Austrian Delight
with Oberammergau’s Passion Play
Presented By: MiraCosta Community Services

Day 1: Sunday, August 01, 2010 Overnight Flight
Welcome to Austria! Embrace the beauty of the Austrian Alps with quaint villages, pristine lakes and the fertile valleys of Innsbruck and Salzburg. Plus, enjoy two nights in the famous Bavarian village of Oberammergau, Germany, where you experience the historic Passion Play.

Day 2: Monday, August 02, 2010 Innsbruck, Austria - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in 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. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 3: Tuesday, August 03, 2010 Innsbruck
Join a local guide for a panoramic tour of the Imperial city of Innsbruck 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 4: Wednesday, August 04, 2010 Innsbruck - Bavaria, Germany - Innsbruck
Set off for the beautiful Bavarian Alps and find storybook settings comprised of charming villages and enchanting castles. Stop at the Wies Church in the foothills of the Alps. This pilgrimage church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built in the late 1740s to protect a famous statue of the Scourged Saviour which miraculously shed tears in 1738. Later, the sight of Neuschwanstein Castle brings fairytales to life during a picture stop. This 19th-century Bavarian castle, known for its famous neo-romantic architectural style, is the most photographed building in Germany and the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland. LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today your Tour Manager helps you discover the origin and history of German – the official language in Austria – and teaches you key words and phrases to help you communicate with the locals. (B)

Day 5: Thursday, August 05, 2010 Innsbruck - Salzburg
Travel through the picturesque Austrian countryside to the musical city of Salzburg. Beautiful gardens, old-world architecture and friendly locals paint Salzburg’s delightful canvas. Home to Mozart, dotted with sights from the beloved film The 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, famously featured during the song “Do Re Mi” from The Sound of Music; and Getreidegasse – a busy street in the Old Town section of Salzburg and birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter’s Restaurant, one of the city’s most popular dining establishments and the city’s oldest restaurant, first mentioned in a document dating back to 803. (B, D)

Day 6: Friday, August 06, 2010 Salzburg
Enjoy a day at leisure to independently explore this Baroque city on the banks of the Salzach River. Perhaps visit the city’s amazing historic area, browse its wonderful shops or enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere. Your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions. However you choose to spend your day, Salzburg is sure to delight! (B)

Day 7: Saturday, August 07, 2010 Salzburg - Munich, Germany - Oberammergau Region
This morning journey to the Bavarian capital of Munich – idyllically situated at the foot of the Alps. A locally guided panoramic tour of Munich showcases 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. Some leisure time allows you to explore Munich’s lovely historic center, visit one of its many museums or discover more of the city’s beauty on your own. Travel to the picturesque village of Oberammergau, your home for the next two nights. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief tour to acquaint you with the village. (B, D)

Day 8: Sunday, August 08, 2010 Oberammergau - Passion Play
Unwind during a morning at leisure. 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 journey. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Monday, August 09, 2010 Oberammergau Region - Tour Ends
(B)




August 01 - August 9, 2010
9 Days • 12 Meals
7 Breakfasts • 1 Lunches • 4 Dinners
Highlights: Innsbruck, Austrian Alps, Bavaria, Salzburg, Mirabell Gardens, St. Peter’s Restaurant, Munich, 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: $4199, Single: $4599,
Triple: $4149
*Included in Price: Round Trip Air from San Diego Intl Airport, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges of $330 (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 Hotel Grauer Bar, Innsbruck
Day 5 - 6 Castellani Parkhotel, Salzburg
Day 7 - 8 Oberammergau Region Hotel, Oberammergau Region
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Essential Experiences
  • Visit Munich and enjoy a panoramic tour featuring the Glockenspiel and Olympic Park.
  • Explore the Bavarian Alps, stopping at the famous Weis church.
  • Discover Salzburg’s historic past and charming old town.
  • A picture stop at Neuschwanstein Castle brings fairytales to life.
For more information call
 Linda Kurokawa
MiraCosta Community Services
(760) 795-6824
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!
Tyrolean Folklore Dinner Show • $75.00
Tonight enjoy an evening of Tyrolean hospitality. First enjoy a typical Austrian meal before the show begins. Once the show commences, you will fall in love with the culture and music that has made the region famous throughout the world. The evening’s program will include authentic folk music, Tyrolean dances and “shoe-slapping” as well as typical Tyrolean songs and “yodelling." This will be an evening to remember.
Salzburg
Sound of Music Dinner Show with Taxi • $75.00
A perfect way to spend an evening in Salzburg's old town is at the Sound of Music Dinner Show. You will be entertained by a cast of professional singers as they recreate the history of Baron Von Trapp's family. Incorporated in the evening will be most of the popular songs from the film, "The Sound of Music." Your dinner will feature a taste of traditional Austrian cuisine served in the grand ballroom of Stieglkeller, a lovely local restaurant.
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:
Austrian Delight
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 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.
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
Time Zone
Germany and Austria are 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.