including the Basilica of St. Francis. Then, travel to medieval Perugia, the historic capital of Umbria. Here you will behold one of the grandest squares in Italy, the Piazza IV Novembre, and delight in the medieval palaces and ornate cathedrals. (B, D)

Day 6: Saturday, July 03, 2010 Perugia - Siena - Florence
A scenic journey through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills brings you to the mystical city of Siena. You will be delighted by its narrow Gothic streets, magnificent palaces and historic Piazza del Campo. Upon arrival in Florence, visit a family-owned leather shop and learn the traditional Italian techniques of leather making. (B, D)

Day 7: Sunday, July 04, 2010 Florence
In Florence, the “Cradle of Italian Renaissance,” visit the world-famous Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s incredible Statue of David. During your cultural tour of Florence, you'll also view the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Church of Santa Croce, burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy this fascinating city on your own. (B)

Day 8: Monday, July 05, 2010 Florence - Padua - Venice
Today you journey through central Italy to the medieval city of Padua to view the impressive six-domed Saints Basilica, dedicated to St. Anthony. Then it is on to the canal-laden city of Venice. This enchanting city was built on 117 tiny islands and is characterized by a latticework of 150 canals and 400 bridges. (B, D)

Day 9: Tuesday, July 06, 2010 Venice - Murano Island - Venice
Your day begins with a boat trip* (weather permitting) to Murano Island for an up-close glass making demonstration. Next, return to Venice and visit charming St. Mark’s Square, the lively hub of the city's activity and events. A local expert will guide you on a walking tour of the area featuring St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Clock Tower with its famous Moors. (B)

Day 10: Wednesday, July 07, 2010 Venice - Trento - Oberammergau, Germany
Today you make the scenic journey to the Bavarian village of Oberammergau. En route, travel through the majestic Dolomites with a special stop made in the Alpine town of Trento. During your visit, stroll the quaint streets and admire the artistic heritage of this Renaissance-inspired center. (B, D)

Day 11: Thursday, July 08, 2010 Oberammergau - Passion Play
The morning is at leisure for you to explore this lovely village. This afternoon, witness a performance of the Passion Play. The original performance dates back to 1634. During the Thirty Year War, the village of Oberammergau was spared the Black Plague and for this reason, the villagers vowed that every ten years they would give a play to honor the life of Christ. The performers are native Oberammergauers. To lend authenticity to the performance, the cast start to grow their hair and beards more than a year in advance. Also, the intricate costumes are made locally by the villagers. During the break in the performance, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of a memorable trip. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Friday, July 09, 2010 Oberammergau - Tour Ends
(B)




June 28 - July 9, 2010
12 Days • 17 Meals
10 Breakfasts • 1 Lunches • 6 Dinners
Highlights: Rome, Papal Audience*, St. Peter’s Basilica, Colosseum, Assisi, Perugia, Siena, Florence, Padua, Venice, Murano Island, Trento, Oberammergau, Passion Play
Rates Per Person
Double: $5959, Single: $7259
*Included in Price: Round Trip Air from Dallas Ft Worth Intl, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges of $390 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers.
*Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $350 per person.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Day 2 - 4 Rome Hotel, Rome
Day 5 Sangallo Palace Hotel or Hotel Gio, Perugia
Day 6 - 7 Hotel Mediterraneo, Florence
Day 8 - 9 Venice Hotel, Venice
Day 10 - 11 Oberammergau or Garmisch- Partenkirchen, Oberammergau
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Essential Experiences
  • In Rome, enjoy a fun-filled evening of fine Italian wine, cuisine and traditional music.
  • Behold the unsurpassed beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
  • Discover Siena’s narrow Gothic streets, magnificent palaces and historic Piazza del Campo.
  • A tour of Florence showcases the cultural treasures of the “Cradle of the Italian Renaissance.”
  • Enjoy the canals and charm of Venice, including a boat ride to the famous Murano Island.
For more information call
 James McClanahan
DATCU Travel Club
(940) 565-9111
Included Meals Key
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

AVAILABLE OPTIONS:
Florence
Tuscan Feast • $75.00
This evening, set off on a scenic drive to nearby Galluzzo, a historic town famous for its Carthusian monastery which rests upon one of the beautiful hills surrounding Florence. Prior to dinner, enjoy an after-hours visit to this 14th century monastery – La Certosa. Revel in the beauty that lurks inside and experience the monastery’s magnificence as you learn about monastic daily life. Then, your evening of fun continues at one of the area’s most popular dining establishments! Experience an authentic and traditional dinner – served family-style! Savor local wines and Tuscan food and enjoy the entertainment. It’s a memorable – truly Italian – evening out that you won’t want to miss!
Rome
Rome by Night • $75.00
“Dine with the Tenors” at a very popular Roman restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a hearty, traditional, four-course menu complete with wine. As you enjoy the delicious tastes of Italy, talented performers serenade you with favorite arias from best-loved operas. This lively, fun-filled evening will be an unforgettable part of your visit to Rome and an engaging immersion into Italian culture. After dinner, embark on the enchanting Rome by Night tour, seeing the famous landmarks of the “Eternal City” illuminated against the night sky. See the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Victor Emmanuel Monument and many other highlights. Remember your evening of Italian romance and charm with a souvenir opera CD – one per couple and one for singles.
Venice
Dinner on the Grand Canal • $75.00
Dine on fabulous Italian cuisine while the drama and grandeur of the Grand Canal parades before you. Spend your free night in Venice dining at a very popular Venetian restaurant located right on the Grand Canal. Your Tour Manager will lead you on a short stroll to the restaurant where the tranquil ambiance, fine service and delicious meal complete with mineral water, coffee and fine Italian wine make this evening truly memorable.
Venetian Serenaded Gondola Cruise • $75.00
Experience the romance that can only be found in Venice – La Serenìssima – while traveling on its famous waterways, when you partake in one of Venice’s most famous pastimes – a gondola cruise. Take a pleasant stroll toward the Grand Canal to board your gondola. As you relax in your elegant watercraft, your gondolier navigates the Grand Canal as well as smaller side canals. Sip on a glass of local Prosecco as you listen to the melodic voice serenading you in true Italian style – just like in those romantic Italian movies!
CANCELLATION WAIVER:

Worry-Free Cancelation
Our industry-leading cancellation waiver offers travelers a full cash refund for the price of the tour, right up to the day prior to departure, minus the small cost of the waiver. Travel worry-free knowing if anything changes, you're protected.

Plus, you're covered on tour.
Our cancellation waiver and insurance plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.

Cancellation Waiver and Insurance is just $350 per person.

Click here for complete details.

TRAVEL TIPS:
Italy
Listed below is important information to assist you in preparing for your upcoming trip. This information provided will help you have a more enjoyable experience while you are on your tour.
Clothing & Packing Tips
Bring a camera, memory cards and batteries and be sure to bring enough photography supplies for your entire trip. If you have a video camera, bring an extra battery, plus proper recharging equipment. Due to security screening, we recommend storing your equipment in your carry-on luggage. Bring a travel alarm clock, travel sewing kit and an alcohol based gel hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible. Pack items that may leak in plastic bags. Do not pack any articles of value in your checked luggage. In many cases, laundry services (not self-service) are available to you at the hotel, for an additional charge. As a precaution, we suggest that you divide the contents of your suitcase with your traveling companion. Avoid over packing and leave room for souvenirs that you plan to take back home. You may opt to pack wash cloths as they are not readily available in international hotels.
Dress throughout Italy and Germany is casual. Comfortable walking shoes are required as there is a good amount of walking on cobblestone and uphill streets and museums. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted when visiting Churches throughout Italy. It is recommended to pack layers of clothing that may be added or removed as the temperature changes. The Fall and early Spring months can typically be rainy; therefore, rain gear is suggested (such as a raincoat, umbrella and waterproof shoes). For special evenings, a dress or pantsuit for the ladies and a jacket and tie for the gentlemen are recommended. Packing several washcloths for your tour is recommended. Hotel properties do not always offer them.
Electricity
An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage you may still need an adaptor for the plug. Voltage for Europe is 220.
Helpful Hints
Contact your travel clinic or personal physician for specific details and inoculations that may be required or recommended to participate on this tour. Fly in comfortable clothing and shoes. Since temperatures can vary when flying, it is advisable to bring a sweater on flights. Drink plenty of water and juice on the long-haul segments of your trip. You may want to avoid alcoholic beverages during the flight, as they are dehydrating. Exercise on board the aircraft. Bring books, magazines and snacks for your flight(s). Bring a copy of your passport/identification and pack it separately from the original. Leave a copy of your tour itinerary at home with your emergency contact as well as a copy of your passport.
Miscellaneous
If you are considering using your cell phone while traveling internationally, you should check with your cell provider concerning their access and charges for overseas calls, texting and emailing for the specific destination you are traveling to.
Reading List
Interested in reading about your destination before you depart? Collette has pre-selected travel guides, novels and books on history, nature and art to help enhance your total vacation experience. You can access the complete list by typing the following into your web browser. Select the region of the world to find your tour: http://www.collettevacations.com/travel-books.cfm
Time Zone
Italy and Germany are 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.