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Tastes & Sounds of the South

Operated By:
Tour Pace: Leisurely
Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana
Tour Style: First Class
10 Days from $2,475 per person

This trip gives you time to enjoy the South's music and food—from Elvis's Graceland to Creole cooking in New Orleans and grand antebellum hospitality in Natchez.

 

You'll enjoy Insider moments like... experiencing Southern hospitality at two period homes in one amazing evening. Joe Stone plays the piano for you as you sip a beverage, while Esther Carpenter – once listed among America's top 20 female chefs – invites you to dinner. It's getting to know the home of Rock n' Roll with our passionate Memphis expert, and learning about the city's role in the civil rights movement. And it's learning about ‘white gold' and the stark contrasts between life on a modern and pre-Civil War cotton plantation.

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  1. Welcome to Music City. Get settled at your hotel and enjoy some time on your own this afternoon to explore. At 6 p.m., gather at the hotel with your Travel Director and fellow traveling companions for a Welcome Reception.
    meal(s):WR
    hotel:Renaissance Nashville

  2. This morning, visit RCA's Studio B, one of the world's most successful recording studios where musicians such as Elvis Presley recorded their iconic sounds. Then, get a unique look into the life and music of Johnny Cash during a private performance and discussion with Johnny and June's son, John Carter Cash, a Cultural Insight. John (or a member of his family) entertains with his own original music, as well as a few numbers made famous by his legendary family. Spend some time exploring the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to see memorabilia from stars such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Garth Brooks. Later your choice of sightseeing offers a visit to the Johnny Cash Museum or, if you prefer, choose a tour of the Ryman Auditorium, awash in musical history, where country music's biggest stars play to cheering audiences today.
    meal(s):FB

  3. The day is yours to discover Nashville. Perhaps enjoy some live music at a honky tonk on Broadway street. This evening, head to the Grand Ole Opry, home to America's longest-running live radio program. Dinner is on your own to venture out and sample delicious Southern cuisine.
    meal(s):FB

  4. This morning, hit the highway to Memphis along the Mississippi Delta. Upon arrival in Memphis, meet a Beale Street musician, and Local Specialist, to learn about the rich musical heritage of the area. Visit the National Civil Rights Museum and see the hotel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was tragically assassinated before catching a glimpse of the late afternoon light on the Big Muddy. Enjoy the evening at leisure to explore or embark on a culinary adventure and cherish a meal at one of Memphis' many restaurants.
    meal(s):FB
    hotel:Sheraton Memphis Downtown

  5. Graceland is as much an object of pilgrimage as a museum dedicated to the late, great Elvis Presley. From the flowers and painted signs outside the gates, to the tear-streaked cheeks of fans inside, see the effect that Elvis and his music had on popular American culture. Marvel at Graceland's Jungle Room, walls full of gold and platinum records. Stroll the grounds and you just might find yourself humming “Blue Suede Shoes.” Visit Sun Studios where the first Rock 'n Roll single was recorded in 1951. This evening, embark on a your choice dining experience where you choose from a selection of local eateries for the evening's meal.
    meal(s):FB, YC

  6. This morning, get an in-depth look at the rich music history of Memphis with a tour of the legendary Rock 'n' Soul Museum before departing for Natchez. Founded by the French in 1716, Natchez was home to a flowering antebellum culture. Take in more of the nation's Southern history here and see the gracious homes overlooking the river. Tonight, enjoy an incredible evening highlighting Southern hospitality at a Be My Guest dinner. Explore the private residence of Joe Stone, whose home, built in the 1850s, contains a gallery collection of rare maps, a quaint billiards hall, and exquisite ornamental glasswork. Joe performs on his 1903 Steinway grand piano and delves into the meaning and inspiration behind each piece of music before you are treated to a glass of wine and are free to tour the expansive collection. Later, head over to the residence of Esther Carpenter, built in 1804 to explore the historic estate. Esther, a former Four Seasons chef, once named one of the Top 20 female chefs in America by USA Today, hosts a four-course dinner with wine featuring a true taste of the Deep South.
    meal(s):FB, BG
    hotel:The Grand

  7. After breakfast, stop at Frogmore Plantation and Gins to learn about the white gold of the Mississippi Delta. With your costumed hosts, Local Specialists, on a visit to a reconstructed 19th century cotton plantation, witness the modern-day operation that produces more than 900 bales each day. From there, travel to the countryside to marvel at Oak Alley Plantation. This classic antebellum home sits on the Mississippi River and amazes visitors with its quarter mile canopy of 300-year-old live oak trees. In this grand dame of Southern mansions, learn about the lives of the plantation owners. In the evening, visit the New Orleans School of Cooking to discover the flair of Creole cuisine watching a fun cooking demonstration before enjoying culinary creations during a Regional Meal.
    meal(s):FB, RM
    hotel:Astor Crowne Plaza

  8. This morning, join a Local Specialist who shares extensive knowledge of New Orleans' history as you travel throughout the city stopping at City Park and one of the famous above-ground cemeteries. This afternoon, enjoy some time on your own; grab a po' boy or some fresh beignets, stroll down Bourbon Street or hit the lively waterfront area.
    meal(s):FB

  9. Enjoy a leisurely day to explore this vibrant city. If you're feeling adventurous, head out to the bayou for an optional guided tour deep into the swamps. Look out for alligators or opt to stay downtown and stroll Magazine Street, visit Marie Laveau's Historic Voodoo Museum or catch a little jazz piano while cooling off and watching the world go by. This evening, join your Travel Director and traveling companions for a Farewell Dinner at the famed Court of Two Sisters.
    meal(s):FB, FD

  10. Extend your stay in New Orleans at the Astor Crowne Plaza or say ‘Au Revoir' to the Big Easy this morning with a transfer provided to New Orleans International Airport.
    meal(s):FB
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30 Day Refund Guarantee

We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.

  • Sightseeing with Local Experts Sightseeing with Local Experts
  • Professional Travel Director Professional Travel Director
  • VIP Access VIP Access
  • WIFI on Coach and in Hotels WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
  • Cultural Enrichment Cultural Enrichment
  • Expertly Selected Hotels Expertly Selected Hotels
  • Hotel Tips Hotel Tips
  • Most Meals Most Meals

Meal Summary

9 nights' accommodations, 9 full breakfasts, 4 dinners.

Included Highlights

Hidden Treasure

  • Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure.

Cultural Insight

  • Learn about the life and iconic music of Johnny Cash with a member of his family.

Be My Guest

  • Dine in true Southern style featuring two beautiful private homes in Natchez.

Local Specialist

  • For sightseeing in Memphis, the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, on a reconstructed cotton plantation and in New Orleans.

Sightseeing Highlights

  • City tour in Memphis and New Orleans
  • Orientation of Nashville
  • Visit Graceland, Oak Alley Plantation, Frogmore Plantation, Rock 'n' Soul Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame
Definite Departure
Depart Date Return Date Price Discount Availability Price
13 Sep 17 22 Sep 17 checkmark $2,695pp Call 1-877-622-9109
21 Sep 17 30 Sep 17 checkmark $2,695pp Request Quote Book Now
27 Sep 17 6 Oct 17 checkmark $2,695pp Request Quote Book Now
4 Oct 17 13 Oct 17 checkmark $2,695pp Call 1-877-622-9109
18 Oct 17 27 Oct 17 checkmark $2,695pp Request Quote Book Now
1 Nov 17 10 Nov 17 $2,695pp Request Quote Book Now
21 Mar 18 30 Mar 18 checkmark $2,795$2,516pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
20 Apr 18 29 Apr 18 $2,995$2,696pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
9 May 18 18 May 18 $2,875$2,588pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
10 May 18 19 May 18 checkmark $2,875$2,588pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
17 May 18 26 May 18 $2,875$2,588pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
23 May 18 1 Jun 18 $2,875$2,588pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
30 May 18 8 Jun 18 checkmark $2,875$2,588pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
6 Jun 18 15 Jun 18 $2,875$2,588pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
5 Sep 18 14 Sep 18 $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Call 1-877-622-9109
12 Sep 18 21 Sep 18 $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
19 Sep 18 28 Sep 18 checkmark $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
26 Sep 18 5 Oct 18 $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
10 Oct 18 19 Oct 18 checkmark $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
17 Oct 18 26 Oct 18 $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
24 Oct 18 2 Nov 18 checkmark $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
7 Nov 18 16 Nov 18 $2,750$2,475pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
25 Feb 19 6 Mar 19 $3,175$2,858pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now
26 Feb 19 7 Mar 19 $3,175$2,858pp Early PaymentPay by Jan 11 Request Quote Book Now

Crossovers: These departures will operate per the 2016 brochure; hotels and inclusions may vary.

undefinedMardi Gras: These departures will include tickets to the Mardi Gras Parade and will not visit Grand Ole Opry.

undefinedJazz Festival: This departure will include tickets to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and will not visit Grand Ole Opry.

2018 dates: Subject to date, price and itinerary changes; final details will be confirmed.

Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.

Single Room Supplement: from $925.

Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $103 per person.

Early Payment Discount: Pay in full to save the amount listed above. For details, click here.

AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift!  Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.

Past Travelers: Save an additional 5% off the Land Only price of the vacation.

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  • We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.

  • At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity.  We recommend $4-5 per person/per day for your driver and $6-7 per person/per day for your Travel Director.  Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 dollars per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit.  A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.

  • Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.

  • You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions.  All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers.  In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group. 

    If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.

  • We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 48 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.

Reviews

Monday, November 7, 2016
Tastes & Sounds of the South
Service:
Vacation:
Service rating : Since the actual company leading the tour was Trafalgar, I cannot comment so much on Grand European Travel. Other travelers in our group had discounts that we were not aware of. (?) The pre-information provided by GET was good & received in a timely manner.
Vacation : 95% of the vacation was excellent, but there are always a few things that are not. i.e. the meal on the Natchez riverboat cruise was not good (the cruise & the band were good). The Trafalgar tour guide was very fun & knowledgeable. A fun surprise bonus was the providing of local treats when we returned to the bus (Nashville Goo Goo Clusters, Memphis Moon Pies, etc.).
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your comments. There are several avenues in which to book your reservation and each agency offers different discounts to their customers. By booking with GET, you received a discount for being a member of AARP which the other guests on your trip did not receive. We're happy to see that you enjoyed yourself and we hope to have the opportunity to assist you in the future.

Grand European Travel
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Tastes & Sounds of the South
Service:
Vacation:
Service rating : Very helpful. Answered some pre trip questions thoroughly.
Vacation : Very nice trip. Good balance of activity and free time.
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Tastes & Sounds of the South
Service:
Vacation:
Service rating : Our tour guide was from Nashville, so had local insights!.
Vacation : We enjoyed our trip very much--especially enjoyed Nashville! We were there during "Marine Week", which was an added bonus!

Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.

Memphis

Graceland - Elvis Experience Upgrade

Adult Price: $24.00 | Child Price: $15.00

"True fans of The King may want to upgrade their homage to Graceland with the Elvis Experience Tour. In addition to the interactive, audio guided tour of Elvis’ estate and final resting place the Elvis Experience pass will provide you with access to the brand new Visitor Entertainment Complex, tours of Elvis’ two custom, private jets – the Lisa Marie and the Hound Dog II, Elvis’ Car Museum, the Elvis: the Entertainment Career Showcase Museum, and the Elvis Discovery Exhibits. "

Memphis

Graceland - VIP Tour Upgrade

Adult Price: $46.00 | Child Price: $68.00

"Die-hard fans will want to make the most of their visit to Graceland with this VIP Tour upgrade. In addition to all of the added features accessed with the Elvis Experience, VIP guests at Graceland will have access to an exclusive, VIP Exhibit, and front-of-the-line privileges for the Graceland Mansion tour which can be reused anytime during your stay. "

New Orleans

Steamboat Natchez Jazz Dinner Cruise

Adult Price: $81.00 | Child Price: $38.00

Enjoy your evening in New Orleans aboard the authentic Steamboat Natchez for a jazz dinner cruise on the Mississippi River. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner while taking in lovely views of downtown New Orleans all while enjoing the sounds of the Grammy nominated "Dukes of Dixieland". A full bar is also available for your pleasure.

New Orleans

Swamp & Bayou Tour With Transportation

Adult Price: $49.00 | Child Price: $24.00

After a short motorcoach ride across the Mississippi River, take a fascinating boat trip into the Louisiana swamps and bayous through part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park – Barataria Preserve. Native guides will reveal the mysteries of the swamps and bayous and you will discover how the seafood from these bountiful waters provides a wide assortment of delectable local dishes! Observe the nesting grounds of alligators, egrets, raccoons, nutria, and many species of snakes. Transportation included.

Nashville

Backstage at the Grand Ole Opry

Adult Price: $26.00 | Child Price: $26.00

There's nothing like a backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry House - it's a must-see for everyone in Music City! Walk in the footsteps of country music's superstars and get an exclusive look at what happens behind the scenes of the show that made country music famous! Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about the Opry and country music greats, past and present (from Minnie Pearl to Carrie Underwood, you might say), show you photos from the Opry's biggest moments in history and take you to the artist entrance - where legends, new artists, and superstars alike enter the Opry House on the night of an Opry show. You may even have the chance to step on stage and into the famed wooden circle as decades of artists have done.  Tours may also make a stop in Studio A, a live television studio and former home of HEE HAW.

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