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SICILY Crossroads of Civilizations March 26-April 3, 2015

Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

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Page 1: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

Sicily crossroads of civi l izations

March 26-April 3, 2015

Page 2: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

Lipari

Cover: The magnificent Greek theater at Taormina

Dear Traveler,

Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted colonists, conquerors, and visitors from Europe, Africa, and Asia since the earliest times. The Carthaginians and Arabs came from the south; the Greeks from the east; the Romans from the north; and the Normans from the west. You can still find traces of these ancient and medieval civilizations in Sicily’s language, cuisine, and traditions, but their greatest gift to Sicily and the Mediterranean world was a legacy of glorious works of art and architecture. Where else in Europe will you find intact Doric temples within sight of a luxurious Roman villa? Or a spectacular church designed by Norman architects and decorated by Arab and Byzantine artists? In Sicily the great artistic achievements of the ages met and mingled—and you can find them throughout the island to this day.

Every destination on this cruise is extraordinary. Atop a long cliff at Agrigento you’ll find the remains of ancient Greek temples, including the perfectly preserved Temple of Concordia. At Taormina you’ll follow the cobblestoned streets up to the Greek theater: carved into the edge of Mount Tauro, it offers breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the sea. In the little town of Noto you’ll encounter a baroque gem built of golden sandstone, where the facade of almost every building is embellished with sculptures of gods and nymphs, mythical beasts, and saints and angels. Then there is Monreale, a medieval town outside Palermo where the Norman kings of Sicily built an incredible cathedral. The stark exterior gives no hint of the glories within, where almost 21,000 square feet of golden mosaics cover the walls and ceilings. At Syracuse walk across the bridge to the Old Town on Ortygia Island, where you’ll find ancient Greek and medieval monuments on every street. And amid the hills of western Sicily you’ll discover the great Temple of Segesta, one of the finest and best-preserved Doric temples in the world.

Our ship for this Sicilian voyage is Harmony G, accommodating just 42 guests. Her small size allows us to visit ports inaccessible by larger ships and affords an intimate atmosphere of like-minded travelers. Here is a cruise that brings you the very best of Sicily—great sites you’ve always heard of, as well as little, out-of-the-way treasures you’ll never forget. Join us aboard Harmony G and discover for yourself why this island is called the “Crossroads of Civilizations.”

Sincerely,

Vasos N. Papagapitos Co-President

Page 3: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

Segesta’s Greek temple

Page 4: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

I t I n e r a r y

Syracuse’s captivating Old Town

Thursday, March 26, 2015USAFly from the U.S. to Catania, Sicily, Italy.

Friday, March 27CATANIA, Sicily, Italy | SYRACUSE | EMBARKArrive in Catania, transfer to Syracuse, and embark Harmony G. Overnight aboard ship docked in Syracuse.

Saturday, March 28SYRACUSE | NOTO | SYRACUSEColonized by the Greeks in the 8th century b.c., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world. Discover the 15,000-seat Greek theater, among the most impressive to survive from antiquity, and the elliptical Roman amphitheater, followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon, walk the winding lanes of Syracuse’s Old Town and explore the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Arethusa, and the Cathedral, which incorporates the remains of the famed Temple of Athena, or alternatively, visit Noto, a Baroque jewel of a town situated in a plateau surrounded by olive and almond groves.

Sunday, March 29MESSINA | TAORMINA | MESSINAFrom Messina, visit Taormina, which clings to the edge of Mount Tauro and looks out to sea and the dramatic cone of Mount Etna. A Greek colony was founded here in 403 b.c. and prospered throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Visit the magnificent Greek theater before time exploring on your own. (B, L, D)

Monday, March 30LIPARI, Aeolian IslandsArrive at the pumice slopes of Lipari, one of the seven islands of the Aeolian Archipelago, the mythological home of Aeolus, the god of the winds. Dominating the twin-harbor town of Lipari is a 16th-century Norman castle-turned-archaeological museum on the site of an ancient acropolis. (B, L, D)

Tuesday, March 31PALERMO | MONREALE | PALERMOFrom a long, rich, and varied history, Palermo has inherited a tremendous artistic legacy. A morning tour includes the church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, commonly called the Martorana, noted for its beautiful mosaics; and the glorious Cappella Palatina, one of Italy’s finest works of art. In the afternoon, travel to the medieval town of Monreale to visit its famed Norman cathedral and elegant cloister. The interior contains a magnificent series of mosaics. Return to Palermo. (B, L, D)

Wednesday, April 1MARSALA | ERICE | SEGESTA or SELINUNTE | MARSALADrive up winding roads to the medieval town of Erice, known for its temple to the fertility goddess, Astarte, and its 12th-century Venus Castle. Continue on to Segesta for a visit to its magnificent Doric temple, built in 420 b.c. and among the best-preserved ancient Greek sites. Alternatively, visit Selinunte, situated on a highland overlooking the sea which provides a tranquil setting for the expansive ruins of what was once among the island’s most progressive cities. (B, L, D)

Thursday, April 2LICATA | AGRIGENTO or PIAZZA ARMERINA | LICATAEnjoy a visit to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, whose Doric temples are among Sicily’s most captivating Greek ruins. Marvel at the 6th-century b.c. Temple of Hercules, the remarkably preserved Temple of Concordia, and the graceful Temple of Juno. Also admire the Archaeological Museum’s superb collection. Alternately, an excursion will lead to Piazza Armerina to explore the Roman Villa at Casale. One of the best-preserved Roman country houses, the villa is famed for its mosaic pavements and is considered one of the most outstanding monuments of the Roman period. (B, L, D)

Friday, April 3SYRACUSE | DISEMBARK | CATANIA | FLY TO USADisembark and transfer to the airport in Catania for return flights to the U.S. (B, L, D)

For rese rva t ions o r i n fo rmat ion , p lease ca l l us a t 800-257-5767 . www.Trave lDynamics .com

Page 5: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

C r U I S e , L e a r n , & e n J O yGail Cornell is an architectural historian and adjunct faculty

member of New York University and Hunter College. A graduate

of Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design, where she

received a Master’s Degree in Architectural History and Theory,

she has lectured about architecture on international study

tours for over 15 years with a focus on the rich architectural

history of the countries bordering the Mediterranean. Gail has

been a frequent study leader on tours for The Smithsonian

and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, as well as

other organizations. She resides in New York City where she

teaches, speaks and writes about architecture, as well as

leads architectural walking tours of the city.

The medieval town of Erice

For rese rva t ions o r i n fo rmat ion , p lease ca l l us a t 800-257-5767 . www.Trave lDynamics .com

Page 6: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

C r U I S e , L e a r n , & e n J O y d e C k p L a nH a r M O n y GHarmony G is a sleek, modern small cruise ship, launched in 2001 and renovated in 2009/10, with accommodations for 42 guests. All 21 cabins feature a private bathroom with shower, TV, music channels, mini-refrigerator, telephone, and safe. They are equipped with either two twin-size beds or one queen-size bed, depending on the specific cabin or category. Life on board centers around the indoor/outdoor lounge and bar on the Upper Deck. The interior lounge has comfortable seating where you can gaze out of the large windows onto the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a drink and conversation, read, or watch satellite TV. The dining room, located on the Main Deck, is surrounded by large windows providing beautiful views of the ports of call while it accommodates all guests at one single seating. The Sun Deck, with sun chairs and loungers, is an ideal place to bask in the sun and open air or to relax in a shaded outdoor area. The swimming platform at the stern enables you to swim directly from the ship when weather and anchorage conditions permit. Harmony G complies with Eurosolas safety regulations while its twin stabilizers allow for comfortable cruising.

Sun Deck

A typical cabin

CrU ISe & Land rateS per person, double occupancy

category description rate

DLocated on the Lower Deck and feature two twin beds and large porthole. ( One cabin has a double bed; two cabin s have a third, upper berth.)

$6,695

CLocated on the Main Deck and feature two twin beds and large window.

$7,395

BLocated on the Main Deck and feature two twin beds and large window.

$7,995

ALocated on the Upper Deck and feature two twin beds or one double bed and large window.

$8,695

Single oCCupAnCy: A limited number of cabins have been designated for single travelers in Categories B, C, and D at a supplement to the per person, double occupancy rates indicated above. Singles rates (per person) are $8,490 in Category D; $9,190 in Category C; $9,790 in Category B.

Page 7: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

p r O G r a M I n C L U S I O n SIncluded■ Voyage aboard the 42-guest Harmony G■ All tours and excursions■ Welcome and farewell receptions

and dinners■ All meals aboard ship including

breakfast, lunch, and dinner■ Enrichment program of lectures and

discussions■ Comprehensive pre-departure materials■ Transfers and baggage handling abroad

on the designated arrival and departure dates

■ Gratuities to porters, guides, and drivers■ Professional Travel Dynamics

International tour staff■ Port charges and taxes

Not Included■ Airfare■ Visa and passport fees (if applicable)■ Trip cancellation and baggage insurance■ Meals and beverages other than those

specified above ■ Personal expenses aboard

(such as laundry, telephone, Internet)■ Gratuities to shipboard personnel

Air ReservationsAirfare is not included in the Cruise and Land Rates. To make your air reservations, please contact your preferred airline, travel agent, or our tour operator’s air desk toll-free at 1-877-711-9896 Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (EST).

R e g i s t R at i o n TDII 15601

Dr./Mr./Mrs./Ms. First Last

Dr./Mr./Mrs./Ms. First Last

aDDress

City/state/Zip

teLephone (Day) (evening)

e-MaiL

Each participant must sign below: I/We have read the “General Information” section and agree to its terms.

signature Date

signature Date

general informationPayment Schedule: A deposit of $1,500 per person is required to reserve your space on the tour. For your convenience, you may charge your deposit to your American Express, Visa, Discover, or MasterCard. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Credit cards are not accepted for final payment. However, personal checks are accepted for both deposits and final payment.

cancellationS & RefundS: All cancellations are subject to a $300 per person fee. In addition, cancellations received 61-90 days prior to departure will be assessed a penalty equal to 50% of the total program cost per person. Cancellations received within 60 days of departure are subject to 100% cancellation penalties.

inSuRance: We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance, which is available for coverage of expenses in conjunction with cancellation due to illness or accident. Baggage insurance is also recommended. In the event that you must cancel your participation in a travel program, trip cancellation insurance may be the only source of reimbursement.

itineRaRy: The itinerary, accommodations, and arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of Travel Dynamics International Ltd.

ReSPonSibility: Please read carefully the following terms and conditions, which constitute the sole, legally enforceable agreements between the passenger and Travel Dynamics International Ltd. and the tour’s sponsoring organization. The passenger is also advised to review his/her separate ticket passage contract with the vessel’s owner/operator, which will constitute the sole, legally enforceable terms of carriage for this cruise and is available on request from Travel Dynamics International Ltd. Travel Dynamics International Ltd. and the tour’s sponsoring organization act solely as agents for the passenger with respect to all transportation, hotel and other tour arrangements. In that capacity, we exercise all reasonable care possible to ensure the passenger’s safety and satisfaction, but, we neither assume nor bear any responsibility or liability for any injury, death, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity arising in connection with the services of any ship, airplane, train, automobile, motor coach, carriage or other conveyance, or the actions of any third-party, involved in carrying the passenger or in affecting these tours. We are not responsible for damages, additional expenses, or any other losses due to cancellation, delay or other changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, civil disturbances, acts or threats of terrorism, travel warnings or bans, termination or suspension of war risks or other carrier insurance, quarantine, acts of God or other causes beyond our control. All such losses must be borne by the passenger, and tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. In the event of cancellation, delay or rescheduling mandated by any of the aforesaid causes beyond our control, the passenger shall have the option of accepting in lieu of the original tour such rescheduled tour or other substituted tour(s) as may be offered by us, or else, receiving a refund of as much of such advance tour expenditures as we are able to recover on the passenger’s behalf from carriers, third-party tour vendors, etc., but, we shall not have any obligation or liability to the passenger beyond the foregoing. We reserve the right to make alterations to the tour’s itinerary and to substitute hotels, ships, or lecturers if this is required. We reserve the right to cancel, delay, or reschedule any tour prior to departure, and, so long as this is not due to any of the aforesaid causes beyond our control, the passenger shall be entitled to a full refund of all monies paid to that point if he/she so desires. No refund shall be made for any unused portion of any tour. By forwarding their deposit(s), the passenger certifies that he/she and/or their dependents, minors or others covered thereby do not have any mental, physical or other condition of disability that could create a hazard for them or other passengers. We reserve the right to decline to accept or to decline to retain any person as a member of any tour should such person’s health, condition or actions adversely affect or threaten the welfare or safety of other passengers or impede the tour. Baggage or valuables brought on the tour shall be transported, handled or stored at the passenger’s risk entirely, and, we shall bear no liability or responsibility for any damage or other loss thereto. Passenger tickets are not transferable and are not subject to alteration by the passenger. No suit shall be maintainable against the carrier, or vessel, for any losses, accidents, damages to person, property, personal injury (including death or other types of bodily injury) of the passengers, unless written notice of the claim, with full particulars, is delivered to the carrier or its agents at its office at the port of sailing or at the port of termination within six months from the day when such incident occurred. In no event shall any such suit or any claim against the carrier or vessel for any losses, accidents, damages to person, property, personal injury (including death or other types of bodily injury) of the passenger be maintainable unless such suit is commenced within one year from the day when the incident causing such losses, accidents, damages to person, property, personal injury (including death or other types of bodily injury) of the passenger occurs, notwithstanding any provision of law of any state or country to the contrary. Resolution of any disputes arising hereunder shall be brought within the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, pursuant to the applicable general maritime law, and applying the applicable general maritime law and Federal maritime statutes.

RateS: Tour costs are based upon current airfares, tariffs, and currency values. While we do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, they are subject to change.

fuel SuPPlement: Travel Dynamics International Ltd. reserves the right to charge a fuel supplement, without prior notice, if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $85 per barrel. This supplement may be charged even if the cruise fare has been paid in full.

ShiP’S RegiStRy: Greece CST #204 3599-40 TDI

Enclosed is my check or credit card no. for $______ ($1,500 per person) as a deposit to hold ____ place(s) on Sicily: Crossroads of Civilizations. I understand that final payment is due ninety (90) days prior to departure and is payable by check only.

Please make check payable to and mail with this registration form to: Travel Dynamics International 132 East 70th Street, New York, NY 10021

o AmEx o Discover o Visa o MasterCard

No. ____________________________________

Exp. ________ 3- or 4-Digit Security Code ________

Please select cabin category in order of preference: A__ B__ C__ D__

o Twin Beds o Double Bed

o Single Occupancy o Share (cannot be guaranteed)

Page 8: Sicily - Travel Dynamics International · Sicily, the largest, and perhaps the most magnificent, island in the Mediterranean, has attracted ... and the ormans from the west You can

Sicily: crossroads of civi l izations S icily

crossroads of civi l izations

The elegant cloister of Monreale

TDII 15601

132 East 70th Street, New York, NY 10021

for reservations or information, please contact your travel professional or travel Dynamics international at

212-517-7555 or 800-257-5767 www.travelDynamics.com

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAIDTravel Dynamics

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