British Columbia- Beautiful Kelowna and the Okanagan Wine Valley
Coming Spring 2023!
Join Travac on this incredible escape to explore the beautiful Okanagan Valley Wine region and Kelowna. An eclectic mix of spectacular mountains, sunny laid-back city life, lakeshore parks with incredible waterfronts, and lush vistas of rolling hills, orchards, and vineyards make spending time in Kelowna’s surroundings an ideal vacation.
Travac’s Okanagan adventure will take you deep into the heart of wine country. You’ll be accommodated at the downtown Royal Anne Hotel, enjoy a continental breakfast each day, visit 4 wineries that will include tastings at some of the most acclaimed wineries that the Okanagan Valley has to offer.
The Okanagan Valley Wine region is Canada’s second largest wine producing area and it accounts for more than 80% of BC’s wine production. Your days will be filled with local attractions and wine tastings, even a lunch at a local winery. The beauty and taste of this area will leave you wanting to return – join us this spring to experience one of Canada’s regional crown jewels!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Today we will depart with Air Canada from Ottawa via Calgary to Kelowna. On arrival we will board our private coach and be transferred to the hotel (drive is approx. 35min). Your Travac Tours Director will get you checked in to the hotel.
Day 2
Today we will head south to Summerland a vista of scenery. We will do a very scenic ride on the steam train then after lunch we will visit the 6-hectare Ornamental Gardens, created in 1916 by Agriculture Canada. While there you will have amazing views of Okanagan Lake, Giant’s Head Mountain and the Trout Creek Trestle railroad bridge, an outstanding engineering feat constructed for the Kettle Valley Railway. Evening is free to explore.
Day 3
This morning we will meet our local guide for a 2 hour walking tour of Kelowna’s downtown core. Then we will be picked up at the hotel by private coach and we will head out for our winery lunch and wine tasting at Summerhill winery just on the outskirts of Kelowna.
After lunch we will return to the city. The rest of the day is free to explore.
Day 4
This morning we drive to the far south of BC’s border to Canada’s only desert –Osoyoos. Native culture prevails in the town of Osoyoos – We will visit first the NK’MIP Desert Cultural Centre for a guided tour with some free time there to explore on your own. You will then have some free time in downtown Osoyoos to shop and have lunch ($). On our way home we will stop at “The Wine District” and do a wine tasting. The “District has about 7-8 different wineries in one place! We include one tasting and then give you time to explore.
Evening is free time.
Day 5
Today is a free day to explore Kelowna on your own.
Two options today – #1 Free day to explore more of Kelowna – Your Travac Tours Director can advise of ideas for the day.
#2 There will be an optional FULL DAY tour to Penticton for beer, wine and spirit tastings.
Tonight we will walk to Sandhill Winery for tastings and live music.
Day 6
Today we will head north of Kelowna to the beautiful, picturesque area of Lake Country. Our first stop will be the Kangaroo Farm. Yes, there are kangaroo and wallabies in BC! We will make a stop for lunch (on your own $) After lunch we will make a stop at the Planet Bee Honey Farm to see, taste, browse and sip the experience! On our way home we will stop for a wine tasting.
Day 7
We will depart this morning with Air Canada via Calgary. We trust you enjoyed your time in beautiful Kelowna! You will probably want to go back.
Itinerary, flights, attractions subject to change.
Egypt with Viking Cruises
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Cairo, Egypt:
Arrive in Cairo, Egypt’s exhilarating capital. This pulsating, historic city was made prosperous over millennia as a stopover for Sahara caravans on trade routes to Byzantium. Transfer to the First-Class Ritz Carlton Nile (or similar) for a 3-night stay.
Day 2
Cairo, Egypt:
This morning we take an excursion to the necropolis at Sakkara to see the world’s oldest step pyramid. After lunch, continue to the Giza Plateau to behold the only Wonder of the Ancient World still standing: the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. There, you can experience them as the ancients did—from astride the “ships of the desert”—during a brief camel ride. Nearby, see the Great Sphinx, forever facing due east. Return to your hotel for dinner and a free evening to relax or explore on your own. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3
Cairo, Egypt:
Today the fascinating sights of Cairo unfold before you. Marvel at the sprawling Citadel of the Mountain and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Then tour the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities and admire its huge collection of artifacts, and visit the famous gallery displaying the riches of King Tutankhamen. After lunch on your own at or near your hotel, use your free time in the afternoon to follow your own interests. Later, you might join an optional visit to Khan el-Khalili, Cairo’s most famous outdoor souk (bazaar). After an orientation from your guide, you can shop for all manner of Egyptian goods, from brassware to spices, and admire the Al-Azhar Mosque. Conclude your outing with a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast)
Day 4
Luxor, Egypt:
Early this morning, fly to Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes beautifully set on the Nile River, where history will be brought to life by your expert Egyptologist. At the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, long buried beneath desert sands, walk among monumental peristyles and obelisks, and learn how ancient hieroglyphics hint at the beliefs and lifestyle of ancient Egyptians. Proceed to your Nile cruise ship for check-in and a welcome lunch. Join an excursion to the Luxor Library and Heritage Center, where the city’s past is preserved and shared in engaging exhibits. Enjoy an onboard dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5
Luxor, Egypt:
Relax over breakfast, or (weather permitting) join an optional early-morning hot air balloon ride over Luxor’s temples and monuments. Marvel at breathtaking views of an ancient city, the surrounding desert sands and the magnificent Nile. Later, head to the Nile’s west bank to visit the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs were entombed deep in the hillsides, and the Valley of the Queens, resting place of pharaohs’ wives. Here you enjoy Privileged Access to the tomb of Queen Nefertari, an exquisitely preserved tomb only a few visitors get to see. Among the sites is the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female rulers and most successful pharaohs. Return to your ship as we set sail for Qena; lunch and dinner are served on board as we cruise along the spectacular Nile. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6
Qena, Egypt:
This morning’s excursion takes you to the sprawling complex of Dendera. Remarkably, its fascinating Temple of Hathor was built not by the ancient Egyptians, but by Ptolemies and Romans in classic Egyptian style. During your tour, walk through its towering stone gate to view the columns and hieroglyphics of some of Egypt’s best preserved structures. Return to your ship after a guided visit. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7
Esna, Egypt:
Disembark at Esna today to explore the red sandstone Temple of Khnum. In the 1st-century Hypostyle Hall, admire its 24 columns, 6 across and 4 deep, each topped by a differently designed, intricately carved floral capital. As you explore, be sure to examine the hieroglyphics depicting Roman emperors making offerings to the gods. After a guided tour, use your free time to take in more of this fascinating site on your own. Alternatively, head to Esna Village on foot for a full tour of the town and its lively market scene. View the temple remains and stroll the covered street market, where you can witness an array of colorful fabrics. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8
Aswan, Egypt:
Awake in Aswan this morning, Egypt’s bustling market city. Today, you can choose to visit the Aswan High Dam, visit a local market and take a scenic Nile cruise on a felucca, a traditional Egyptian wooden sailboat. Or join an optional excursion to Abu Simbel to admire the Great Temple of Ramses II, Egypt’s longest-ruling pharaoh. It is dominated by 4 colossal statues, 60 feet high and directly facing the rising sun. The statues are all of Ramses, with his queen and daughters at his feet. Moved from its original location near Aswan to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, it was built as a tribute to the deities and Ramses II’s favorite wife, Nefertari. Make the most of your overnight stay with an optional sound and light show at Philae Temple, and discover the legend of Goddess Isis and God Osiris. Afterward, return to your ship for dinner on board and spend the night in Aswan. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9
Aswan, Egypt:
After breakfast, receive a warm welcome at a Nubian village, where you visit the elementary school and are invited into a local home to get a glimpse of day-to-day life. Then, visit Philae Temple—the small, elegant Temple of Isis, rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser that submerged Philae Island. This temple is one of the Nubian monuments that comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Have lunch on board as you enjoy scenic cruising along the Nile. Disembark later to explore Kom Ombo. Here, enjoy a guided tour of the unusual double temple dedicated to the sky god Haroeris and the crocodile god Sobek, a protective deity thought to have created the world. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10
Edfu, Egypt:
This morning, ride in a horse-drawn calèche, or carriage, to the Temple of Horus. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god of light, it was built in Edfu during the Ptolemaic Dynasty. This is another of Egypt’s best preserved temples, fronted by a massive wall whose entrance is flanked by 2 falcon statues. Or, you can choose to visit Edfu market with our resident chef and hear him explain this evening’s planned tasting menu. Enjoy more Nile cruising today, marveling at the lush green riverbanks backed by hills of desert sands. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11
Luxor, Egypt:
Early this morning, disembark in Luxor and head for the airport for your flight back to Cairo. Check in to the first-class Cairo Citystars Hotel (or similar) for 1 night and enjoy a buffet-style lunch, followed by free time, or take an optional tour to the Coptic Quarter and Jewish Synagogue. Return to your hotel and later enjoy dinner and an evening at leisure. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12
Cairo, Egypt:
After breakfast, proceed to the airport for your return flight. Or, extend your journey for 4 nights in Jordan to see the ‟lost city” of Petra. (Breakfast)
Yukon- All The Yukon Sights
Discover what makes the Yukon unlike any other place in the world!
This ancient territory has been home to Indigenous peoples for approximately 12,000 years as well as being home to some of the great adventures and adventurers that became building blocks in our nation’s history.
With a permanent population of only 40,000 people (and 70,000 moose), the Yukon is very sparse, but it is its natural beauty that is so appealing and acts as a magnet for thousands of tourists every year.
Join us on our unforgettable Yukon adventure!
Book worry-free! Your deposit is fully refundable (less a $50 admin fee) up to 65 days prior to departure. Call us for details!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to the Yukon!
Upon arrival at the Whitehorse International Airport, you will be greeted by your new best friend and local Tour Director. Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly, your Tour Director will be with you from arrival to departure to answer any questions you have and to help ensure your Yukon visit is smooth, fun, and full of Yukon nuggets!
You will receive assistance with your luggage onto the private motor coach that features large viewing windows, comfy seating, and a washroom on board. Once the group is on board your Tour Director will point out the lay of the city and surrounding wilderness landscape on your way to your downtown accommodations.
You will be pre-registered and checked in at the Best Western Gold Rush Inn centrally located on historic Main Street, Whitehorse. On arrival you will pick up your room key and directions to your upgraded accommodations where you will find a special welcome package full of goodies, local contact, and emergency numbers. Your hotel features an elevator, 24hr front desk, onsite restaurant-lounge, free Wi-Fi, on site spa and laundry facilities.
Depending on your arrival time you will have some time to unpack, freshen-up, and get acquainted with your room, before joining your group and tour director for an orientation, answer questions, and give a run-through of the experiences and adventures in the coming days. (For late evening arrivals, the orientation will occur the morning of Day 2).
Day 2
Start your day off with a Gold Rush Breakfast included with your hotel stay, to fuel up for the exciting activities ahead.
After breakfast you will enjoy a private guided tour of Yukon’s Capital City. Some leisure walking from site to site and transport on board your private motor coach for longer distances. With approximately thirty-thousand friendly and adventurous residents, the population of Whitehorse continues to grow, supported by the multi-levels of Government and robust industries of mining and tourism. There remain many preserved sites and evidence of the Gold Rush reminding us of the small-town charm, nestled in the middle of a vast wilderness. Nicknamed ‘The Wilderness City’ you will quickly see why on this tour as you get acquainted with our historic city flanking the Yukon River on the traditional territory of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council. On your tour you will stop by some famous sites like a restored sternwheeler, the S.S. Klondike, now a National Historic Site and a ‘Skyscraper’ completely made of logs!
In the afternoon you will journey up the Alaska Highway before turning off to your next stop – the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. This large naturally landscaped wildlife Preserve hosts many of the Yukon’s birds and animals such as bison, elk, moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, arctic foxes, caribou, lynx, and muskox! On your fully guided private tour you will hear interesting fun facts about all the animals and visit each enclosure for closer viewing opportunities.
After enjoying your visit at the Preserve you will journey a bit further into the wilderness to the newly rebuilt Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs where you can relax in the hot springs’ mineral water while soaking in the beauty of the mountains around you. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit and a towel!
Once back at your hotel you can freshen up and perhaps take a stroll down to Main Street, enjoy the local shops and restaurants where it is not uncommon to stumble upon live, local music. Be sure to visit the Millennium Trail along the Yukon River for a beautiful summer walk. Perhaps visit Lumel’s Glassblowing Studio dubbed the “Happy Factory” and try your hand at glass blowing.
Overnight stay at the Best Western Gold Rush Inn Whitehorse, upgraded room.
Day 3
Enjoy your Gold Rush Breakfast and prepare for your adventure ahead.
Today you will head out west on the famous Alaska Highway for a full day trip to Kluane National Park and the village of Haines Junction. Kluane is the largest National Park in Canada and a World UNESCO Heritage site, home to Mount Logan, the tallest mountain in Canada, and the largest non-polar ice fields on Earth.
*flightseeing may be available at an additional cost. You will stop at the village of Dakwäkäda (Haines Junction) and visit the Kluane National Park Visitor Centre and the Da Kų Cultural Centre where you will learn more about the First Nations of this precious region. You will also visit Kathleen Lake in the Park itself where you will be immersed by stunning views and majestic mountains. You can stretch your legs along the lakeshore and take in the views at the picnic site, or if you are feeling active, you can take a short hike for some elevated scenery. Your tour director will be with you at all times and provide opportunities for some unforgettable pictures and possible wildlife viewing.
After your amazing day visiting Kluane National Park you will enjoy the scenic wilderness drive back to Whitehorse to your hotel.
Perhaps grab dinner at ‘The Gold Pan Lounge’ in your hotel which features a curated blend of carefully sourced menu that is ‘Yukon’ and ‘Social’ in theme.
Overnight stay at Best Western Gold Rush Inn Whitehorse, upgraded room.
Day 4
You are welcome to enjoy another Gold Rush Breakfast before departing on today’s adventure. You will join your private group and Tour Director on a scenic, relaxing drive south on the Alaska Highway, and then join the South Klondike Highway enroute to the traditional territory of the Carcross Tagish First Nation and the iconic village of Carcross situated on the shores of historic Lake Bennett. A photographer’s paradise of diverse landscapes where you will hear about local history, the majestic coastal mountain ranges, and the vast southern lake river systems.
You will stop at Emerald Lake with its famous turquoise waters, as well as visit the Carcross Desert, known as the world’s smallest desert. You are also in for a real treat as you visit Caribou Crossing Trading Post and try your luck Panning for Gold! No trip to the Yukon is complete without trying your luck at panning for the elusive gold nugget! BBQ lunch is provided as you enjoy the beautiful mountain vistas and crisp clean air.
On to the village of Carcross, where you will stop by the Visitors Centre, tour the turn of the century White Pass & Yukon Rail Station, and view the historic buildings and shops along the shores of Lake Bennett. The Carcross Commons is the centre of it all and host to a seasonal local artist’s market and food stalls. No visit is complete without a stop for an ice cream or coffee.
You will be dropped off at your hotel in the early evening. With summer providing extra-long daylight hours you’ll find locals out and about enjoying the long days taking in arts, cultural and music events.
Overnight stay at the Best Western Gold Rush Inn Whitehorse, upgraded room.
Day 5
After your Gold Rush Breakfast get your camera ready for a full day of experiencing Klondike Gold Rush history.
Today’s journey takes you to Fraser BC on the wilderness border of Alaska where you will get aboard the famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This is truly one of the world’s most beautiful historic train journeys and a tour highlight. This excursion will take you winding around mountains and through crystal blue lakes, over the White Pass Summit and into the historic gold rush port of Skagway, Alaska. You will ride in a comfortable restored or replica passenger coach car which is equipped with a restroom for your convenience.
After a short layover in Skagway, where you will find shops, photo opportunities, and snacks, you will meet your group and Tour Director to board your private motor coach for the trip back to Whitehorse. On the drive back your Tour Director and driver will keep a sharp eye out to make sure to point out any wildlife crossing your path. A fun game is to try to count the number of waterfalls – there are many!
To celebrate your visit with us in the Yukon we invite you to join us for a special Yukon sourced farewell dinner. The local chef is a real pro at pulling together Yukon ingredients and ensuring your menu is something you’ll want more of.
Overnight stay at the Best Western Gold Rush Inn Whitehorse, upgraded room.
Day 6
Sadly, your Yukon adventure has come to an end.
You will be escorted back to the Whitehorse Airport by your tour director with your private group transfer and luggage assistance.
We hope you had a fantastic time and that you will visit again!
Itinerary subject to change.
Out of province medical insurance is mandatory for this tour.
Hotel Information
Best Western Gold Rush Inn Whitehorse
Hotel Address
411 Main StWhitehorse, YT
Y1A 2B6
(867) 668-4500
Tahitian Legends – Papeete to Papeete with Oceania Cruises
Oceania is a small-ship PREMIUM BOUTIQUE CRUISE LINE with destination-oriented itineraries, often travelling to smaller ports that megaships cannot reach. Noted throughout the industry for their gourmet cuisine, you will find a variety of onboard dining venues with no surcharges. The price includes your cruise, airfare from Ottawa (other cities are available), transfers, free wifi onboard and all taxes. PLUS you get to choose one of three options for free – EITHER- shore excursions; OR a shipboard credit; OR their House Select beverage package. Oceania’s focus on service ensures that you will be cared for and cared about while you cruise.
This cruise sails on Oceania Regatta (684 guests)
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa on your flight(s) to Papeete.
Flights are booked by Oceania – schedule available approximately 75 days prior to sailing. (D)
Day 2
Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia
(Boarding time 1pm, depart 5 am Tuesday)
In Papeete, you will be met at the arrivals gate by your Oceania representative and transferred to the ship. There will be no Travac representative escorting you, but Oceania will ensure that your transfer and boarding goes smoothly.
The island of Tahiti’s urban center has much to offer visitors. Take a stroll through the new Jardins Paofai, watch the surfers on their longboards, marvel at Faarumai Waterfalls, The Blowhole, Fern Grottos. (D)
Day 3
Moorea, French Polynesia
(8 am – 4 pm)
Breathtakingly beautiful, stunning landscapes await, from the verdant mountains to the azure seas and white sand beaches. Take a canoe ride through the lagoon; snorkel, scuba or helmet-dive the reefs, or hike up to the Afareaitu Waterfalls. (B, L, D)
Day 4
Fakarava, French Polynesia
(8am – 6pm)
Pure, pristine and dreamlike, the ecosystem of this gorgeous island is home to extremely rare birds, plants and crustaceans. Quaint villages, old coral churches and welcoming people are intertwined with a spectacular lagoon creating a paradise like none other in the world. (B, L, D)
Day 5
Cruising the South Pacific
(B, L, D)
Day 6
Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia
(8am – 6pm)
Visit the entrancing Vaipo Waterfalls and Cascade Tevaipo, which is one of the world’s tallest falls at over 1,100 feet. Wander the black sand beaches, marvel at the giant tiki at Piki Vehini, or get adventurous on an all-terrain vehicle excursion around the craggy island.. (B, L, D)
Day 7
Cruising the South Pacific.
(B, L, D)
Day 8
Rangiroa, French Polynesia
(8am – 5pm)
Stunning, beautiful, this South Pacific atoll is a “natural aquarium,” its lagoon filled with colorful undersea life. Visit the pearl farms, dive with manta rays, explore the atoll’s unique winery or just choose a calming respite on a pink sand beach. (B, L, D)
Day 9
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
(arrive 1 pm)
The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world. Snorkel, swim with the manta rays or enjoy an outrigger canoe ride through the lagoon and its lovely coral islands. (B, L, D)
Day 10
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
(depart 7pm)
(B, L, D)
Day 11
Raiatea, French Polynesia
(8am – 6pm)
You’ll notice the rich scent of vanilla the moment you step off the ship onto this stunning island, with its vanilla plantations scattered throughout. Visit one or two, visit a pearl farm, snorkel the clear waters of the surrounding reef, or take a kayak trip along the Faaroa River. (B, L, D)
Day 12
Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia
After breakfast, Oceania will transfer you from the ship to the airport for your flights home. (B)
Japanese Immersion – Tokyo to Tokyo with Oceania Cruises
Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Japan
Oceania is a small-ship PREMIUM BOUTIQUE CRUISE LINE with destination-oriented itineraries, often travelling to smaller ports that megaships cannot reach. Noted throughout the industry for their gourmet cuisine, you will find a variety of onboard dining venues with no surcharges. The price includes your cruise, airfare from Ottawa (other cities are available), transfers, free wifi onboard and all taxes. PLUS you get to choose one of three options for free – EITHER- shore excursions; OR a shipboard credit; OR their House Select beverage package. Oceania’s focus on service ensures that you will be cared for and cared about while you cruise.
This cruise sails on Oceania Nautica (684 guests).
As of 26 August 2021: Limited availability on this cruise with many cabin categories waitlisted. Early booking is needed to secure a cabin; deposit of $1000 per person is fully refundable until 22 November 2022.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Ottawa on your flight(s) to Toyko.
Flights are booked by Oceania – schedule available approximately 75 days prior to sailing. (D)
Day 2
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
(Boarding time 1pm; Departure 9pm)
In Tokyo, you will be met at the arrivals gate by your Oceania representative and transferred to the ship. There will be no Travac representative escorting you, but Oceania will ensure that your transfer and boarding goes smoothly.
Dazzling cityscapes await your exploration; visit Asakusa for the bright lights, street fairs and Senso-ji Temple; the Tsukiji Market, the largest open-air fish market in the world with on-the-spot sushi; and the Imperial Palace’s East Garden for some calm. Spend some time in the bright, active Ginza District, where the night comes alive. (D)
Day 3
Nagoya, Japan
(10am – 7pm)
A center of modern commerce, yet steeped in ancient history; visit the castle in the center of town, its golden orca statues are a symbol of the city. Explore Toyota’s Museum of Technology and tour the Noritake factory, where bargains on the fine china can be found. (B, L, D)
Day 4
Kyoto (Kobe), Japan
(arrive 12 pm)
Visit the breathtaking temples and shrines of Japan’s old imperial capital, Kyoto, or explore ancient Nara, the cradle of Japanese arts, literature and crafts, with its magnificent shrines and temples that predate Kyoto’s. Stroll through Nara Park, famed for its deer and impressive Kasuga Grand Shrine. Then travel on to Osaka and its famed castle. In Kobe, visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tile. (B, L, D)
Day 5
Kyoto, Japan
(depart 7pm)
(B, L, D)
Day 6
Hiroshima, Japan
(8am – 5pm)
Visit the skeletal A-Bomb Dome, the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and the statue dedicated to the children who died after the atomic bomb was dropped on this city in 1945. Stroll through beautifully landscaped Hiroshima Gardens, visit the rebuilt Hiroshima Castle or journey to the exquisite sacred island of Miyajima and see the extraordinary Itsukushima Shrine. (B, L, D)
Day 7
Busan, South Korea
(11am – 8pm)
From trendy cafes and famous fish markets to sacred temples and traditional tea ceremonies, Busan, the second largest city in South Korea is bursting with flavors and culture. Take a walk in the relaxing Yongdusan Park while admiring the various species of trees and a view of the Busan Tower. At the Hongbeopsa farming temple, explore the renowned large Buddha statues at the Main Buddha Hall while walking along a water lily path, or experience a traditional Korean tea ceremony conducted by one of their monks. (B, L, D)
Day 8
Nagasaki, Japan
(8am – 5pm)
Discover remnants of old Nagasaki beside the modern city. Visit the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. Or travel to Arita, home of magnificent Japanese ceramics, and tour famous Kakiemon Kiln, which continues a 400-year-old tradition. Experience feudal Japan and the natural wonders of Shimabara Peninsula with its volcanoes and hot springs. (B, L, D)
Day 9
Hososhima, Japan
(10am – 8pm)
Hososhima is located in Hyuga City, the center of the coastal region of eastern Kyushu. To get a sense of its tradition and culture, visit the historical museum at Old Takanabe-ya Inn, which was built in 1921 and kept in its original state. Near the museum are the lovely Myokoku-ji Gardens and the Mihoko Shrine, where the legend of Emperor Jinmu lives on. Hososhima is home to Cape Hyuga with its spectacular view of the ocean and land coming together, as well as the Omi Shrine, a place believed to be flowing with mystical energy. (B, L, D)
Day 10
Kochi, Japan
(7am – 4pm)
Not the typical Japanese city, small and compact Kochi has gained a well-deserved reputation for its exuberant, easy-going spirit and vibrant food scene. The city is the birthplace of the legendary samurai Sakamoto Ryoma, who created an alliance that eventually brought down the Tokugawa shogunate and is now commemorated in a memorial museum. In the city center, don’t miss the well-preserved hilltop Kochi Castle to explore the grounds where the city was established in 1601. You might continue your downtown explorations at one of the many pedestrian shopping arcades or at a restaurant to try Kochi’s most famous dish – katsuo-no-tataki, a savory dish of grilled, ponzu-marinated skipjack tuna or bonito fish. (B, L, D)
Day 11
Shimizu, Japan
(11am – 8 pm)
In the shadow of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is one of the most beautiful ports in Japan. Walk through the pine groves of Miho, home to a 650-year-old Japanese black pine, or enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the lush, forested hill of Nihondaira. Take in the seascapes on a bay cruise, or learn of undersea delights at Japan’s first sushi museum. For a historic angle, get a glimpse at feudal life in Japan in 200 BC at the archaeological site of Toro. (B, L, D)
Day 12
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
After breakfast, Oceania will transfer you from the ship to the airport for your flights home. (B)
Radiant Alaska – Seattle to Seattle with Oceania Cruises
Oceania is a small-ship PREMIUM BOUTIQUE CRUISE LINE with destination-oriented itineraries, often travelling to smaller ports that megaships cannot reach. Noted throughout the industry for their gourmet cuisine, you will find a variety of onboard dining venues with no surcharges. The price includes your cruise, airfare from Ottawa (other cities are available), transfers, free wifi onboard and all taxes. PLUS you get to choose one of three options for free – EITHER- shore excursions; OR a shipboard credit; OR their House Select beverage package. Oceania’s focus on service ensures that you will be cared for and cared about while you cruise.
This cruise sails on Oceania Regatta (684 guests).
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Seattle, Washington
(Embark 1pm, Depart 5pm)
In Seattle you will be met at the arrivals gate by your Oceania representative and transferred to the ship. There will be no Travac representative escorting you, but Oceania will ensure that your transfer and boarding goes smoothly.
Flights are booked by Oceania – schedule available approximately 75 days prior to sailing. (D)
Day 2
Cruising the Inside Passage
(B, L, D)
Day 3
Ketchikan, Alaska
(9am – 5pm)
Totem poles are one of Ketchikan’s chief attractions, and the best places to view them are Saxman Village and Totem Bight State Park. Drop by the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center to learn about the local cultures and ecosystems. (B, L, D)
Day 4
Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Alaska
(12pm – 8pm)
Hoonah means “where the north wind doesn’t blow” in the language of the Tlingit Indians, who make up about 70% of the population of this village on the lee side of Chichagof Island. However, wildlife outnumbers everyone, so watch for bears, eagles and humpback whales, which migrate here in the summer. (B, L, D)
Day 5
Cruising Hubbard Glacier
(B, L, D)
Day 6
Juneau, Alaska
(8am – 11pm)
For a state capital, Juneau maintains a surprising small-town charm, in part because it can only be reached by sea or air due to the surrounding wilderness. Collections from the indigenous people are displayed in the Alaska State Museum. Visit Mendenhall Glacier for outdoor adventure. (B, L, D)
Day 7
Skagway, Alaska
(7am – 4pm)
Skagway’s spectacular natural setting encourages a walking tour of this well-preserved gold rush town. See the Moore House, built in 1897, a year before the gold rush, and the Gold Rush Cemetery, where famed Old West desperado Soapy Smith is buried. Visit the Trail of ’98 Museum for a more in-depth look at Skagway’s freewheeling history. Or take a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad and see the trail the gold rushers etched into the high mountain pass. (B, L, D)
Day 8
Sitka, Alaska
(8am – 4pm)
Called “Shee Atika” by the Tlingit Indians, then “New Archangel” by the Russians who ousted them, Sitka boasts a multicultural heritage. Two dozen of its attractions are on the National Register of Historic Places, including Castle Hill and Building 29, a structure built by the Russians in 1835. The Sheldon Jackson Museum exhibits one of Alaska’s oldest native culture collections. (B, L, D)
Day 9
Cruising the Outside Passage
(B, L, D)
Day 10
Victoria, British Columbia
(1 pm – 11pm)
Western Canada’s oldest city, Victoria proudly displays its British heritage. Explore lavish Craigdarroch Castle, built in the late 1800s for a Scottish coal baron. Trace the area’s early British seafarers in the Marine Museum of British Columbia. (B, L, D)
Day 11
Seattle
After breakfast, Oceania will transfer you from the ship to the airport for your flights home. (B)
Itinerary subject to change.
Maritimes- Prince Edward Island and Beaches
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Your flight will leave early morning for Prince Edward Island. Upon your arrival into Charlottetown, you will be free to explore and have lunch before being transferred to The Rodd Crowbush Golf and Beach Resort.
Overnight – Rodd Crowbush
Day 2
Your day is free to explore the area, if you are a golfer you may want to play a round or relax at the beach, the choice is yours.
Overnight-Rodd Crowbush (B)
Day 3
After breakfast, your motorcoach will be waiting with a step on guide for a full day tour of PEI’s spectacular attractions. Your tour will include historic Charlottetown. Visit the Prince Edward Island Preserve Company where you can sample the many jams and jellies made on site and browse the beautifully decorated gift shop. A visit to Anne of Green Gables Museum the house in which L.M. Montgomery married Rev. Ewan Macdonald. Your tour will take you to Green Gables Heritage Place, explore the farmhouse and homestead, take a stroll through the surrounding wooded trails and visit Anne’s Boutique. The tour will take you through PEI National Park, where you will have an opportunity to take beautiful photos of the pink sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Visit the harbour in North Rustico where you will learn about the lobster fishing industry of PEI. Your tour will also include a visit to Matos Winery where you can take in some wine sampling.
Overnight-Rodd Charlottetown (B)
Day 4
Free day to explore on your own. You may want to visit Lieutenant Governor’s Mansion. For the history buff you may want to visit Province House to walk the halls our forefathers once did and see where our country was born.
Overnight-Rodd Charlottetown (B)
Day 5
Another free day to explore and shop. Today is market day in Charlottetown.
Overnight-Rodd Charlottetown (B)
Day 6
After breakfast you will be transferred to the Charlottetown airport for your flight back to Ottawa.
Itinerary and attractions subject to change due to Covid.
On your free days your Travac Tours Director will have ideas and optional tours ($).
Hotel Information
Rodd Crowbush
Hotel Address
6323 Lakeside RoadMorell, PEI
C0A 1S0
902-961-5600
Rodd Hotel Charlottetown
Hotel Address
75 Kent StreetCharlottetown, PEI
C1A 7K4
902-894-7311