Compare Country Roads of the Deep South 2022 Small Group by Insight Vacations vs Cruising Hawaii's Paradise by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 12 days | 11 days |
| Price From | $ 6,000 | $ 4,149 |
| Price Per Day | $ 500 | $ 377 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small ship cruise |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes | N/A |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Airfare included | NA |
| Activities | N/A | N/A |
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description | Fall in love with the Deep South during this 12-Day guided tour. Let the lights and music of Nashville wash over you as you walk down Broadway — then step behind the scenes of a recording studio where you’ll meet a TV star and learn the secrets to recording an album. In Memphis, enjoy a private tour of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, a former record studio where Nashville greats recorded their music. At Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, a Local Expert will lead you on an after-hours tour of the mansion. Embrace Cajun Country in Lafayette: here, you will learn about the origins of Cajun music from a local accordion maker, and take a crawfish farm tour, where a Local Expert will help you catch your lunch. In New Orleans, tour the Tabasco Factory, and walk the city with a Local Expert, who will guide you through its vibrant art scene and unique architecture. |
Please note: For this vacation, the tour operator requires that travelers age 12 and older must provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy), in English, for all vacations. Proof of vaccination must be completed at least 14 days prior to the tour start date. *Exceptions apply to children who do not qualify for vaccination. This new protocol will take effect for international vacations departing July 15, 2021 until further notice. Please click here for more information.
Sailing through the Hawaiian Islands is like sailing through a postcard. On this magical vacation, you'll experience everything from culture-packed city streets to remote mountains and sparkling waterfalls. Enjoy a stay in vibrant Honolulu, then board Norweigan Cruise Line's Pride of America for a 7-night adventure through Maui, Kona, Kauai, and Hilo, "The Big Island!" During your cruise, you'll have tons of opportunities to participate in thrilling aquatic activities, explore the lush rainforests, or simply sunbathe on the warm sand with a drink in hand. During the first leg of your trip in Honolulu, you'll embark on an included excursion to Pearl Harbor's famous Battleship Row, home of the USS Arizona. Learn all about the tragic yet historic Pearl Harbor attack and visit the memorials that commemorate the crewmen who lost their lives. Allow the beautiful scenery to lift your spirits, as you explore Diamond Head and the breathtaking Waikiki coastline. After a memorable stay in Honolulu, you'll board your cruise ship! First stop: Maui, voted the best island in the world! Known for its glistening beaches, cascading waterfalls, charming Hawaiian towns, and hilly green landscapes, Maui is a thrill for the senses. Next, you'll sail on to the Big Island, known for its black-sand beaches, unique lava formations, coffee fields, and the world's most continuously active volcano! Last but not least, you'll visit the stunning islands of Kona and Kauai, two tropical playgrounds of golden beaches and colorful rainforests. So, grab your camera, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to watch your dream vacation come true. |
Day 1: Arrive in Nashville
Welcome to Nashville, the capital of Tennessee and the USA’s glittering centre stage. From the Everly Brothers' “Bye Bye Love," to Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman," the streets are paved with talent. Your airport transfer will whisk you to your hotel.Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and mingling with guests at 18:00 followed by a Welcome Dinner with wine.
Day 2: Take centre stage in Nashville
Start your day with an orientation tour of music city. You'll visit the picturesque Riverfront Park, Tennessee State Capitol and the 132 acre Centennial State Park, where you'll encounter an exact replica of the Parthenon. Pass by the city's lively honky-tonks and street performers on Broadway, as you make your way to the Ryman Auditorium, former home of the Grand Ole Opry. Built in 1885 as a building for religious gatherings, it held its first concert in 1892, before opening its doors to Hollywood greats. It is here where Johnny Cash first met June Carter, where bluegrass was born and where country music found an audience. Tonight, head to the famous Grand Ole Opry, the world-renowned country music stage and longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history.
Day 3: A day of legends
Go behind the scenes of a Nashville recording studio. This intimate experience introduces you to a performing artist, musicians and the techniques behind a song’s development. Make a stop at Nashville’s Farmers' Market and Market House to explore its artisanal crafts and produce.Explore Nashville with Insight Choice. Choose to visit Nelson’s Green Brier, a local Tennessee distillery and home of the Original Tennessee Whiskey. Alternatively, visit the National Museum of African American Music, which shares the story of the American soundtrack through history and interactive technology.Tonight's dinner at Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant will introduce you to the colourful flavours of Nashville. Perhaps try the crabmeat cheesecake.
Day 4: Heading back home to Memphis
This morning you'll head to Memphis. Whether it’s your first or hundredth time visiting this vibrant city, you’ll be drawn in by the lively melodies coming from Beale Street.Spend the morning on a sightseeing tour of the city, followed by a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the National Civil Rights Museum. While there, you’ll be guided through five centuries of The Civil Rights Movement history and its impact on our culture today.End your day by joining a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a private evening at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is part of The Soulsville Foundation, which aims to prepare young adults for life success and inspire future artists.
Day 5: A day dedicated to the King
Begin you day with a visit to Sun Studio, the “birthplace of rock and roll”, where music legends, including B.B. King, Johnny Cash and Elvis recorded.Make your way to the magnificent Graceland, the former home of the "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis Presley.Dinner this evening will be served at The Beauty Shop, a former parlour turned whimsical New American eatery where Elvis’ ex-wife, Priscilla, was said to get her hair done.
Day 6: Memphis to Greenwood
Travel through the Mississippi Delta down the Mississippi Blues Trail, a route that tells the stories of bluesmen and women. Explore the Delta town of Greenwood at your own pace, before heading to the Viking Cooking School for a hot tamales cooking demonstration - a regional specialty.Later, dine on a mouthwatering dinner at a James Beard Award finalist restaurant that features southern inspired dishes that include produce local to the area.
Day 7: Moving on to Natchez
Learn more about Southern history and hospitality as you head to Natchez. Tour the historic antebellum mansions, and discover the preservation efforts of later generations to tell the story of African-Americans through the decades, understanding that slavery and cotton allowed plantation owners to build these mansions. Test your mixologist skills as you concoct a traditional Southern cocktail, the Mint Julep. Minty, cooling and with a touch of sweetness, you're sure to learn a few party tricks to bring back home with you. Enjoy an evening to yourself. Ask your Travel Director for restaurant suggestions and discover one of the wonderful options in town.
Day 8: Natchez to Lafayette
Move on to Lafayette for a taste of the Cajun and Creole culture. Get to know more about Cajun culture and how it is defined by its roots.Head to the Acadian Cultural Center followed by a unique Cajun music experience.A genre rooted in the ballads of the French-speaking Acadians, it is both eclectic and joyous. Learn more about this fast tempo music and its history from a local accordion maker and musician.In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner with your fellow travellers.
Day 9: Lafayette for foodies
Start the day with a crawfish farm tour just outside the city. You will be joined by a Local Expert who will help you catch your lunch the old-fashioned way, using hand nets. You’ll be taught how to prepare a traditional boil, before sitting down to the meal. If crawfish are out of season, you'll take part in a boil experience with seasonal seafood. Later, enjoy time at leisure or head out on an optional swamp tour.
Day 10: Welcome to the Big Easy
New Orleans is a lively and dynamic city, known for its vibrant culture and electric jazz festivals. On the way down south, stop at the Tabasco® Factory for a self-guided tour and discover how the world-famous red hot pepper sauce is made. This afternoon, head to the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, where you’ll learn more about the city’s diverse cuisine with a guided tour and included lunch.
Day 11: Festivities in New Orleans Relaxed Start
Get to know the city with a Local Expert as you discover each neighborhood's unique architecture and explore the vibrant art scene. See how the community comes together through celebration.In the afternoon, take your pick of optional activities, perhaps getting to know the local culture through a jazz music experience or by meeting a voodoo specialist.End your day by joining your fellow travellers at a Celebration Dinner at the Palace Cafe - a contemporary and upbeat Creole restaurant at the foot of the French Quarter.
Day 12: Depart New Orleans
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers as your adventure comes to an end with a departure to the airport.
Day 1 Welcome to Honolulu!
Aloha! Upon arrival in Honolulu, make your way to your luxurious hotel in Waikiki. Once you settle in, spend the afternoon getting to know the area. Take a walk on the beach and treat yourself to a delicious first-night meal.
Day 2 Honolulu
Begin your day with a tour of Pearl Harbor's infamous Battleship Row. Listen to a narration of the dramatic air attack of December 7, 1941, and visit the USS Arizona and the impressive memorial dedicated to the 1,102 people whose lives were lost. You will also have the opportunity to visit the museum, where you can learn about military craft and complicated history. After a solemn, yet interesting morning, you will enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing. Visit Chinatown, the Hawaii State Capitol, Iolani Palace, the statue of Kamehameha the Great, and more. Tonight, enjoy a lovely included dinner at your hotel.
Day 3 Honolulu
Feel free to sleep in; today is all yours! Spend the day relaxing, swimming, enjoying water sports, or lounging on the beach. This evening, you might want to join an optional sunset cruise with dinner, Hawaiian cocktails, and splendid views of the glittering Waikiki coastline and Diamond Head. If you decide to stay on the mainland, your local host will have great recommendations for shopping and dining!
Day 4 Honolulu - Cruise Departure
Enjoy a pleasant morning at leisure, then get ready to board your cruise ship, the Pride of America! Bid farewell to your local host and get ready for an adventure at sea. Once on board, you'll have time to explore your home for the next seven nights. Enjoy an included dinner and say "cheers" to a wonderful journey. Anchors aweigh!
Day 5 Maui
Rise and shine! Welcome to Kahului, Maui - the "Valley Island!" This tropical paradise has it all: hundreds of spectacular beaches, cascading waterfalls, flourishing jungles bursting with color and birdsong, dramatic volcanic craters, and charming Hawaiian towns. You'll quickly agree that it's a world in its own. The next two days will be yours to spend at leisure. Join one of the many available excursions, take advantage of the ship's amenities, and soak up the beauty of Maui's bright blue sea.
Day 6 Maui - Hilo
Ahh, another day in paradise! Today, enjoy one of the many beaches that surround Maui. If you're an early riser, consider an unforgettable excursion to view Haleakala Crater at sunrise! This optional adventure takes you 10,000 feet above sea level, to the top of Haleakala volcano. Marvel at the crater's otherworldly, lunar-like landscape and become awestruck by the breathtaking view. This evening, relax and unwind with a delicious dinner. Around 6 pm you'll head to to the "Big Island!"
Day 7 Hilo - Kona
Did you know that the Big Island (Hilo) is larger than Hawaii's other main islands combined? With pristine beaches, curious lava formations, Earth's tallest sea mountain, and one of the world's most active volcanoes, the Big Island is spectacularly diverse in its landscapes and activities. Today, you might want to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the 80-foot-high Rainbow Falls! Recharge with a tasty dinner as you depart for Kona.
Day 8 Kona - Kauai
Get ready for an amazing day in Kona! Today, you may want to spring for an optional helicopter ride over Kilauea Volcano's active areas, the lush rainforest, or the Hamakua coastline. For those looking to stay a little more grounded, discover the historic city of Kona along Hawaii's beautiful sun-drenched Gold Coast. Along the route, you'll find ancient temples, coffee and macadamia nut fields, and stunning coastal scenery. Tonight, enjoy dinner as you set sail for Kauai.
Day 9 Kauai
The "Garden Isle" of Kauai boasts a lush, rural feel and a laid-back lifestyle. It's also Hawaii's oldest island! Throughout Kauai, you'll find tropical rainforest, cascading waterfalls, golden-sand beaches, swaying palms, and majestic mountains. Today, consider an excursion to the dramatic 2,857-foot-deep Waimea Canyon. Take a ride up the Wailua River to the famed Fern Grotto!
Day 10 Kauai - Honolulu
Make the most of your morning! Enjoy a few hours on the sandy beaches of Kauai or do some souvenir shopping before departing for Honolulu around 2pm. Enjoy an afternoon of fun aboard the ship, then unwind with some cocktails!
Day 11 Depart Hawaii
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and wave goodbye to beautiful Hawaii. After docking in Honolulu, make your way to the airport for your flight home. A hui hou! Until we meet again.
