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The Sumptuous Soul of America
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The Sumptuous Soul of America
Operated by: Luxury Gold
13 Days from $7,875 per person
BOOK & TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
BOOK & TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
To ensure the wellbeing of our guests, we require all guests traveling with us through December 31, 2022, to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. With flexible changes up to 60 days prior to departure plus industry leading wellbeing protocols, book and travel in confidence.
We require all guests traveling with us through December 31, 2022, to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19
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Day 1
Chicago, the Jewel of the Midwest.
Welcome to Chicago. Upon arrival, you will be met and taken to your exclusive retreat near The Magnificent Mile. At 18:00, join your Travelling Concierge for a scrumptious Welcome Dinner with wine at your hotel.
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Day 2
Scaling Chicago.
Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to visit Wrigley Field with a Local Expert to explore the history of the Chicago Cubs. Alternatively, visit the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for soaring views of the Windy City.
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Day 3
Chicago to Louisville.
Today, you'll leave the skyscrapers of Chicago behind and head to Louisville. Along the way, you'll stop for a bite in Indianapolis, the state capital and "The Crossroads of America". A fun and artsy town built on bourbon and American sport icons, Louisville is home to the Kentucky Derby, and was the birthplace of Muhammad Ali and the Louisville Slugger baseball bat. The city has evolved into one of the South's most foodie-centric cities, with mouth-watering eateries and North America's best bourbon Old Fashioned cocktail.
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Day 4
Spirit of Kentucky.
Take a private tour of a Kentucky Thoroughbred retirement farm this morning set in the state's beautiful rolling farmlands. Stops along the way include past Derby-winning horses. Later, you'll visit a local bourbon distillery, where you'll learn the secrets of bourbon and whit it can only be produced in this region. Join a master distiller for a private tour and tasting seminar, complete with a farm-to-table dinner.
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Day 5
Highway to Nashville.
The fun continues with a guided historic walking tour of Churchill Downs to learn about the history of the Kentucky Derby, followed by a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Once here you'll gain an insider's perspective during a private visit with a retired Kentucky Derby jockey. Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to visit the Corvette Museum, to discover the history of America's favourite sports car. Alternatively, visit the Historic RailPark and Train Museum, which tells the stories behind the transportation evolution in Kentucky. Later, travel onwards to Nashville, America's capital of country music.
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Day 6
Nashville's Musical History.
Enjoy a tour of historic Studio B with a professional sound engineer in a 30-minute, choir-style recording session. You'll be able to take home a copy of the recording as a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Head on to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, full of memorabilia from stars such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Garth Brooks. Once there, you'll join your Local Expert, an esteemed singer/songwriter, who will tell you the stories behind the biggest hits sung by well-known country music stars. End your day with a trip to the Grand Ole Opry or "country's most famous stage", for a live performance. If you are traveling on a Chairman's Collection departure, you will meet one of two music legends, either Country Hall of Fame musician Charlie McCoy or Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Brenda Lee, for a special introduction to the city's impressive music history.
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Day 7
Memphis and Graceland Relaxed Start
Travel from the home of country music to the birthplace of Blues, Soul and Rock ��n’ roll, Memphis. This afternoon visit Graceland. See the effect that Elvis and his music had on popular American culture as you marvel at the mansion set on 13.8 acres of land.
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Day 8
The Best of Memphis.
Learn about Memphis' history and culture through music. Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to visit Sun Studio, "The Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll," as you hear intimate stories of American soul legends B.B. King, Elvis, and Johnny Cash and walk through the very rooms that they first recorded in. Alternatively, you can stop by the Stax Museum of American Soul, a former studio which pays special tribute to soul music, through interactive exhibits, films, and vintage recording equipment. Later, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the National Civil Rights Museum for an immersive journey through the history of civil rights in America, from the 17th century to the present day.
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Day 9
Mississippi Mystique in Natchez.
Depart for Natchez, founded by the French in 1716 when it became home to a flowering colonial culture. Many historic homes dot the landscapes of the American South and your visit offers the opportunity to learn about their past. At your charming luxury country mansion inn, whet your palate during a mixology class and learn the 'science' behind the signature drink of the South, the Mint Julep. Then enjoy a delectable three-course Highlight Dinner with wine, in the stunning main house.
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Day 10
Frogmore, Houmas House, and New Orleans.
Today offers another encounter with American history at Frogmore Plantation and Gins. As you explore the property, from the original gin through to modern day you'll learn about the history of slavery in the south. Next, visit Houmas House Plantation and Gardens to understand daily life on this sugarcane plantation and get a deeper understanding of what life what like in the era of wealthy Sugar Barons. Learn about Creole Cuisine during a cooking demonstration. Afterwards, indulge in your Highlight Dinner.
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Day 11
New Orleans Sightseeing. Relaxed Start
Join a Local Expert for a tour of the city as you learn about its rich history steeped in the myriad of cultures that have found a new home here. See Jackson Square and the Treme neighbourhood before exploring City Park. Take in this picturesque scene and admire the oak trees with a warm café au lait in hand. Next, visit one of the city's famous above ground cemeteries and learn about the uniquely joyful perspective on life and death.Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to embark on a Creole and Cajun food tour of New Orleans while learning about the city's unique blend of worldly influences. Alternatively, you can mingle over a traditional Jazz Brunch, where you'll take in the lively musical scene.
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Day 12
Exploring the Big Easy. Relaxed Start
Start the day with a bayou expert on a unique and immersive eco-excursion for an insider’s perspective of the Great Mississippi River and how it has shaped the rich tapestry of land, people and cultures of this region. Meet the local fishermen and sample some of the fresh seafood.This evening, toast to lifelong memories during a Celebration Dinner with wine at the famous New Orleans restaurant, Arnaud's, with lively jazz as your backdrop.
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Day 13
Depart New Orleans.
Bid 'au revoir' to the Big Easy in the morning. A complimentary transfer is provided to Louis Armstrong Airport or choose to extend your stay.
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Price Includes
Additional Included Highlights
- You will be escorted by one of our fine Travelling Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- Complimentary, airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Chicago: Board a 90-minute architectural river cruise and discover how the Great Fire of 1871 paved the way for the birth of the skyscraper.
- Chicago: Visit Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Clubs and a National Historic Landmark.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Louisville: Uncover the history tied to the evolution of transportation in Kentucky as you visit the historic RailPark and Train Museum in Bowling Green.
- Louisville: Visit the National Corvette Museum and learn about the Chevrolet Corvette, a classic American sports car that has been in production since 1953.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Memphis: Visit the Stax Museum and learn the story of American Soul music, Stax Records and the Memphis sound.
- Memphis: Explore Sun Studios where Elvis got his start along with many of the greats. Stand in the very same spot that Elvis first recorded. Sun Studio is known as "The Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll." It is the discovery location of musical legends and genres of the 50's from B.B. King and Elvis Presley to Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis; from Blues and Gospel to Country and Rock 'n' Roll.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- New Orleans: Get a taste of the city to learn what Cajun and Creole food is all about- you can taste Cajun and Creole originals like king cake, crawfish etouffee, cracklin' and a boil.
- New Orleans: Enjoy a tasty selection of creole cuisine such as shrimp etouffee, jambalaya, and freshly baked desserts.
Well-being
- : Your Well-Being Director takes a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met. On tours fewer than 15 guests, your Traveling Concierge will act as your Well-Being Director.
- : Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travelling Concierge's, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
- : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
- : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Exceptional Dining
- Chicago: Join your Travelling Concierge at your hotel for a scrumptious Welcome Dinner at a Gastropub restaurant featuring Midwest-focused flavours.
- Natchez: Learn to make the signature drink of the South, the Mint Julep, before an elegant, three-course Southern dinner at the Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens.
- New Orleans: Discover the flair of Creole cuisine during a cooking demonstration and special Highlight Dinner.
- New Orleans: Get a taste of the city to learn what Cajun and Creole food is all about- you can taste Cajun and Creole originals like king cake, crawfish etouffee, cracklin' and a boil.
- New Orleans: Enjoy a tasty selection of creole cuisine such as shrimp etouffee, jambalaya, and freshly baked desserts.
- New Orleans: Gather at the famous Arnaud's for a Celebration Dinner featuring live jazz. Classic Creole cuisine and exceptional service are just steps away from Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter, and within the beautifully restored, turn of the century dining rooms, Arnaud’s remains true to its over 100-year tradition. Today, the restaurant is operated by the fourth generation of owners dedicated to carrying on the spirit of the original Arnaud Cazenave.
- Dining Summary: 12 Breakfast (B), 7 Dinner with Wine (DW), and 1 Lunch (L)
Journey Highlights
- Chicago: Board a 90-minute architectural river cruise and discover how the Great Fire of 1871 paved the way for the birth of the skyscraper.
- Chicago: Visit Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Clubs and a National Historic Landmark.
- Louisville: Take a private tour of a Kentucky Thoroughbred retirement farm set in the beautiful rolling Kentucky farmlands and see past Derby-winning horses.
- Louisville: Embark on a guided historic walking tour of Churchill Downs to learn about the history of the Kentucky Derby, followed by a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Here, you will gain an insider's perspective when you meet with a retired Kentucky Derby Jockey.
- Louisville: Visit the National Corvette Museum and learn about the Chevrolet Corvette, a classic American sports car that has been in production since 1953.
- Nashville: Join the ranks of superstar musicians Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton as you record a take-home song at legendary Studio B.
- Memphis: Visit Graceland, as much as 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.
- Memphis: Visit the Stax Museum and learn the story of American Soul music, Stax Records and the Memphis sound.
- Memphis: Explore Sun Studios where Elvis got his start along with many of the greats. Stand in the very same spot that Elvis first recorded. Sun Studio is known as "The Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll." It is the discovery location of musical legends and genres of the 50's from B.B. King and Elvis Presley to Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis; from Blues and Gospel to Country and Rock 'n' Roll.
- Memphis: Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and visit the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, and embark on a poignant and important tour through five centuries of the Civil Rights Movement. Pay your respects to the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and learn about his impact on the world.
- New Orleans: Visit Houmas House, the crown jewel of Louisiana's River Road, previously voted best Louisiana attraction. Tour the estate and gardens while you learn about daily life on this former sugarcane plantation. Gain a deeper understanding of the architecture, heritage and history surrounding this 1800's mansion.
- New Orleans: Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you embark on a unique, immersive, insider's perspective tour of the Great Mississippi River and how it shaped a richly important tapestry of land, people and cultures through a memorable eco excursion. You'll get to explore places, cultures and history that visitors rarely get to experience. Meet local fishermen and sample fresh seafood, "Gulf to Table".
VIP Experiences
- Louisville: Enjoy a private tour and tasting seminar at a Bourbon Distillery on the Distillery Trail, home of award-winning Kentucky straight bourbon brands. Finish your tasting with a meal.
- Nashville: Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and get a private, behind-the-scenes look at the songwriting process with a local songwriter and singer.
Your Way
- Louisville: Uncover the history tied to the evolution of transportation in Kentucky as you visit the historic RailPark and Train Museum in Bowling Green.
Chairman's Collection
- Nashville: What better way to discover Music City than alongside one of the stars who contributed to its legacy? Charlie McCoy, a Country Music Hall of Fame musician and Grammy-winning artist, has collaborated with famous musicians like Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Loretta Lynn. Brenda Lee is the recipient of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to music, being the top-charting solo female vocalist of the 1960s. Only as a Luxury Gold guest will you meet one of these legendary locals during your time in Nashville.
Dates & Prices
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
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