Bavaria
with Oberammergau's Passion Play
Presented By: Thomas Travel

Day 1: Saturday, July 17, 2010 Overnight Flight
Embark on a journey through quaint villages, bustling cities and an enchanting Alpine backdrop when you explore Bavaria and experience Oberammergau’s historic Passion Play.

Day 2: Sunday, July 18, 2010 Munich, Germany - Tour Begins
Your adventure begins in the Bavarian capital of Munich – idyllically situated at the foot of the Alps and your home for the next five nights. Meet your fellow travelers and toast the beginning of an unforgettable tour during your welcome dinner. (D)

Day 3: Monday, July 19, 2010 Munich
This morning set off for a locally guided panoramic tour of Munich showcasing its unique blend of folkloric ambience and modern sophistication. Visit Olympic Park, site of the 1972 Olympic games and a stunning example of modern architecture. Next, marvel at the Baroque-influenced architecture of the city as you visit the Marienplatz – the heart of Munich and the most scenic square of the old town. Here, behold the Rathaus-Glockenspiel – an ornate clock comprised of 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures that depict medieval jousting and dancing – reflecting different pieces of Bavaria’s history. 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. The remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Munich’s lovely historic center, relax or discover more of the city’s beauty on your own. (B)

Day 4: Tuesday, July 20, 2010 Munich - Innsbruck, Austria - Munich
This morning, travel to the enchanting “capital of the Alps” – Innsbruck. Here, modern architecture stands beside 800-year-old buildings and the Austrian Alps create a post-card perfect backdrop. Join a local guide for a panoramic tour of this Imperial city featuring Maria Theresienstrasse; the famous Golden Roof, built in 1500 by Archduke Friedrich IV; and the Hofburg, once the seat of Habsburg princes. The remainder of your day is at leisure to relax or further explore Innsbruck. (B)

Day 5: Wednesday, July 21, 2010 Munich
Enjoy a day at leisure to uncover more of Munich’s gems. Perhaps you will visit Peterskirche, its oldest church; Maximilianstrasse, a famous shopping avenue; or a beer garden. Your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions. (B)

Day 6: Thursday, July 22, 2010 Munich - Nuremberg - Munich
This morning, travel to the vibrant city of Nuremberg. During World War II, much of Nuremburg’s cityscape was destroyed. Today, find medieval structures alongside modern architecture reflecting Nuremberg’s post-war prosperity. Take in historical sights during a guided city tour. A local expert shares fascinating commentary as you explore the Rally Grounds, where the Nazi Party once held political rallies, and the Justice Palace, where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. The tour continues past romantic half-timbered houses in the castle quarter to the enchanting Imperial Castle, one of the most important Imperial palaces dating back to the Middle Ages. Explore the tapestry hung walls, paintings and furniture from the 15th and 16th centuries in the many residential and state rooms of the palace. Behold 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city and historic St. Sebald Church. (B, D)

Day 7: Friday, July 23, 2010 Munich - Oberammergau Region
Leave Munich behind as you head for the quaint Bavarian village of Oberammergau. This afternoon, experience the world-famous Passion Play – a powerful once-in-a-decade event. The original performance dates back to 1634 when the villagers of Oberammergau vowed to perform a play depicting the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ every ten years if God would spare its residents from the clutches of the Bubonic Plague. No one died after that and a legend was born. The Passion Play has become an epic event. The 41st production, once again by natives of Oberammergau, takes the world by storm. During a break in the performance, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of an unforgettable Alpine journey. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Saturday, July 24, 2010 Oberammergau Region - Tour Ends
(B)




July 17 - July 24, 2010
8 Days • 10 Meals
6 Breakfasts • 1 Lunches • 3 Dinners
Highlights: Munich, Glockenspiel, Innsbruck, Nuremberg, Rally Grounds, Justice Palace, Oberammergau, Passion Play
"Leisure Stays" are tours in which the itineraries are designed to allow for multiple-night stays in two or more cities. This allows you a more leisurely pace and more time to explore the destinations on your own.
Rates Per Person
Double: $1999, Single: $2399,
Triple: $1949
*Not Included in Price: Round Trip Air Fare, Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $250 per person, Hotel Transfers.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Day 2 - 6 Four Points by Sheraton Munich Central, Munich
Day 7 Oberammergau Region Hotel, Oberammergau Region
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Essential Experiences
  • During your visit to Nuremburg, explore the Rally Grounds where the Nazi Party once held political rallies.
  • Marvel at the amazing Glockenspiel during your tour of the Bavarian capital of Munich.
  • Experience the world-famous Passion Play in the beautiful village of Oberammergau.
For more information call
 Monica Marshall
Thomas Travel
(801) 266-2775
Included Meals Key
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

AVAILABLE OPTIONS:
Innsbruck
Spectacular Seefeld and Country Cottage Visit • $75.00
How better to spend a free day than visiting the romantic Alpine village of Seefeld. Beautifully situated at 3,600 feet above sea level, this charming Tyrolean town commands breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Known as one of the world's great ski resorts, Seefeld offers a relaxed atmosphere in an Alpine setting with miles of trails for walking, lakes, fine shopping, dining possibilities, and pure Alpine fresh air. After arriving by train, enjoy a glass of schnapps and a traditional horse and buggy ride before shopping in some of the quaint village stores. While at the small country home, learn how to make your own apple strudel and indulge in the chance to sample one of Austria’s famous sweets!
Munich
Musical City of Salzburg • $75.00
During your free day in Munich you may choose to participate in an optional tour to the amazing city of Salzburg. A city filled with beautiful gardens and wondrous architecture, Salzburg delights at every turn. Home to Mozart, dotted with sights from the beloved “Sound of Music” and with an Old City that is a Unesco World Heritage site, Salzburg truly has something for everyone. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely-paced walking tour featuring Mirabell Gardens (seen in the "Sound of Music"), the quaint Getreidegasse (site of Mozart’s birthplace), and many other highlights of this beautiful city. There will be plenty of free time for you to enjoy this beautiful city independently. Perhaps you’ll explore the city’s amazing historic area, experience Salzburg’s wonderful shops, or enjoy a coffee at one of the city’s many cafés. However you choose to spend the balance of your day, Salzburg is sure to delight!
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 $250 per person.

Click here for complete details.

TRAVEL TIPS:
Bavaria
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
Dress throughout the Alpine Countries and Bavaria is generally casual and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Travelers need to be prepared for a range of temperatures dependent on the altitude, so it is a good idea to wear layers of clothing that can be added or removed as the temperature changes. Please be sure to pack a sweater or light jacket. Remember to bring an umbrella and an extra pair of comfortable walking shoes.
Currency
Your personal bank card may work at local ATM machines in the destination you are traveling to and would dispense local currency. Please contact your bank to determine if this option is available, that your PIN number will be accepted, to inform them that you are traveling and to determine if any charges apply for each transaction. You may exchange your money at airports, banks, exchange bureaus, and at some hotels (although the exchange rate and fee is usually higher at hotels). In most cases, a commission charge will be assessed to exchange your money. Locations in the city usually offer a better currency exchange rate than airports. We recommend carrying only a few major credit cards. Credit card purchases often provide an extra guarantee on your purchase (check with your specific credit card company for details and fees). It is advisable to contact any credit card company you intend utilizing while on tour before you depart to notify them where you will be traveling, to avoid any rejection of services. If optional tours are made available to purchase, please note that credit cards must have an expiration date of greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.
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
Bring a camera, memory cards, film, 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. 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.
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 plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord & adapter plug to ensure proper function.
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
Shopping
One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been. In Austria, look for crystal figurines and jewelry, traditional clothing and Mozart chocolates. Germany is known for its cuckoo clocks, beer steins, wood carvings, nut crackers, smokers and Christmas ornaments. When traveling through Switzerland, keep an eye out for watches, music boxes, wood carvings, embroidered linens and lacework, Swiss Army knives and chocolate. Clothing, antiques, jewelry, wines, champagne and perfumes are all popular souvenirs of France. If you purchase DVDs or other electronic equipment abroad, check that it is compatible with your PC or other home equipment.
Time Zone
Germany and Austria are 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.