What to look forward to in Greece and Italy!

Athens, Sorrento, Rome, Florence & Venice: 
March 9-21, 2011

Get ready for a Mediterranean odyssey!  Upon arrival in Athens you'll explore the city that's considered to be the birthplace of democracy.  Stroll through the historic Plaka district, visit the Archaeological Museum, and explore the Acropolis.  One of antiquity's most splendid group of monuments, you'll tour the magnificent Parthenon, Theatre of Dionysus, the Temple to Athena and the Agora.

Delphi was considered by the ancient Greeks to be the "navel of the earth" and where Zeus appointed the sacred valley as the centre of the ancient world.  As such, the remote site became home to the Pythian Oracle and today is a rich archaeological site.  You'll see the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Theatre, Stadium and the impressive museum.

Arrive in Italy and travel to the jewel of the Amalfi coast: Sorrento.  A famous resort town situated on spectacular cliffs across the bay from the beautiful island of Capri, Sorrento is a perfect location to relax and soak up the fantastic Italian sunshine!  Not far away is Pompeii, where you'll tour the incredible ruins of the ancient town, which was destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption in AD 79 . Two-thirds of the city have now been excavated and provide a fascinating insight into urban life during the height of the Roman Empire.  You'll also have the chance to hike up Mount Vesuvius, the same volcano that destroyed Pompeii and gaze into the crater.

Rome is where you'll soak up the hustle and bustle that defines modern Italian life.  A true metropolis, Rome spans centuries and is a fascinating blend of antiquity and modernity.  Visit the Colosseum and Forum -- see the spot where Julius Caesar was assassinated!  Not to be missed is Vatican City, where you'll see the splendors of St. Peter's Basilica, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and the treasures of the museum.

Depart Rome and travel through the scenic countryside of Umbia and Tuscany, before arriving in the heart of Florence. The city most associated with the Renaissance, Florence is breathtaking.  Tour the Cathedral with its famous "Duomo" and the octagonal Baptistry known for its bronze Door of Paradise.  Don't forget to check out the leather market!

And no trip to Italy is complete without Venice -- "La Serenissima"!  Travel down the Grand Canal by water taxi to St. Mark's Square where you'll find the Doge's Palace, San Marco Cathedral, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.  Watch out for the pigeons!  Stroll along the winding streets and over the labyrinth of bridges that define Venice and visit S. John's, St. Paul's Square and the Rialto Bridge.

Bid Ciao to Italy and return to Vancouver with some amazing memories!