text:
Treasures of Italy w/Papal Audience: Venice, Florence, Rome, Pompeii, Sorrento & Isle of Capri - 14 Days
The Daily Itinerary
Flight Departure
Today you will board your selected international transatlantic flight. On-board most transatlantic flights, you will be provided with your choice of selected drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), followed by your choice of a hot entree and a delicious dessert.
Prior to your arrival, most flights will serve breakfast with your choice of juice, coffee, tea, etc.
Note: Airfare rates and booking can and will be provided by SAVVY Affordable Tours® if you wish to have us book your flight itinerary. Airfare is additional and is not included in our land tour rate.
Your flight will arrive into Venice, the City of Canals, today.
For our guests who wish to add more time in Venice to overcome jet lag or just to enjoy Venice for an additional day and night, you may want to consider adding one pre-night hotel stay in Venice to this tour package - $155/person supplement.
Arrival Transfer Options:
Staying on the Mestre (mainland): your shared arrival transfer is included. Staying on San Marco island? Consider our Meet-and-Greet with Private Water Taxi Transfer ($148 per person) from the Venice Marco Polo airport (VCE) to your hotel in Venice on San Marco. (Includes standard gratuities)
After you have checked into your hotel, you are free to enjoy your day at leisure. Enjoy independently exploring the historic, picturesque streets, squares, alleys, and canals which make Venice one of the most photographed cities in all the world.
Welcome to Venice!
Dining Recommendations Tonight: We recommend Ristorante Da Tura in Mestre or Ristorante da Rafaelle on San Marco.
Our Hotels on San Marco, 2 Nights:
Hotel San Moise
Hotel Flora
Hotel do Pozzi
Hotel dell'Opera
Hotel Saturnia & International
Kette Hotel
Morning: Small-Group Guided Walking Tour of VENICE with entrance to Doge's Palace (included)
Afternoon: Optional Experience Available or Independent Free Time
Evening: Gondola Ride with Serenade (included)
Dinner: "Welcome to Venice Dinner" (included)
Morning: Small-Group Guided Walking Tour of VENICE with entrance to Doge's Palace (included)
You will awaken and enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Yes, breakfast is included each day throughout your SAVVY Affordable Tour.
Most of the local tours you will experience when traveling with SAVVY Affordable Tours® will provide you, and at no additional cost, an upgrade to an ideal small-group tour, which is limited to no more than 25 guests. Most other low-cost tour operators will put anywhere from 35 - 55 travelers on their local tours. SAVVY Affordable Tours® wants to assure our travelers that they will not feel like they are part of a large herd, but rather are a part of an enjoyable small group of a maximum of 25 guests on almost all of the tours provided in your tour package. Each time when this complimentary upgrade to a small-group tour of no more than 25 travelers is provided, it will be noted in the Day-by-Day itinerary.
All SAVVY Affordable Tours® provide our guests with a professional, expert English-speaking guide. In addition, headsets are usually provided as well to assure each of our guests that they will have access to the commentary provided by our outstanding guide. Rest assured --- our tour packages include the major highlights which you should see in each city we visit. In addition, on all SAVVY Affordable Tours, you will be provided, at no additional cost, with fast-track Skip-the-Line entrance tickets at all venues in Italy which offer this upgraded service. With our highly-sought-after, priority, fast-track Skip-the-Line tickets, guests on all our tours will avoid standing in lines which are often 2 - 3 hours at each venue in each Italian city.
Most of the major sites of Venice are conveniently located within walking distance of each other. Your morning guided walking tour of Venice with SAVVY Affordable Tours® is guaranteed to be in a small group, having no more than 25 guests. Just realize that when you book with SAVVY Affordable Tours®, you are selecting the tour operator which provides the best, low-cost, most-inclusive, great-value tours of Italy.
Your included walking tour of Venice will feature the awe-inspiring St. Mark's Basilica. Your expert English-speaking guide will provide you with special fast-track Skip-the-Line access so that you will easily enter the Basilica and not have to wait in a long line outside. Your professional guide will point out the details of the church which are important as well as explain the history behind the 1000-year-old stunning gold mosaics and the precious artifacts which are on display here. Yes, even the bones of St. Mark are contained here within St. Mark's Basilica.
Your guide will provide you with an audio headset for your entire morning tour which will help to ensure that you won't miss anything which is being shared by your professional guide. Having the headset also allows you to take photographs while listening to your outstanding guide's commentary at each site as well.
SAVVY Affordable Tours® will provide you with special inclusions in each major city which most other tour operators do not provide their guests. For example, in your tour of St. Mark's Basilica, SAVVY Affordable Tours® provides their guests with special access to the terrace of St. Mark's Basilica, which will allow you to step out onto a balcony overlooking the vast and picturesque St. Mark's Square. You'll no doubt want to take photographs from the balcony of St. Mark's Basilica, which provides amazing views over St. Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace, and the Venice Lagoon, all from a special balcony which most other visitors to Venice will never visit!
After visiting St. Mark's Basilica and seeing the interior of the Doge's Palace as well as the Campanile (Clock Tower), all located at St. Mark's Square, your guide will then lead you on a delightful stroll through a romantic maze of surrounding back-streets to discover the lanes, alleys, canals, and piazzas of the city. Visiting Venice without an experienced guided walking tour can be difficult, as most visitors to Venice do not know where to go or what to look for once they get there. Your outstanding expert guide will not only show you the important sites in Venice, but your guide will also provide you with the incredible background history of what you are viewing as well. In addition, your guide will assure that you will walk through the most-significant streets and alleys of Venice, showing you Venice's lesser-known gems, where the locals carry on life in this amazing Italian city --- all in a small-group which will have no more than 25 guests.
Your guided tour will not only include a visit to the major sites at St. Mark's Square, but your tour will also include a visit to see Marco Polo's house, where you'll hear all about the sailor who set sail for China and came back with stories of a land no one could comprehend at the time. In addition, you'll learn about how the water supplies and structures keep the city of Venice afloat. Your expert guide will be eager to answer your questions about this beloved Italian city.
You'll enjoy your guided walking tour through Venice, as you'll have the opportunity to cross several of Venice's lovely smaller, less well-known, bridges before reaching the world-famous, picturesque Rialto Bridge which expands the Grand Canal. The Rialto Bridge is the large white-marble bridge, which is so impressive, but ran far beyond its budget at the time of its construction. When the sunlight dances on its smooth stone and its reflection shines in the water below, you will surely agree that this beautiful bridge was truly worth the cost!
Following your morning guided tour, you are then free to independently stroll "on-your-own" to appreciate and absorb the amazing atmosphere and ambiance which makes the city of Venice truly special, unique, and memorable.
Afternoon: Optional Experience or Independent Free Time
We believe you will enjoy having an independent free afternoon in Venice to see and explore the sites which are of the greatest interest to you. Your choices of what to see-and-do in Venice are endless!
Perhaps you'll want to independently plan a visit this afternoon to view the "Peggy Guggenheim Collection", one of Europe's foremost museums focusing on Modern European and American Art of the first half of the 20th century. The personal collection of masterpieces of Peggy Guggenheim are displayed in this, the former residence of Peggy Guggenheim, located on the Grand Canal in Venice.
You may choose to independently hop on one of the vaporettos, sit back, relax, and cruise through the canals of Venice --- being sure to take special photos of this incredible Italian city --- one of the most beautiful and most photographed cities in all the world. Or, you may wish to just independently stroll and wander through the streets, lanes, and alleys set among the lovely canals to see-and-experience the real Venice in a true, authentic, and leisurely way.
Or, perhaps you'll plan ahead and choose to do it all on your free afternoon in Venice. The afternoon is all yours to experience all that which will provide you the greatest interest and enjoyment!
Evening: "Gondola Ride with Serenade" (included)
SAVVY Affordable Tours® , unlike most other low-cost tour operators, believes that our guests should not visit Venice without having a gondola ride included in their tour package. Yes, SAVVY Affordable Tours® has made arrangements for you to enjoy a truly special and memorable Venetian experience you will always cherish --- an evening Venetian gondola ride, boarding time at 6:30 pm in the center of Venice --- with a maximum of 6 guests on-board.
One of the gondoliers in a small flotilla of gondolas will be singing and playing music throughout the 35- to 40-minute gondola ride through the canals of Venice to make sure that your gondola ride with SAVVY Affordable Tours is truly "extra-special". You should know that a ride aboard one of the authentic Venetian gondolas is the only way to visit many of the unusual and fascinating corners of Venice, off the beaten track, and where time seems to have stood still centuries ago.
For most visitors to Venice, an evening gondola ride accompanied with singing and music is "a dream come true". You'll enjoy leisurely passing such famous Venice landmarks as the Rialto Bridge, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and centuries-old palaces. Your gondola ride will include the Grand Canal as well. Yes, you'll always remember and cherish your delightful evening gondola ride in Venice, the city of canals.
Once again, we believe that SAVVY Affordable Tours® proves that it provides more value and more included tours, activities, and experiences in our tour packages than any tour operator providing low-cost tours in the travel industry!
(Space is limited on the EVENING gondola ride, so this included activity is offered on a first-come, first-served basis! If no more space is available for the included evening gondola ride at the time you book, you will still be provided with an included afternoon gondola ride. Book your tour package NOW!)
Dinner: "Welcome to Venice" Dinner (included)
This evening, SAVVY Affordable Tours® has made arrangements for you to enjoy a delicious authentic Venetian WELCOME DINNER at one of Venice's wonderful Italian restaurants. You will have a selection from which to choose: an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert --- all included by SAVVY Affordable Tours®. You will also be provided with your choice of one glass of house wine, beer, soft drink, or bottled water with your WELCOME DINNER. If you would like additional wine, beer, soft drink, or bottled water, you may purchase additional beverages independently from the Italian restaurant.
Following dinner, we suggest that you enjoy a casual stroll across the lovely St. Mark's Square and absorb the sights and sounds which establish Venice as one of the greatest, most beloved, and most beautiful cities in all of Italy.
Morning: Excursion to Three islands in the Venetian Lagoon: Murano, Burano, and Torcello (included)
Afternoon: High-speed Train Journey from Venice to Florence (included)
Morning: Excursion to Three islands in the Venetian Lagoon: Murano, Burano, and Torcello (included)
You'll enjoy your morning tour, which will visit the three most-important islands in the Venetian Lagoon. See an expert glassblower at work at Murano, examine some of the best hand-made lace on the island of Burano, and take a walk around the ancient monuments on the island of Torcello. Once again, SAVVY Affordable Tours® has included for you this 4-hour excursion which most other low-cost tour operators do not include at no extra cost in their tours of Venice. Travelers will always receive not only great value, but also more experiences and extra included tours when they travel with SAVVY Affordable Tours®.
Following your breakfast which is included at your hotel, you will board your motor boat at 9:00 am to begin your morning tour to visit the three most-important islands in Venetian Lagoon. You'll head first for the island of Murano --- well-known and world-famous for its glassblowing works of art, which are easily identified by the beautiful and vibrant colors which the artisans at Murano create. You'll have the opportunity to visit one of the outstanding glassblowing factories and watch the masters at work during your visit to Murano.
Following your visit to Murano, you'll re-board your boat and head for what is arguably the most picturesque island setting --- Burano. Enjoy a delightful stroll through the streets of Burano and view the unique, brightly-colored fishermen's houses. You'll be impressed when you view the exquisite hand-made lace products which are crafted and created exclusively by experts on the island of Burano. You'll undoubtedly marvel as you view and touch the hand-made lace, which is delicate and beautiful. You'll want to visit one of the outstanding lace shops on the island, watch the quality hand-made lace products being made by Burano artisans, and purchase one of them which you can then take back home to show your family and friends.
You'll next re-board your boat and head for the island of Torcello, an island in close proximity to the island of Burano. This small island is famous for its Cathedral with spectacular Byzantine gold and stone mosaics (note: if you wish to visit the interior of the Cathedral, an entrance ticket to view the interior of the Cathedral is extra). Explore this small yet magical island and find peace as you walk around its ancient monuments. Don't miss the Ponticello del Diavolo (Devil's Little Bridge), a term given to ancient bridges believed to be constructed either with the help of the Devil or against the wishes of the Devil.
You'll return aboard your motorboat to St. Mark's in Venice about 1:00 pm, after your enjoyable four-hour tour to visit these three very unique islands. Unfortunately, many travelers to Venice miss visiting these three amazing islands, but you will visit and see all three of these islands when you book your tour with us.
Afternoon: High-speed Train Journey from Venice to Florence (included)
Following your included morning tour of the three islands, you will return to your hotel and retrieve your luggage. Then you will transfer independently to the Venice Mestre train station, where you will board your 2-hour, 10-minute train journey to Florence, arriving late afternoon. Included in your tour package will be reserved Economy-class advance-purchase seats. (For guests who wish to upgrade their train journey to Comfort-Class advance-purchase seats, simply ask us to reserve your upgrade tickets no later than 60 days prior to your tour departure. Comfort-class advance-purchase seat upgrade: $25/person.) You'll arrive at the Santa Maria Novella train station in Florence, and your hotel in Florence is conveniently located just a 5- to 15-minute walk from the Florence train station, but if upon arrival at the Florence train station you prefer to take a taxi, you may do so by your own arrangement.
After you are checked into your hotel in Florence, you are free to independently wander and explore the streets, piazzas, alleys, and important sites in the beautiful Renaissance city of Florence, the capital of Tuscany. We suggest that you consider an independent walk or taxi ride up to Piazza Michelangelo, the perfect and most-photographed site to experience one of the most beautiful and spectacular settings anywhere in Europe to capture an unforgettable sunset. Watch the magic happen and take plenty of photos as the lights of the city of Florence begin to twinkle across the city as night approaches.
Our Hotels in Florence:
Hotel Arcadia
Hotel Mario's
Hotel Ester
Hotel Mia Cara
Morning: Small-Group Guided Walking Tour of FLORENCE (included)
Afternoon: Optional Experiences Available or Independent Free Time
Evening: Optional Dinners, Cooking Classes, Events, & Activities
Morning: Small-Group Guided Tour of FLORENCE
Mid-morning you will begin your tour which will show you the important sites in Florence. SAVVY Affordable Tours® assures you that your guided walking tour of Florence, just like in Venice, will be a small-group tour, limited to no more than 25 guests, to assure our travelers that you will not feel like you are part of a large herd, but rather a part of an enjoyable small group.
You will awaken and enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. The major sites of Florence, just like in Venice, are conveniently located within walking distance of each other.
Your tour of Florence begins in the morning with a fast-track Skip-the-Line entrance ticket and access to the Accademia Gallery, where you'll have the wonderful opportunity to stand in awe at Michelangelo's four large unfinished sculptures of "the Slaves". Then it's time to stop and gaze at Michelangelo's 17-foot magnificent white marble masterpiece statue, "the David".
Your guide will then continue your walking tour to the astounding Florence Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence's Duomo), from where Brunelleschi's dome dominates the skyline of Florence and never ceases to impress. You'll be glad once again that you are part of our tour group, which has access to the Skip-the-Line entrance to enter the large, impressive Florence Cathedral.
You will then walk to the nearby architectural wonder of the Baptistery, where you'll have the opportunity to view the incomparable bronze Baptistery Doors by Ghiberti, coined the "Gates of Paradise" by Michelangelo.
Throughout your morning walking tour, you will be provided with interesting insight and information from your professional English-speaking guide about the wonderful city of Florence. You'll learn all about the fascinating history of Florence as you walk towards the heart of the Renaissance Civic and Political Center. You'll have the opportunity to view the ancient statues, glorious fountains, the exterior of the famed Uffizi Gallery, the Piazza degli Uffizi, the Piazza della Signoria, and the Medieval Palazzo Vecchio on your morning tour. Our tour will continue toward the Religious Center, stopping at the Church of Orsanmichele, where you'll admire crafted statues by famed artists such as Donatello, Ghiberti, and Verrocchio. Also, on our tour you'll have the opportunity to rub the nose of the legendary boar, "il Porcellino," to ensure your return to Florence. You'll visit Piazza della Repubblica, once the Ancient Forum, which is now a popular meeting place for famous writers, artists, and locals.
The tour will end about noon at Lungarno, facing the popular, unique, and world-famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge, which stretches across the Arno River.
Afternoon: Optional Experiences or Independent Free Time
We thought you would like having an independent free afternoon to see-and-do what is of greatest interest to you. You may click the tab "Optional Experiences," and then view the "Florence Options," where you can then select one of two wonderful "Half-day Options" this afternoon. You may wish to book our afternoon guided tour to Pisa to view the "Leaning Tower of Pisa," or you may choose to book our afternoon guided tour of Florence's world-renowned Uffizi Gallery, which is one of the largest, oldest, and most outstanding art museums in the world.
If you prefer, you may simply choose to take a nap at your hotel, or perhaps you'll want to "on-your-own" take a leisurely stroll through the lovely, historical streets and alleys of Florence. Perhaps you'll want to visit one of several outstanding museums in Florence. It's up to you what you wish to see-and-do this afternoon.
Evening: Optional Dinners, Cooking Classes, Events, & Activities
You may wish to book one of our "Evening and Dinner Options," which you can view when you click the tab, "Optional Experiences," and then view the "Florence Options," where you can then scroll down and view the "Evening and Dinner Options". You have three wonderful options available this evening: "Pizza and Gelato Making;" "Florence Cooking Course & Dinner;" or "Dinner and Concert in the Heart of Florence".
Independent Free Day:
see-and-experience more of Florence OR
b) select optional tour to visit Tuscany OR
c) select optional tour to visit Cinque Terre
There are so many options available for our guests to select on their Independent Free Day in Florence. Most low-cost tour operators do not provide one full independent free day in Florence, the capital of Tuscany, to provide their guests the opportunity to choose from several options regarding what to see-and-do. The travel professionals at SAVVY Affordable Tours® felt that each of our guests should be provided one free independent day to engage in one of several optional experiences. As a result, we provided this free day in Florence to allow each guest to independently see and explore the many options in and around Florence! So, today is YOUR opportunity to see-and-experience what is the greatest interest and importance to YOU! We hope that you like what SAVVY Affordable Tours® believes is a "perfect mix" --- including all the major sites in Florence, but then giving YOU the opportunity to decide what YOU wish to see-and-do in and around Florence on this independent free day.
You may choose from among the following on your independent free day:
- Sit back, relax, and make no specific plans or book any tours or activities.
- Select one of our optional "Full-day tours --- Florence". Click the tab: "Florence Optionals" to view your choices.
- Select one (or two) of our optional "Half-day tours --- Florence". Click the tab: "Florence Optionals" to view your choices.
Morning: High-speed Train Journey from Florence to Rome (included)
Late Afternoon: Guided Tour of Rome's Historical Sites & Fountains (included)
Morning: High-speed Train Journey from Florence to Rome (included)
Following an included breakfast at your wonderful hotel, you will walk from your hotel in Florence to the nearby Santa Maria Novella train station. (For those guests who prefer, you may transfer to your Florence train station independently at your own expense by taxi.) You will board your 95-minute high-speed train journey to Rome. Included in your tour package will be reserved Economy-class advance-purchase seats. (For guests who wish to upgrade their train journey to Comfort-Class advance-purchase seats, simply ask us to reserve your upgrade tickets no later than 60 days prior to your tour departure. Comfort-class advance-purchase seat upgrade: $20/person.) You'll arrive at the Roma Termini train station in Rome, and your hotel in Rome is conveniently located just a 5- to 15-minute walk from the Roma Termini train station, but if upon arrival at the Rome train station you prefer to take a taxi, you may do so by your own arrangement.
Following checking-in at your hotel in Rome in the early afternoon, you may relax, take a nap, or begin to independently explore the streets of Rome.
Late Afternoon: Small-Group Guided Tour of Rome's Historical Sites & Fountains (included)
You'll enjoy your guided tour with English-speaking guide of the important historical architectural sites in Rome: the Piazza Navona, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. As an added treat on this late afternoon tour, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious, yummy Italian Gelato as well --- included at no extra cost to you!
This tour begins mid to late afternoon, allowing you time to get relaxed and refreshed beforehand. Unlike most other low-cost tour operators, SAVVY Affordable Tours® does not charge extra for this tour, but rather includes this essential 2 ½- hour guided walking tour in our guests' tour package. We do not believe that any traveler should miss even a single one of these sites which you will see and visit on this tour, so SAVVY Affordable Tours® has included this extra tour in your tour package. We hope that savvy travelers will notice all the tours, excursions, and activities which we include in our tour package which are NOT included by most all other low-cost tour operators. You truly get more for your money when you travel with SAVVY Affordable Tours®.
Your late afternoon tour of Rome's most special landmarks and sites includes Piazza Navona, which is the home of the world-famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, created by Bernini. Your guide will point out and share with you the history of several important landmarks in and around Piazza Navona.
Your expert guide will then lead you on your walking tour to one of Rome's most important sites --- the Pantheon --- a structure completed by the Emperor Hadrian and dedicated about 126 A.D. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved Ancient Roman buildings, and it has been in continuous use throughout its history. After almost two thousand years, the Pantheon's dome is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. The Pantheon is also the burial site of several important, well-known Italians, including the artist Raphael. Your guide will point out and share with you the history and the significance of this important Roman landmark.
Following your visit to the Pantheon, you will visit one of the most beautiful and beloved fountains in all the world --- the Trevi Fountain. It is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, and one of the most famous fountains in all the world. Restoration of this impressive, spectacularly-beautiful fountain was completed in November, 2015. The restoration included the installation of more than 100 LED lights to provide improved illumination of the fountain at night. Legend states that if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain using your right hand over your left shoulder that it will "guarantee" that you will return to Rome in your lifetime. This was the theme of the 1954 classic movie, "Three Coins in a Fountain," and the Academy-award winning song by that name is still a cherished favorite of many people.
Your final stop on this tour will be the well-known "Spanish Steps," which is the widest staircase in all of Europe. The "Spanish Steps" is a stairway of 135 steps leading from the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinita dei Monti church at the top. These steps became well-known and famous because of the 1953 film, "Roman Holiday," which starred Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
Following your guided tour, we suggest that you walk to Via Condotti (Condotti Street), which is only one short block from the Spanish Steps, where your guided tour will end. Via Condotti is the top fashion street in Rome, which has most all of the upscale Italian fashion retail stores and shops --- e.g., Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Bally, Gucci, Christian Dior, Hermes, Bulgari, Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Max Mara, Valentino, Montblanc, and many others. Perhaps you'll want to "break your piggy bank" and return home with a genuine Italian leather item to remember your memorable vacation trip to Italy!
You are free to independently explore more of Rome's incredible sights and treasures this evening. Rome is large, but the subway system makes it quick, affordable, and easy to get to where you want to be in this, the capital city of Italy. The staff at your hotel will be happy to help you to get oriented, as well as to provide many wonderful suggestions for you to see-and-do what is of greatest interest to you.
Our Hotels in Rome:
Marco Polo
Hotel Domus Praetoria
Hotel Max
Domus Augusta
Morning: Skip-the-Line Ancient Rome Half-Day Tour of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill (included)
Afternoon: Optional Experiences or Independent Free Time in Rome
Evening: Optional Dinner Experience
Morning: Skip-the-Line Ancient Rome Half-Day Small-Group Guided Tour of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill (included)
You will awaken and enjoy a delicious breakfast included at your hotel. Your guided tour of Ancient Rome --- the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill --- is guaranteed to be, once again, in a small group, having no more than 25 guests with a professional English-speaking guide included in your tour package. Remember that most other low-cost tour operators will have 35 - 55 participants in their tour groups. Go with the finest affordable tour operator in Italy --- SAVVY Affordable Tours®.
Experience the wonders of Ancient Rome with your Skip-the-Line entrance tickets on this half-day tour, which covers the most-important ancient historical sites in Rome: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
This included tour of some of Rome's most important historical ancient treasures is a tour you will always remember! Your guided tour of the ancient sites will also be conducted by a professional English-speaking tour guide, who is licensed and expertly-trained-and-qualified to provide you the important information and insight which will make this tour of Ancient Rome truly memorable!
We begin your guided tour with a wonderful panoramic view of the Colosseum atop Colle Oppio ("Opium Hill"). The Colosseum was officially designated as one of the "New 7 Wonders of the World" in 2007. The Colosseum is the most recognizable landmark in all of Rome, and you will be provided with a tour of not only the exterior, but also the highly-sought-after and preferred Skip-the-Line entrance tickets so you can see and experience the interior of this famous, recognizable structure without waiting in a long line (often 2- 3 hours). Your expert guide will point out all the important facts and history which you should know, provide you some of the interesting tales of gladiators, mock sea-battles, and executions which took place here, as well as answer your questions. A guided tour of the Colosseum with your professional guide will be a tour which you shall never forget!
Next your tour guide will lead you to the Arch of Constantine before we arrive at Palatine Hill, which is the most-famous of the "7 hills of Rome". From here you will have the opportunity to absorb the incredible panorama and take special personal photos of the Roman Forum, as well as Nero's Circus Maximus, where chariot races were held.
Then your guided tour will provide you, once again, with Skip-the-Line ticket entrance tickets to the famous Roman Forum. Your guided tour of the Roman Forum will include a walk along the "Via Sacra" ("Sacred Way"), which is the most-important path through the Roman Forum. The most-important facts and history of the Roman Forum will be shared with you during your tour of this vast and impressive historical archaeological site. Your tour will include a visit to the Temple where Julius Caesar was cremated. Your morning guided tour of Ancient Rome will end at the end of the "Via Sacra" near the Senate House. You are free to stay at the Roman Forum and independently explore even more on-your-own following your guided tour.
Afternoon: Optional Experience or Independent Free Time
Most travelers want to have the opportunity to enjoy an independent free afternoon in Rome, which allows them to see-and-do what is of the greatest interest to them. You may click the tab "Optional Experiences," and then view the "Rome Options," where you can then view our "Half-Day" optional tour which is offered on Mondays, which is the "Skip-the-Line Small Group Guided Tour of the Catacombs & Crypts". The Borghese Gallery & Gardens tour, which is the other optional experience we offer in Rome, is not offered on Mondays, as the Borghese Gallery & Gardens is closed on Mondays. If you wish to take our optional tour of the amazing Borghese Gallery and Gardens, you may book that optional experience the following day --- Tuesday afternoon.
If you do not wish to book the optional "Skip-the-Line Small-Group Guided Tour of the Catacombs & Crypts" this afternoon, you may simply choose to take a nap at your hotel, or perhaps you'll want to "on-your-own" take a leisurely stroll through the historical streets and alleys of Rome. Perhaps you'll want to visit one of several outstanding museums in Rome. It's up to you what you wish to see-and-do this afternoon.
Evening: Optional Dinner Experience
You may wish to consider booking our optional "Rome at Night Illuminated Tour Including Dinner". You may click the tab "Optional Experiences", and then view the "Rome Options," where you can then scroll down and view our "Evening and Dinner Option".
Morning: Skip-the-Line Small-Group Guided Tour of Vatican City, including the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica (included)
Afternoon: Optional Experiences or Independent Free Time
Evening: "Farewell to Rome" Dinner (included)
Morning: Skip-the-Line Small-Group Guided Tour of Vatican City (included)
You will begin your morning with an included breakfast served at your hotel in Rome. Following breakfast, you will be treated to one of the finest tours of the Vatican, led by a truly professional, expert guide.
For many travelers, a guided tour of Vatican City is a "dream-come-true" experience. Did you realize that a visit to Vatican City is actually a visit to another country, separate and distinct from Italy? The Pope serves as the official head of state of this, the smallest country in the world. Geographically, however, the city of Rome and Vatican City are connected and appear to be inseparable.
Your visit to Rome would not be complete without providing you a fascinating and comprehensive guided tour of Vatican City, led by a professional Vatican expert guide who will point out the most-significant historical artifacts which are housed here. Your guide will provide you with invaluable insight and information, which will enhance your understanding and appreciation of all that is a part of Vatican City.
Please note that, once again, SAVVY Affordable Tours® will provide you a "Small-group" tour experience with no more than 25 guests on your guided tour of Vatican City. Most other "low-cost" tour operators conduct large-group tours of 35 - 55 participants on most all their tours in Italy. Our "small-group" tours with a maximum of 25 guests conducted by one of our professional English-speaking guides will provide you a much-better personalized tour experience than the large-group tours provided by most other low-cost tour operators.
If you want immediate access to the Vatican Museum, rather than waiting in what is almost always a very long two-to-three-hour queue, then this Skip-the-Line tour of Vatican City with your English-speaking guide is exactly what you want and need. With the exclusive access which is provided for your "small group," you can enter the Vatican Museum with your expert guide at 10:00 am and immediately begin admiring and learning about the world's most extensive private collection of art, sculpture, tapestries, etc. which are housed in the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
Yes, the special no-wait access option will allow you to skip-the-line and avoid two to three hours of waiting. To be sure that you hear all the commentary your guide will provide each guest with a personal headset so that no one will miss a thing during this incredible tour.
Your English-speaking, Vatican-expert tour guide will personally cater to your needs, answer your questions, and make your visit to Vatican City truly unforgettable. The Vatican Museums occupies over 2,000 rooms and an incredible nine (9) miles of the most extensive collection of art in the world. Obviously, you will be so grateful that your outstanding guide at the Vatican will escort you to the most-important rooms in the Vatican Museums, so that you see the most-significant works which are on display here. Your guide will include all the following on your guided walking tour: the Pinecone Courtyard, the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Gallery of Candelabra. In addition, you'll visit Raphael's Rooms and marvel at the interconnecting galleries that showcase the true artistic genius of Raphael.
One of the highlights of your walking tour will be your included visit to the Sistine Chapel. Here the vast beautiful, brightly-colored frescoes will cause you to stand in awe, along with other visitors, of this world-renowned site. The late 15th-century frescoes depict the Life of Moses and the Life of Christ. If you are like most visitors, you'll enter the Sistine Chapel and truly be awe-struck by the incredible frescoes which were painted on the walls of the Sistine Chapel about 500 years ago.
At the beginning of the 16th century, Michelangelo spent four years of his life and painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel --- a masterpiece which is without precedent. Years later (between 1535 A.D. and 1541 A.D.) Michelangelo returned to the Sistine Chapel and spent six years of his life painting The Last Judgment. Yes, you'll have the opportunity to personally gaze upon these world-famous masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. You should know that the Sistine Chapel is also the special important site in the Vatican where the College of Cardinals elect each successive Pope, whenever the reigning Pope dies or resigns.
Your next stop on your full-morning tour will be at the vast and imposing St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church building in all the world --- with the capacity to accommodate 60,000 people. The interior of St. Peter's is lavishly decorated with marble, reliefs, architectural sculpture, and gilding. Housed and on public display for all to see in St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most famous and beautiful white-marble sculptures to have ever been crafted --- Michelangelo's beloved masterpiece the Pieta, depicting Mary, the Mother of Jesus, holding the body of Jesus as He has been taken down from the cross. The baldachin, or canopy over the Papal Altar, claims to be the largest piece of bronze in the world, and it was designed by Bernini. The sanctuary culminates in a sculptural ensemble, also crafted by Bernini, containing the symbolic Chair of St. Peter.
As the tour draws to a close, your guide will escort you outside to admire magnificent St. Peter's Square. From here, you will be able to personally see the balcony from which the Pope delivers his public addresses. You are free to stroll St. Peter's Square on-your-own at the conclusion of this tour.
Afternoon: Optional Experiences or Independent Free Time
Most travelers want to have the opportunity to enjoy another independent free afternoon in Rome, which allows them to see-and-do what is of the greatest interest to them. You may click the tab "Optional Experiences," and then view the "Rome Options," where you can then view our two "Half-Day" optional tours which are offered on Tuesdays: the "Skip-the-Line Catacombs & Crypts tour," as well as the "Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of the Borghese Gallery & Gardens".
If you do not wish to book one of our "Optional Experiences" this afternoon, you may simply choose to take a nap at your hotel, or perhaps you'll want to "on-your-own" take a leisurely stroll through the historical streets and alleys of Rome. Perhaps you'll want to visit one of several outstanding museums in Rome. It's up to you what you wish to see-and-do this afternoon.
Evening: "Farewell to Rome" Dinner (included)
This evening, SAVVY Affordable Tours® has made arrangements for you to enjoy a delicious authentic Roman FAREWELL DINNER at one of Rome's wonderful Italian restaurants. You will have a selection from which to choose: an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert --- all included by SAVVY Affordable Tours®. You will also have your choice of one glass of house wine, beer, soft drink, or bottled water with your FAREWELL DINNER. If you would like additional wine, beer, soft drink, or bottled water, you may purchase additional beverages independently from the Italian restaurant.
in Vatican City (included)
More of Rome and Vatican City
Following your included breakfast, you will be met and picked up at 7:30 am at your hotel in Rome. Today is your opportunity to attend and be a part of a Papal audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican. Join this tour which will allow you to have a hassle-free audience with the Pope and enjoy a short panoramic tour of the city of Rome as well. This opportunity is only available on Wednesdays, the day which Pope Francis hosts this event.
You will be provided by the Tour Coordinator with a priority, limited-viewing ticket as you attend Pope Francis' weekly audience for people from around the world who wish to come together and pray along with the Pope and the audience assembled.
On your way to the Papal audience, you will enjoy a drive through Rome and will see some of the city's historical sites as you cross Via Nazionale, Piazza Venezia, Corso Vittorio, Corso Rinascimento, and Lungotevere such as Piazza della Repubblica, Aurelian Walls, and Villa Borghese Gardens. You will also be provided with a glimpse of the northern gate of Rome leading into Piazza del Popolo. You'll be able to view the famous Egyptian Obelisk as well. Upon arriving at St. Peter's Square, you'll view the impressive ancient tomb of Emperor Hadrian.
Please understand that the day and time may vary if the Pope alters his scheduled Papal Audience on Wednesday morning. Each Wednesday morning is the Pope's traditional audience with the people. The Papal audience will be held in either St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, or the Audience Hall (depending on the situation and conditions, number of visitors taking part, etc.)
This tour should conclude between 10:30 am - 11:00 am at St. Peter's Square. You are free to independently see-and-explore the city of Rome on-your-own.
Morning: Train Journey from Rome to Naples, where you will be met and driven to the Ruins of Pompeii, followed by an early-afternoon drive to Sorrento (included)
You will enjoy your included breakfast at your hotel in Rome before you walk from your hotel to the Roma Termini train station. (For those guests who prefer, you may transfer to the Roma Termini train station independently at your own expense by taxi.) You will board your 80-minute train journey to Naples.
Admission to Pompeii (included)
Upon arrival at the Naples train station, you will be met by our Italian representative and driven to the Ruins of Pompeii to visit this historic site with included entrance and professional English speaking guide.
Pompeii was destroyed and its inhabitants killed when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in the year 79 A.D. The ancient city was "lost" for more than 1,500 years, buried under 13 - 20 feet of ash and pumice. In 1997 the Ruins of Pompeii was designated an official UNESCO World Heritage site, and holds an intense fascination for travelers from around the world.
Following your tour of the Ruins of Pompeii, you will be driven to your hotel in Sorrento, a distance of about 20 miles. Sorrento is a lovely Italian resort town, overlooking the Bay of Naples in southern Italy. Sorrento's spectacular sea cliffs and lovely hotels attract top celebrities from around the world. Also, the popular and well-known Italian drink, "Limoncello", is produced in Sorrento.
After you check-in to your hotel in Sorrento, the balance of the afternoon and evening you'll be free to enjoy and explore independently the sights and ambiance of this beloved Italian resort town. With its cliff-top position overlooking the sparkling sea, the bustling port, and picturesque bays, the panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast and surrounding hills have made Sorrento a favorite resort with visitors since Roman times. You'll appreciate the opportunity to have an independent free afternoon and evening here to savor the special atmosphere, attractions, and ambiance which make Sorrento so "extra-special". Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets and alleys of Sorrento, and the amazing vistas all around will surely be etched in your memory forever!
Our Hotels in Sorrento:
II Nido Hotel Sorrento
Hotel Britannia
Hotel del Mare
Hotel Johanna Park
Hotel Ulisse Deluxe
Full-Day Amalfi Coast Highway Guided Small-Group Tour Included with visits to Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Sorrento, which is included with your tour package. Following breakfast, you will be met and picked up at your hotel about 8:30 am to enjoy what most travelers have stated is "the most beautiful drive in all the world" --- a drive along Italy's fabled Amalfi Coast Highway. The famed coastline highway offers breathtaking scenery from beginning to end. Your professional driver/guide will drive you to the three most popular and picturesque towns and villages along the world-famous Amalfi Coast Highway. You'll likely always remember the real "charm" and "colorful architecture" of each of these three towns you visit on today's tour. There is even an opportunity to enjoy the beach or a boat trip (at your own expense) on today's full-day tour.
Unlike most other low-cost tours, SAVVY Affordable Tours® does not use a large motorcoach seating 50 - 55 travelers on this full-day tour. Instead, you will experience a wonderful small-group tour of the Amalfi Coast Highway, with visits to Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello in an air-conditioned mini-van, which we believe is the "ideal" vehicle for experiencing the spectacular scenery along the breath-taking Amalfi Coast Highway. What makes this tour really "special" is that you experience the spectacular Amalfi Coast Highway "roundtrip" --- not just one-way --- as most other tours offer. This full-day experience provides our SAVVY guests what is, undoubtedly, some of the most beautiful, awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping, spectacular scenery in all the world! Get your camera ready!!!
Your first stop today will be the perfect picture-postcard town of Positano --- just a leisurely 35-minute drive from Sorrento. Positano is world-renowned for its spectacular setting and panoramic position and is often referred to as the "Jewel of the Amalfi Coast". Positano's unique tiered cliff-side setting on the Mediterranean Sea, its precariously-perched pastel-colored houses cascading down to the Sea, as well as its church's gleaming dome have all made Positano a popular "favorite" with visitors from around the world for many decades. Positano is truly a sight to behold and one you shall always remember!
After your visit to Positano, you will continue your drive along the Amalfi Coast Highway and pass the lovely villages of Praiano, Furore, Conca dei Marini. We then will arrive in the town of Amalfi, where you will enjoy a two-hour visit at this picturesque town. Amalfi is an ideal spot to enjoy lunch overlooking the spectacular-blue Mediterranean vistas (lunch is on your own).
Then, you'll be enthralled as your mini-van ascends the stunningly-beautiful winding road to Ravello, where you'll enjoy the amazing viewpoint of the Villa Rufolo. Ravello is situated on a more elevated position than the other towns along the Amalfi Coast Highway, so that you have truly exceptional vistas of not only the Sea, but also the lovely villas and gardens along the Amalfi Coast Highway as well.
After your visit and time in Ravello, you will have one final opportunity to absorb and savor the beautiful exquisite coastal landscapes on your one-hour return drive along the Amalfi Coast Highway. Expect to arrive back in Sorrento between 4:30 pm - 5:00 pm.
The balance of your afternoon and evening is at your leisure.
Full-Day: Cruise and Guided Tour of Capri from Sorrento
You'll begin your morning with an included breakfast at your hotel. Today you will enjoy a full-day trip to the magical, fascinating isle of Capri. You'll begin your morning with an included breakfast at your hotel. You will walk or transfer independently by taxi to the Sorrento port, where at 8:00 am you will board your jet boat for your included trip with SAVVY to the fabled and beautiful Mediterranean island of Capri.
You'll cruise from Sorrento, arriving on the island of Capri in just about 30 minutes. The isle of Capri is well-renowned for its colorful harbors, white-washed streets, lanes, and alleys, chic boutiques, as well as spectacular hilltop views across the Gulf of Naples. The isle of Capri has been and continues today to be a popular resort, visited by tourists from all around the world --- including celebrities, as well as other of the "rich-and-famous".
Your expert English-speaking guide will ensure you experience the best of this stunning Mediterranean island. Your outstanding expert guide will share with you information about the important sites on the isle of Capri, as well as provide you with guided walking tours of the two major towns/villages on the island. In addition, you'll appreciate having plenty of independent free time throughout the day at different times to enjoy and explore those sites on this island which are of the greatest interest and value to you.
The isle of Capri is an impressive, large, limestone and sandstone rock. The sides of the island are amazing, impressive perpendicular cliffs, and the surface of the island is composed of more cliffs. Roman Emperors Augustus and Tiberius, who ruled the Roman Empire about two-thousand years ago, actually developed this island for their own use as a personal retreat.
On the island of Capri is the main town, whose name is Capri, which obviously shares the same name as the island. Historically, Capri has long been a resort --- going all the way back to Roman times. One of the special and unique features of the town of Capri is that, even today, there are no cars allowed in the main part of the town. The other main town on the island, Anacapri (when literally translated, means, "above Capri"), is a small populated village located at a higher elevation than the town of Capri. Anacapri also provides excellent ambiance and vistas all around.
One of special sites you may wish to visit independently on the isle of Capri is Villa San Michele, built around the turn of the 20th Century and located between Capri and Anacapri. From the villa's gardens, you have awesome panoramic views of the town of Capri and its harbor, the Sorrentine Peninsula, and Mount Vesuvius. San Michele's gardens are adorned with many relics and works of art dating from ancient Egypt and other periods of classical antiquity.
One of the most beloved and unique places you may wish to visit on the isle of Capri is the world-renowned "Blue Grotto", a special, awesome "sea cave". Sunlight, passing through an underwater cavity and shining through the seawater, creates a brilliant, beautiful, blue reflection illuminating the cave.
The entrance to the Blue Grotto is the cave mouth, which is quite small --- only about six feet wide and about three feet high. For this reason, entrance into the Blue Grotto can only be achieved when tides are low and the sea is calm, as the Blue Grotto becomes inaccessible at other times, as the three-foot high entrance is impossible to enter. To enter the Blue Grotto, visitors do so on a small four-person rowboat, where they must lie flat as they pass through the narrow entrance. The oarsman then uses a metal chain attached to the cave walls to guide the boat inside the grotto. It is truly a special, memorable experience for those who have the opportunity to experience it (when sea conditions and weather permit).
Your included full-day tour visit to the isle of Capri includes your round-trip jet boat cruise from Sorrento to the isle of Capri. Upon arrival and docking at the port of Capri, you will then transfer to a small minibus (which is the ideal vehicle to provide our guests with the best vistas), along with your English-speaking guide, and you'll enjoy the vistas on the 20-minute scenic drive all the way up to Anacapri, the picturesque village which is the highest populated community on the island.
Your guide will provide you an informative walking tour which will introduce you to the lovely, quaint village of Anacapri. You then will be provided with independent free time to enjoy and explore this part of the island on-your-own. During this time you may wish to independently visit Villa San Michele, which is one of Capri's most-popular attractions (at your own expense). You'll want to enjoy impressive vistas from the lovely gardens at beautiful Villa San Michele if you visit this site.
Following your free time here, you'll reconvene with your guide and board your minibus for a scenic drive down to the chic town of Capri, which is well-known for its designer shops, elegant hotels, and lanes which wind between traditional white-washed buildings. Here in the town of Capri, your expert guide will provide you a one-hour walking tour to discover some of Capri's charming "nooks and crannies". Following your guided tour of Capri, you'll then be provided with free time to do what is of greatest interest to you in this area. You may wish to take some time to enjoy lunch at one of the lovely restaurants (at your own expense), or you may wish to explore and/or shop at some of the wonderful boutiques here in the main town on the island. You may also choose to book a cruise in a small boat around the island (at your own expense) to see up-close at sea level the Faraglioni rock formations and/or the dazzling Blue Grotto. Know that you may view the Faraglioni rock formations out in the azure sea without booking an optional boat ride to see them at sea level. If the weather conditions permit (please understand that, unfortunately, there are "no guarantees" that the Blue Grotto will be open), you may wish to see and experience the famous "Blue Grotto", which can only be provided by booking an optional row-boat tour to enter and explore this beautiful, unique "sea cave".
About 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm, you will reconvene once again with your guide at the port on the island of Capri, where you'll board your jet boat for the cruise back to Sorrento, arriving about 4:00 pm.
Please Note: Any optional tours, experiences, and/or entrance fees which are not already included in this full-day tour, which you choose to independently book upon arrival on the isle of Capri, would be at your own expense.
Return Flight back home OR have SAVVY provide you an EXTENSION TOUR to most any other European city of your choice.
Following breakfast which is included at your hotel in Sorrento, you have one of 2 options:
- Your transfer is included from your hotel in Sorrento to the Naples airport (NAP) for your return flight, arriving back in the U.S. or Canada the same day (on most flight itineraries).
- Select another city in Europe you wish to visit, and SAVVY Affordable Tours® will provide you hassle-free a special proposed itinerary for the additional European city you wish to visit. Your options are endless!
Occasionally, the sequence of sightseeing tours may change. Please check your Tour Documents for any sequence changes.
Optional Tour Experiences
The following list of optional experiences are available for this tour.
Venice Options
Half-Day Options
$88/personMORE INFO +
Florence Options
Half-Day Options
$75/personMORE INFO +
Full-Day Options
Cooking-Class Options
$115/personMORE INFO +
Evening and Dinner Options
$65/personMORE INFO +
Rome Options
Half-Day Options
$69/personMORE INFO +
Evening and Dinner Options
$109/personMORE INFO +
14 Days to Venice, Florence, Rome w/Papal Audience, Pompeii, Sorrento & Isle of Capri
Compare ALL we INCLUDE
in our great-value, low-cost tours
- 2 nights at centrally-located 4-star or 3-star hotel in Venice Mestre (or San Marco with Upgrade), with breakfast each morning
- Welcome to Venice Dinner (with choice of one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink)
- Small-Group Walking Tour of major sites in Venice with professional English-speaking guide
- Admission to Doges' Palace
- Admission to St. Mark's Basilica
- Evening Gondola Ride with Serenade
- Motorboat Excursion to visit 3 islands: Murano, Burano, and Torcello
- High-speed train journey from Venice to Florence
- 3 Nights at centrally-located 4-star or 3-star hotel in Florence, with breakfast each morning
- Small-Group Walking Tour of major sites in Florence with professional English-speaking guide
- Admission to Galleria dell'Accademia to see Michelangelo's David
- Entrance to Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
- Full-Day to see-and-do more of Florence on-your-own or book one or two of our wonderful Optional Experiences (click Optional Experiences tab)
- High-speed train journey from Florence to Rome
- 4 Nights at centrally-located 4-star or 3-star hotel in Rome, with breakfast each morning
- Small-Group Guided Walking Tour of Rome's Historical Sites and Fountains --- with free Gelato!
- Skip-the-Line Small-Group Guided Walking Tour of Ancient Rome
- Admission to the Colosseum
- Admission to the Roman Forum
- Skip-the-Line Tour of Vatican City
- Admission to the Vatican Museums
- Admission to the Sistine Chapel
- Entrance to St. Peter's Basilica
- Independent Free Time (two afternoons) to examine and explore the wonders of Rome on-your-own or book one or two of our wonderful Optional Experiences (click Optional Experiences tab)
- Farewell to Rome Dinner (with choice of one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink)
- Morning Papal Audience with Pope Francis in Vatican City
- Morning Train Journey from Rome to Naples
Pompeii, Sorrento, Amalfi Coast Drive, & Isle of Capri
Be met at Naples train station and driven to the Ruins of Pompeii
- Admission ticket to the Ruins of Pompeii (small group guided tour with expert guide is included - please inquire for our private tour option if you prefer)
Following your visit to the Ruins of Pompeii, you will be driven to your hotel in Sorrento
3 Nights at centrally-located 4-star or 3-star hotel in Sorrento, with breakfast each morning
Full-Day Small-Group Guided Tour along the beautiful Amalfi Coast Drive, including visits to three of the most-beloved towns --- Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
Cruise to the Isle of Capri, where you will enjoy a Full-Day guided tour of this magical island
Transfer from your hotel in Sorrento to the Naples (NAP) Airport
Comprehensive daily sightseeing per itinerary via private transportation with experienced, local driver. Admission & entrance fees to all sightseeing as detailed per itinerary.
Daily continental breakfast with coffee or tea included ~ all other beverages are extra.
Arrival and departure airport/hotel transfers are not included.
Portage is not included. You must be able to manage and transport your luggage (including carry on).
Single Supplement applies. See Dates & Rates Tab.
Travel documents are your responsibility, including compliance with customs regulations. PASSPORTS: A valid passport is required and must be obtained prior to your departure.
Tour prices are per person, based on two persons sharing double or twin-bedded room with private bathroom with tub or shower. Single rooms subject to availability and at an additional cost (tour participants without a roommate will have to pay the single room surcharge).
All departure taxes are included.
Savvy Affordable Tours®recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more.
For more information on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 06-0235.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
© 2014 Queenslander International, llc, Savvy Tours, Story Land & Sea® Tours, QueensLander® Worldwide Tours, QueensLander® Mark Story Worldwide Adventures® are service marks owned by Queenslander International, llc. The service marks and trademarks of airlines appearing on SavvyByStory.com are owned by the respective companies mentioned.
2019 Treasures of Italy Tour w/Papal Audience
14 Days
|2019 Dates & Rates
Jan 7, 14, 21, 28
|Max 25 Guests
Feb 4, 11, 18, 25
|Max 25 Guests
Mar 4, 11, 18, 25
|Max 25 Guests
Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
|Max 25 Guests
May 6, 13, 20, 27
|Max 25 Guests
June 3, 10, 17, 24
|Max 25 Guests
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
|Max 25 Guests
Aug 5, 12, 19, 26
|Max 25 Guests
Sep 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
|Max 25 Guests
Oct 7, 14, 21, 28
|Max 25 Guests
Nov 4, 11, 18, 25
|Max 25 Guests
Dec 2, 9
|Max 25 Guests
Dec 16, 23, 30
|Max 25 Guests
2020 Treasures of Italy Tour w/Papal Audience
14 Days
|2020 Dates & Rates
Jan 6, 13, 20, 27
|Max 25 Guests
Feb 3, 10, 17, 24
|Max 25 Guests
Mar 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
|Max 25 Guests
Apr 6, 13, 20, 27
|Max 25 Guests
May 4, 11, 18, 25
|Max 25 Guests
June 1, 9, 15, 22
|Max 25 Guests
July 6, 13, 20, 27
|Max 25 Guests
Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 30
|Max 25 Guests
Sep 7, 14, 21, 28
|Max 25 Guests
Oct 5, 12, 19, 26
|Max 25 Guests
Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
|Max 25 Guests
Dec 7
|Max 25 Guests
Dec 14, 21, 28
|Max 25 Guests
Get Started: Ask a Question, Schedule a Call, Request a Trip Quote, or Have us Craft Your Trip


text:
How refreshing to hear that Newport Beach Mayor Rush Hill actually addressed a couple of harbor-related issues in his speech during the 33rd annual Mayor's Dinner.
I have known Hill for many years, and I have personally seen his interest in harbor improvements during my tenure as the marine division chair for the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Two items that constantly entered the discussion are the need for water taxis and the collective thinking outside the box on how to redesign the moorings with amenities such as electrical power and water service offshore — exactly what he mentioned as among his goals as mayor and what the city needs to develop in the harbor.
Neitheridea is new, but finally Newport has a mayor who seems to be moving them to the forefront of government planning. I am embarrassed when friends visit Newport by boat and ask where they can catch a water taxi so they can grab a bite to eat. They could use a water taxi to get from their anchored boat to shore, especially with limited guest docking throughout the harbor.
The city's publication "Complete Cruising Guide to Newport Harbor" does not mention a local water taxi service yet gives the contact information for Yellow Cab and Best Limousines & Transportation for when a boater is on shore. The planning needs to include getting boaters ashore. Also, the city has changed the time limits on some of the public docks for dinghies.
But many visiting boaters may not have a dinghy or want to launch their tenders, as one can observe by the large demand of shore boats in Avalon on Santa Catalina Island. The dinghy can be wet from the ocean voyage or nighttime moisture in the air. So one can be all dressed for dinner, but a dry, clean water taxi ride is the best option to get ashore, especially if one does not want to drink and skipper a boat.
I find it noteworthy that city and community planners spend a tremendous amount of time and effort on automobile parking. Yet where is the concern for the thousands of boaters in our harbor?
Realistically, the waterways should be included in the regional traffic plans because they can provide another means of regular transportation around the harbor. We have the auto ferries between the peninsula and Balboa Island and the Catalina Flyer to and from Santa Catalina Island, but where are the harbor taxis serving the harbor locations?
Other cities, such as Long Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and New York, include water taxis in their transportation funding, as they do the bus system. However, I think that a water taxi service can only work with planning and cooperation between private and public entities.
Lastly, the idea of replacing some mooring cans with docks that are not connected to the shore has been floating around for a while. This is a great way to bring in new, innovative approaches to test what's feasible for the harbor. However, I hope this idea does not become bogged down in subcommittee after subcommittee.
Mr. Mayor, have the Harbor Commission help city staff members prepare a request for proposal or qualifications for submitting sample design plans. This is an idea that can get underway now. And it would be a good use of the harbor taxes.
Tip of the week is for the public to weigh in on the need for a water taxi service. Keep in mind that a water taxi can operate on a limited, peak-time schedule. Additionally, boaters can contact the Harbor Commission to see any conceptual designs for a mooring dock in lieu of a mooring can. Maybe you have an outstanding idea for an innovative docking structure.
Please be boat smart and boat safe. Lastly, please boat responsibly and look behind you before you turn the wheel at the helm.
Tune in to the No. 1 boating radio talk show in the nation, "Boathouse Radio Show," broadcasting live coast-to-coast on the CRN Digital Talk Radio syndicated network. See times at http://www.boathousetv.com, http://www.facebook.com/boathouseradio and http://www.twitter.com/boathouseradio.
Safe voyages!
MIKE WHITEHEAD is a boating columnist for the Daily Pilot. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to email@example.com or go to http://www.boathousetv.com.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
'Retweet if you want real border security now'
Exclusive: Andrea Shea King recaps Washington's online exploits
Gotta love Sen. Ted Cruz, R- Texas, who maintains a very visible Internet presence, often using his Twitter account to hold their feet to the fire. This time the object of his laser focus was President Obama.
Modifying a photo of the president titled "Home Sweet Home," which was posted on Obama's Organizing for Action Facebook page, the politically conservative Cruz added his own caption to the image of Obama strolling nonchalantly toward the White House, suit jacket thrown casually over one shoulder:
The Texas Senator also took to Twitter to point out the fallacies of the "Gang of Eight" amnesty bill:
Pelosi in hot water over "Snow"-bird
U.S. News reported last week that a businessman from Iceland has extended an offer to fly NSA whistle-blower Edward Snowden "to the island nation aboard a chartered jet if Iceland's government grants asylum to the man who exposed the National Security Agency's massive harvesting of Internet and phone records."
Snowden has been charged by the United States government with theft of government property, willful communication of classified communications intelligence to an unauthorized person and unauthorized communication of national defense information.
Two of those offenses fall under the U.S. Espionage Act with penalties of up to 10 years in prison.
Meanwhile, former House Speaker and dyed-in-the-wool progressive Democrat Nancy Pelosi, took some heat last weekend from fellow progressive leftists attending the annual Netroots Nation conference, a conclave of online progressive activists who "come together to make new connections, hone their organizing skills, share best practices and build stronger relationships with others working on the issues they care most about. And each year, some of the brightest minds in progressive politics come to Netroots Nation to speak with – and hear from – our community."
During her speech, Pelosi ruffled feathers when she called confessed NSA leaker Edward Snowden a criminal rather than a civil rights hero, eliciting boos and hecklers.
Witness this tweet, representative of many: "As she should. RT @dreamhampton: Pelosi is being booed and hissed for saying Snowden broke the law #NN13"
And this: "pelosi getting booed for snowden 'he did violate the law' remark. this crowd is more informed than she bargained for #nn13".
Low-info voters in three words
Twitchy reported, "It's a shame that low-information voters, for the moment at least, have such undue influence on the remainder of the country. Maybe a quick tutorial explaining these #LowInfoVotersIn3Words will help us understand all those trending topics we don't cover on Twitchy."
Among some three-word Twitter submissions using the hashtag #LowInfoVotersIn3Words to describe them:
"Hope and Change"
"I Want Stuff"
"Still Blaming Bush"
"You Are Racist"
"Tax the Rich"
"Gun Free Zone"
Google Glass doing surgery?
"OK, Glass: Hand me the scalpel, please" – Have you heard the one about the surgeon who performed an appendectomy while wearing Google Glass?
No? Then how about this one: "Rafael Grossmann, MD, FACS, used Google Glass to record a procedure in which he inserted a feeding tube into a patient. This was streamed via Hangout."
Dr. Grossman is in Google's Glass Explorer program and blogged about the experience: "To my knowledge, this is the first time that Google Glass has ever been used during live surgery, by a surgeon, and Glass Explorer, with streaming of non-identifying patient information thru a Google Glass Hangout.
"By performing and documenting this event," he continued, "I wanted to show that this device and its platform, are certainly intuitive tools that have a great potential in healthcare, and specifically for surgery, could allow better intra-operative consultations, surgical mentoring and potentiate remote medical education, in a very simple way.
"The patient involved needed a feeding tube (gastrostomy), and we chose to place it endoscopically, with a procedure called PEG (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy)," he writes. "You can Google that to learn more :). Being the first time, I wanted to do this during a simple and commonly performed procedure, to make sure that my full attention was not diverted from taking excellent care of the patient."
Read Dr. Grossman's step by step description of the procedure at his blog.
Related: USA Today reports a survey from Rackspace that finds that 82 percent of wearable technology users think that devices like Google Glass have had a positive impact on their lives. Are you among them?
Post-NSA scandal: Reagan.com email traffic soars
Blogger Marathon Pundit caught this one: "If you listen to conservative talk radio, you often hear commercials for Reagan.com email. Guess who is benefiting from the NSA revelations? From the Daily Caller:
Weekly activity among Reagan.com email address owners has "more than doubled since the NSA news was released," a spokesman for the service told The Daily Caller on Friday.
The $40 per year email service promises to "not copy, scan or sell one word of your email account" and to give President Ronald Reagan's admirers a conspicuous way to express their fondness – through a @reagan.com email address.
And if the government comes knocking?
"The answer would be no," Michael Reagan, the son of the late president and a part-owner of the email service, told TheDC Friday.
Disclosure: I purchased a Reagan.com email address several weeks ago.


text:
ATRA needed a new web page design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 47 designs submitted by 13 freelance designers.
ATRA will be launching three new website designs for its members next month. We currently have one design but would like to get two new designs that offer similar features, links and buttons with different styles.
We need two more designs for these packages and are offering 2 x $300 prizes for the best two and may award additional prize money to other submissions if we get many great designs to choose from. We only plan to launch three templates but if we receive some great designs we may increase what we offer.
The design will be programmed into two websites (we will do the coding.)
Please see full description for more details.
THE CONTEST: The contest is simple. just design different website home pages (layouts only). then we'll have our coding team code the pages/site.
WHO ARE WE: ATRA - the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association - is an international trade association for the rofessional automatic transmission repair industry. ATRA's network of automatic transmission repair professionals offer repair and warranty coverage anywhere you're likely to drive. We have been providing website templates as a member benefit to the shops that are members of the association and are now expanding our templates we offer.
We don't want the new styles to look like the example given but we want them to have the same features. Create somewhat of a shell template to have all the pages look the seam and we will program the content within the main typing areas of each page.
- We need to have all the same links and pages referenced as on this page: http://www.atramember.com
- clean style
- links to the business
- header area to be changeable for many sites
- color schemes to be easily changed. maybe submit two or three options to show how easily it can change
- Ability to add or remove link to warranty image wihtout affecting overall look of the sites for different members that don't offer warranty service.
- feminine colors (it's a predominintly male business)
- the same style as sample shown


text:
Find the perfect hotel in Gloucester using our hotel guide provided below. Search for cheap and discounted hotel and motel rates in or near Gloucester, VA for your upcoming personal or group travel. We show the best Gloucester Virginia hotel rooms. Review the Gloucester hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. We also have a map of the Gloucester hotels. Coordinating a group? Get Gloucester Group Hotel Rates
The Gloucester center is approximately 2 miles northeast of Walter Reed Birthplace and 8 miles south of Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay.
How should we direct your call?


text:
Discussion in 'General' started by kendel, Feb 14, 2013.
What would cause all the icons to be re-arranged, and how can you reset to default.
The order of the navigation items tat you see is the order of the module names in the "modules" column of the sys_user record of this user. The tabs can get reordered e.g. when you activate or deactivate modules for a user under System > CP users, so that no bug.
Separate names with a comma.


text:
The board of directors of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation is expected to approve a package of MBTA cleaning contracts Wednesday that would cut the number of hours spent cleaning train stations, a change that union representatives say will result in overworked janitorial staff and dingy station platforms.
The contracts with two companies, ABM Industries and S.J. Services, would cut the total number of janitorial workers by 29 percent in 2014, reducing the hours of service performed at T stations across the system by 25 percent.
T officials are hoping they can maintain the same level of cleanliness for less money. But union officials say they do not think that is possible.
In a June 6 letter to MBTA general manager Beverly A. Scott, the president of SEIU Local 615, the union that represents the affected workers, said the contracts would be disastrous for janitorial workers and would result in declining cleanliness at MBTA stations.
"The proposals include extreme and unprecedented eliminations of jobs and cuts in hours," wrote Rocio Saenz, the union president. "The current bid would harm workers while jeopardizing the quality of the MBTA's cleaning services."
Joe Pesaturo, a spokesman for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, said a system of checks in the contract would prevent the cleaning companies from cutting corners in efforts to provide cheaper service.
"The MBTA is well aware that cleanliness and comfort are important elements of our customers' transit experience," Pesaturo said. "The proposed contracts are carefully structured to ensure that . . . requirements are met or exceeded."
The three-year cleaning contracts, which have an option for a two-year extension, will cost the T $61.8 million and will be voted on by the MassDOT board at a meeting in Westfield. The same employees who currently clean MBTA stations will automatically be employed by the new companies. Once the contract is approved, staffing must stay the same for at least a year. After that, the contractor can decide to trim the janitorial staff.
The change comes as Scott faces pressure to combat the perception that the T is a bloated agency: The Pioneer Institute, a public policy research organization, is expected to release a report Wednesday asserting that the T spends twice as much money as comparable agencies on cleaning the interiors of MBTA buses.
"The T is overstaffed compared to comparable transit agencies, and its employees are overpaid," the organization said in a statement Tuesday.
Ingrid Nava, general counsel for SEIU Local 615, said that mandate from the T — to provide the same level of service as cheaply as possible, by whatever means necessary — caused companies to race to the bottom, providing overly ambitious estimates of how much staff they could cut without sacrificing service.
Pesaturo said a series of stipulations built into the contracts would ensure that T stations are not left unkempt, including a requirement for quality inspections and financial penalties if they fail to meet cleanliness standards.
But Nava expects that some of the janitors' current tasks will go undone and workers' conditions will decline as they scramble to fulfill their duties in fewer hours. Union members protested the contract outside the MBTA building last week.Martine Powers can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
Omar Minaya is rooting hard for Carlos Beltran to get that World Series Ring, Reports Bob Klapisch of The Record.
"I feel great for Carlos, because I still think he was the best center fielder of his time," Minaya said by telephone Tuesday. "I've known him since high school in Puerto Rico and he's always been that same person: not just a great ballplayer, but a great human being. When people like that get to the World Series, it makes you feel proud."
Minaya has no hard feeling towards the Wilpons, whom he said had little choice but to fire him and Jerry Manuel after the collapse in Flushing was beyond repair.
"We did have a great thing going, but in New York, you have to win. I get that," Minaya said. "We had a great season in '06, but to lose the way we did in '07 and '08 at the very end … when you go out like that two years in a row, changes have to be made."
I'm amazed at how many Met fans still define Beltran's career by that one at-bat, seemingly ignoring the fact he carried the Mets to that Game 7 of the NLCS with a tremendous regular season and post season performance.
As Klapisch points out, Beltran was in the wrong place at the wrong time, expecting a fastball with a 3-2 count in the bottom of the ninth.
So to any Mets fan who still feels Beltran hasn't fully paid his debts for 2006, consider the journey. He knows about pain, although there's never been a hint of his suffering. Beltran is baseball's equivalent of Mr. Spock – neutral and unruffled are in his genetic coding. He told The New York Times recently, "For me, being able to get so close and never being able to get to the World Series, all that has done is give me motivation to come every year, work hard, prepare myself and try to get there."
Clearly, the commitment has paid a monster dividend: In two seasons with the Cardinals, Beltran has hit .282 with 56 home runs, and, just as importantly, hasn't spent any time on the disabled list. His trade to the Giants in 2011 also netted the Mets right-hander Zack Wheeler, which means, in all fairness, the account is paid in full.
As for what's next as Beltran heads into the offseason, it's becoming painfully clear that future Hall of Famer could be heading to the Bronx according to what baseball people are telling Klapisch.
It would suck to see him come to New York and play for the other team.


text:
zane q needed a new t-shirt design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 64 designs submitted by 16 freelance designers.
this logo is going on the front breast of a t-shirt and the whole back. we want it to be a bluefin tuna looking kind of crazy but not mean. we want the logo on the t-shirt to say crazed fishing team we like palm trees, sunsets, the beach and the ocean as well as tuna. we would like it to be a blue fin tuna fish logo on a t-shirt. a simpler design on the front of the t-shirt and a more exotic and bigger design on the back. and the boat name is crazed.
just for friends and family
it says crazed fishing team and we want a small logo on the front breast and a large logo on the back


text:
Looks like Apple has made some changes to the App Store on iPad, including adding a slew of filters and will even let you know if any of the resulting apps are already bought/downloaded by giving you a new Install button.
New filters include Category, Release Date, Customer Rating, Price, and Device, as well as a Reset Filters option. Since App Store, like iTunes is really just an app-wrapped, internet powered, WebKit UI Apple can make all sorts of changes without having to wait for a new iOS version to ship. Usually these are just content features, banners, etc. (or the addition of Ping...) but it's nice to see new functionality sneak in every once and a while.
Also new, if you've already bought or downloaded an app but it's not currently loaded on your iPhone, you get an Install button instead of the usual Buy button.
Andrew also noticed that if you leave a search to go to Featured or Top Charts, etc. and then tap the search field at the top right, you're whisked right back the previous search results, sans keyboard.
So what do you think, welcome new features?
[Thanks Peter and Trevor!]


text:
The Smurfs 2 on Blu-ray™Sony Rewards
The Smurfs 2 - Buy On Digital Blu-ray™ November 19th; Combo Pack December 3rd!
Check out the action!
Watch the Trailer!
- Deleted Scenes
- Animating Azrael
- Daddy's Little Girl: The Journey of Smurfette
MORE SMURFY FUN FEATURES ONLY ON BLU-RAYtm!
- Evolution of the Naughties
- The Puurrfect Companion: Azrael's Tail
- The Naughties! The Tale of Hackus and Vexy
- Smurf-O-Vision 2 App**: Play Smurftastic activities with your favorite Smurfs and sync with your Blu-ray™ to unlock more fun!
** Available on iPad(TM), iPhone(TM) and iPod Touch(TM) for a limited time
Free* 8x8 photo book with Blu-ray or DVD purchase. See insert inside for complete details. Value $29.99. *Taxes, shipping and handling will apply. Offer expires 3/15/14.
Enter for a chance to win a 7-Night Cruise to the Caribbean. Courtesy of MiniTime Family Vacation Planning site, for family travel recommendations. Plus MSC Cruises - where family, adventure, and the Smurfs™ come together in the Caribbean onboard the MSC Divina, to make your best vacation ever. Your kids will have the adventure of a lifetime in their Smurfs™ - themed kid's area. No Purchase Necessary to Enter or Win. RT air included. Starts 12/03/13; ends 1/31/14. Click here for deatils
Have a Smurfy good time at Carl's Jr. Restaurants starting December 4th! Get one of three Smurf toys featuring characters from The Smurfs 2, available in every Cool Kids Combos© meal. The fun continues at www.carlscoolkids.com. While supplies last at participating Carl's Jr. Restaurants. Coming Soon
The Original Bean Chip® Visit the Site
For the Smurfiest blueberries available! Visit the Site
It's just 3 Easy Steps! Homemade Pizza in less than 15 minutes! Visit the Site
The Smurfs
Rated PGBuy on Amazon.com Download movie on iTunes
The Smurfs a Christmas Carol
Rated GBuy on Amazon.com Download movie on iTunes
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
Rated PGBuy on Amazon.com Download movie on iTunes
Hotel Transylvania
Rated PGBuy on Amazon.com Download movie on iTunes


text:
Lives on the line: reducing under-five child mortality rates in Africa
- On a global level, the rate of under-five child mortality has been cut in half, from 90 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 48 per 1,000 in 2012. The estimated annual number of under-five deaths has fallen from 12.6 million to 6.6 million over the same period.
- Since 1990, 216 million children worldwide have died before their fifth birthday — more than the current total population of Brazil, the world's fifth most populous country.
- Disparities between children in the high-income and low-income countries have narrowed, but many gaps still remain. Case in point: In Luxembourg, the under-five mortality rate is just 2 deaths per 1,000 live births; in Sierra Leone, it is 182 deaths per 1,000 births.
As we stand a year away from the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 4 – which aims to reduce the global under-five child mortality rate by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015 – the pace of reduction would have needed to quadruple in 2013-2015 to achieve this goal, according to the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF's) Committed to Child Survival: A Promised Renewed – Progress Report 2013.
A closer look at regional rates
Now let's take a look at the regional and country level data by viewing the World Development Indicators (WDI) 2014 and the indicator under-five mortality rate. The WDI also features a short progress report on MDG 4, which complements the detailed analysis of the World Bank Group's Global Monitoring Report. This report uses the same methodology to assess whether countries are on track or off track to meet the 2015 targets.
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where one in ten children die before the age of five, faces the biggest challenges in achieving MDG 4, followed by South Asia. The SSA region reduced its child mortality rate by 45% during 1990 to 2012, the only region to reduce its under-five mortality rate by less than half during this time. SSA also lags behind other regions in its pace of decline in the total number of under-five deaths.


text:
Well lookit here — the tiny hot-hatch-loving kids across the pond may have a new toy for the 'bahns and 'stradas. A new version of VW Motorsport's Polo GTI Cup may be afoot. Originally built in the late '80s, the supercharged Polo GT G40 Cup was a very limited edition homologation model for a single-make racing series. Now, as rumors have it, a new, special-edition Polo GTI in that vein, coming in 2007, will sport around 178 horsepower. Yes, Valencia, there is a Pap Noel.
Volkswagen Polo GTi CUP [Motorpasi n]
Volkswagen to Show Polo GTI in Tokyo; Ad Watch: Ich Bin Ein Baller; Polo GTI in Germany [internal]


text: Shehr-e-Zaat is a 2012 Pakistani spiritual romantic drama serial based on the novel of the same name by Umera Ahmed. It is directed by Sarmad Sultan Khoosat, and produced by Momina Duraid and Abdullah Kadwani. It stars Mahira Khan, Mikaal Zulfiqar and Mohib Mirza in the leads. It is the third highest-rated Pakistani television series.


text:
Just wanted to put it out there that Lady Ada's fans (yes we know her real name) are really hoping that she will put in an appearance at the 2011 New York Maker Faire. She is certainly one of the more influential people in the Maker World,and her minions would appreciate it if she puts in an appearance.
Thanks, Allen


text:
If you're counting sleeps until the Canucks hire their next coach, you'll probably run out of fingers.
And maybe toes too.
Be patient. If you've somehow missed this by now, the Canucks don't do anything quickly.
If they were an emergency-response team, I don't like our chances. How would they ever make it to the heart attack victim on Wreck Beach in time?
The 911 call would come in and they'd launch into safety audits, report preparation and paramedic checklists. They'd probably even do the speed limit, before someone reminds them: Uh guys, you have sirens.
Yes, they have begun a coaching search that will be slow and methodical. But they didn't fire Alain Vigneault and most of his staff without first spending significant time making a list of possible replacements. It's a long one, with some familiar names and a few surprises. As of now, it does not include Lindy Ruff, and that's not expected to change.
The Canucks are leaning toward experienced, but are open to young AHL coaches. They have steered away from candidates who haven't been head coaches in either the NHL or the minors.
Ottawa head coach Paul MacLean was able to make a successful transition from his job as an assistant in Detroit. Similarly, Adam Oates did a good job this year in Washington, his first as a head coach.
But choosing a coach who has never run a team is a step with too many risks and trap doors for the Canucks' comfort right now.
Could Vancouver end up at the draft without a head coach June 30? It's possible, especially if they want to smoke out Dave Tippett, who, in turn, is said to be waiting on the Phoenix ownership issue before making any decision. Doesn't that sound like the summer of Shane Doan all over again?
There are those around the NHL who believe Tippett is at the top of the Canucks wish list. But he's signed until June 30, and extending him will be a top priority of Coyotes GM Don Maloney, who is reportedly close to inking an extension of his own.
The Canucks may not know their next coach, but they do have a clear idea of how their roster will look. A lot like last season's roster.
Lost in all the Vigneault rubble Wednesday was GM Mike Gillis's vote of confidence for his core players.
"I think you're presuming that we're going to turn over the roster and do these things," said Gillis. "I wouldn't go there.
"I'm suggesting we need to have a different makeup and that makeup may very well come from within (or) it may come from the outside.
"We have a really good core group of players. Solid players. Solid people. We need to surround them with some younger, skilled players who can contribute."
It was a question referencing a recent letter to season-ticket holders, where Gillis wrote:
"This off-season will lead to difficult decisions including roster adjustments and changes in personnel."
Could the Canucks really bring back the same core group of players who have been together for years, some all seven of the Vigneault era, and continue to sell it as a reset?
If that's what they're planning, they may have misjudged the market, which is craving significant changes that go beyond the head coach.
Many Canucks fans are anxious for this team to flip the script, which has seen them pummelled in three consecutive playoff series because they lack firepower up front.
Currently, they are not planning to trade Alex Edler, whose no-trade clause begins in July. That's a topic the team needs to revisit before the draft, which has become something of a trade frenzy the past few years.
It's true, it's not fair to trade Edler. He took less to sign a long-term extension believing he was one of the core players the team was building around. But how fair is it to the rest of the core if they don't explore this potential blockbuster as an option in an attempt to reboot the team?
The Canucks have a stacked blueline, and desperately need help in their top nine. An elite scoring winger would be wonderful, but the Canucks still haven't replaced Manny Malhotra, who was injured two years ago.
That has to change.
This team needs a centre, and it doesn't matter how ready Brendan Gaunce looks right now.
Also, the Canucks are not planning to use a compliance buyout on David Booth.
It's unlikely they'll trade Alex Burrows.
It would be a lot of status quo for a stale team.
It would also put tremendous amount of pressure on a new coach to be the one making the difference.


text:
HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE, DES MOINES — The 2010-11 season can't begin fast enough for the Mount Pleasant High School boys basketball team. Generic HERBAL VIAGRA, The Panthers need it to start immediately to wash away memories of 43 turnovers in the last two games, as well as a shooting percentage somewhere south of 40 percent and 3-point shooting at 11 percent, herbal HERBAL VIAGRA. HERBAL VIAGRA coupon, This season was certainly a learning curve, but a successful one, HERBAL VIAGRA for sale. HERBAL VIAGRA price, Fourth place isn't what the Panthers wanted on Tuesday, but records were set this season, HERBAL VIAGRA dosage, HERBAL VIAGRA maximum dosage, including a sparkling 22-3 mark.
"Our team really came together this year and bonded together, HERBAL VIAGRA price, coupon, What is HERBAL VIAGRA, " said Austin Marshall, who kick-started the tournament with a 28-point effort in the quarterfinals, HERBAL VIAGRA results. "We're still sad we lost, but I think we're happy not to lose some great teammates, that everyone will be back."
Few teams will return their entire roster, but nothing is a given, HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. Where can i order HERBAL VIAGRA without prescription, It will still take hard work to get back to Des Moines. Class 2A runner-up Solon appears ready to move up to 3A (it already has in football), HERBAL VIAGRA images, HERBAL VIAGRA blogs, and Assumption will be sound again. Pella is always tough, HERBAL VIAGRA samples. HERBAL VIAGRA pharmacy, Mount Pleasant, which was ranked No, HERBAL VIAGRA gel, ointment, cream, pill, spray, continuous-release, extended-release. HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE, 1 for a long stretch this season, should be a top-three team next year start to finish. HERBAL VIAGRA steet value, Rankings, though, australia, uk, us, usa, Buy HERBAL VIAGRA no prescription, don't mean much. At the end of the day, purchase HERBAL VIAGRA online no prescription, HERBAL VIAGRA without prescription, it comes down to playing ball. Ask Des Moines Christian, HERBAL VIAGRA cost, Real brand HERBAL VIAGRA online, which entered the state tournament without a loss and was bounced immediately. Injuries also happen, HERBAL VIAGRA interactions, Discount HERBAL VIAGRA, and the Panthers were fortunate not to have any this season.
"We know what it takes to get there now, and there is a lot of enthusiasm to get better," Mount Pleasant coach Paul Rundquist said, HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. "I understand how difficult it is, order HERBAL VIAGRA from mexican pharmacy. HERBAL VIAGRA from canadian pharmacy, We've gone through some tough battles this year."
The Panthers have all the pieces to make another big run next season, and the emergence of key players late in the season could make the team a little deeper, HERBAL VIAGRA class. Buy HERBAL VIAGRA without a prescription, One big question remains, and that's whether Jess Settles will return to help out Rundquist, HERBAL VIAGRA schedule. Settles' work with first cousin Henry Krieger-Coble and Nick Lyon was huge, and Settles only was on the bench for a month. HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE, Lyon emerged as an excellent sixth man and gave some valuable minutes during the postseason.
Indeed, the future is bright for the Panthers. They can't wait to see what next season has in store.
SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD: Mount Pleasant was awarded the Class 3A Sportsmanship Award by the IAHSAA after the state championship game. The trophy is given out to the team that shows the best sportsmanship among its players, coaches and fans. I saw everyone in 3A except for Carroll and Dallas Center-Grimes, and Mount Pleasant's fan following was the best, even for a consolation game that had the feeling of two teams going through the motions, HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. It was a home-court advantage, for sure.
ALL-TOURNAMENT TEAM: Mount Pleasant's Henry Krieger-Coble was named to the Class 3A all-tournament team, which is selected by the media. Krieger-Coble had a double-double in each of the last two games, going for 11 points and 10 rebounds against Davenport Assumption Saturday, and 13 and 11 in the semifinal loss to Pella. Sioux City Heelan's Zach McCabe, who has signed with the University of Iowa, was named captain of the team.
AMONG THE BEST: Mount Pleasant's Austin Marshall had a great state tournament, even if his field-goal percentage won't show it. He finished second in Class 3A in scoring with 42 points, trailing only McCabe (55). Krieger-Coble finished as the 3A leaders in rebounding (25), tied with McCabe and Davenport Assumption's Blake Schneden.
WARTH THE WAIT: Burlington native Mark Warth officiated the Class 3A championship game, which Sioux City Heelan won 50-45 over Pella..
Similar posts: BUY TEGRITAL OVER THE COUNTER. BUY AYGESTIN OVER THE COUNTER. BUY FRUMIL OVER THE COUNTER. BUY MOTRIN OVER THE COUNTER. Order NORPLANT-72 from United States pharmacy. ANSIETEN description. Buy cheap CAMAZEPAM. Canada, mexico, india.
Trackbacks from: HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. HERBAL VIAGRA FOR SALE. Discount HERBAL VIAGRA. Purchase HERBAL VIAGRA online no prescription. Comprar en línea HERBAL VIAGRA, comprar HERBAL VIAGRA baratos. Fast shipping HERBAL VIAGRA.


text:
Browse by Group
Group by: Creators Name | Item Type | No Grouping
Number of items: 8.
Eccles, S., 2002. The lived experiences of women as addictive consumers. Journal of Research for Consumers, 4, pp. 1-17.
Foster, R., Tewungwa, S. and Daymon, C., 2002. Future Reflections: Four Scenarios for Television in 2012: a senario analysis study of the television industry. Poole: Bournemouth Media School, Bournemouth University.
Knudsen, E., 2002. Doctorate by Practice: A Case Study. Journal of Media Practice, 3 (3), pp. 179-184.
Norfolk, L. and White, N., 2002. Ott's Sneeze. London: Bookworks.
Thomas, B., 2002. Multiparty talk in the novel: the distribution of tea and talk in a scene from Evelyn Waugh's Black Mischief. Poetics Today, 23 (4), pp. 657-684.
Triscott, N. and La Frenais, R., 2002. Cleanrooms. London: The Arts Catalyst.
Woodruffe-Burton, H., Eccles, S. and Elliott, R., 2002. Towards a theory of shopping: a preliminary conceptual framework. Journal of Consumer Behaviour, 1 (3), pp. 256-266.
Watson, T., Osborne-Brown, S. and Longhurst, M., 2002. Issues Negotiation™ – investing in stakeholders. Corporate Communications: An International Journal, 7 (1), pp. 54-61.
About the University / Courses / Academic Centres / Research / Academic Support / Facilities and Resources / Services to Business
Access for All / News and Events / Future Students / International Students / Current Students / Staff / Alumni


text:
MIDDLEBURY — The Festival on-the-Green capped what organizers said was one of its finest seasons, attracting big crowds who took in 17 great acts amid picture-perfect weather for its 34th annual run on Middlebury's village green.
"Everything fell so nicely into place this year," said Festival Secretary Pat Boera, who has helped lead the weeklong entertainment ritual since its debut in 1978.
"I can't believe how we lucked out with the weather."