BEST OF THE WEST - 12 days, 1 country and 15 cities

Day 1 - ARRIVE LOS ANGELES (2 NIGHTS)

Welcome to the land where it's usually 70F or 21C degrees and sunny, southern California. Arriving today, you'll meet up with your Travel Director to get a glimpse of what's to come on your West Coast USA tour, before getting to know Anaheim, your home for the next two nights. You'll find plenty of dining and entertainment options with magical Disneyland nearby.

Accommodation: Clarion Hotel Anaheim Resort

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Day 2 - LOS ANGELES SIGHTSEEING

Ready to get stars in your eyes? This morning's tour with your Travel Director will show you the all-out glitz and glamour of L.A. Join your fellow travellers and see the wealthy streets of Beverly Hills, drive down the iconic Sunset Boulevard, walk along the stars of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and see the Dolby Theater, home of the Academy Awards. Afterwards, we take you to beautiful Santa Monica where you'll have the afternoon free to explore your way.

Accommodation: Clarion Hotel Anaheim Resort

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Day 3 - LOS ANGELES – PHOENIX (1 NIGHT)

We depart Los Angeles for Phoenix passing through San Gorgonio Wind Farm (one of the windiest places in the US). It features thousands of wind turbines that power the popular Coachella Valley resort towns. Passing through the resort town of Palm Springs, you will then cross the Arizona state line into the ‘Valley of the Sun’, a region boasting 300 days of sunshine per year. Catching your first glimpse of the Colorado River, your final destination for today is Phoenix. This evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Accommodation: Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa

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Day 4 - PHOENIX - SEDONA - FLAGSTAFF (2 NIGHTS)

Heading north out of Phoenix, today you will witness the impressive saguaro cactus in their desert habitat. As you make your way to the small town of Sedona you will notice the red rock landscape provides a stunning backdrop for artists and craftsmen alike. As one of America's best small cities for the arts and a haven for New Age enthusiasts, Sedona lives up to its reputation as an artist's hub. On your way from Sedona to Flagstaff, you will pass through the heart of Oak Creek Canyon. Located in the Coconino National Forest, it is one of the most scenic drives in all of Arizona. With red sandstone walls on one side of the road and the lush river gorge canyon on the other, you can expect an incredible panoramic view.

Accommodation: Best Western Pony Soldier Inn & Suites

Included Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

• EASY ON THE ASPHALT (90 MINUTES) - A “Sedona snapshot” with great photo opportunities! Join us on this informative and relaxing, yet breathtaking tour of some of Sedona's most magnificent overlooks and some of the most photographed sites in all of Arizona. Adults: US$ 120.00
• CANYONS AND COWBOYS - Pack your cowboy hat! Experience the Wild West with Red Rock Western Guide's scenic tour of majestic canyons and Dry Creek Basin. Adults: US$ 120.00
• RED ROCK JEEP TOURS - Embark on a true western historic experience as you travel back in time on this unique trail featuring amazing views, adventure, and a historic landmark. As you begin your journey down Dry Creek Basin, gaze in awe as you pass by the unique southwestern landscape, with breathtaking red rock formations such as Lizard Head Rock and Balancing Rock towering over as you listen to your professional guide tell you stories of the history in this area. Come join the wild western adventure on this historic trail! Adults: US$ 126.00

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Day 5 - FLAGSTAFF - GRAND CANYON - FLAGSTAFF

Start today in style with your sights firmly set on one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage listed Grand Canyon National Park. You'll learn all about the geological formation of the Grand Canyon with your Travel Director, and then it's up to you to choose how to explore it further. Stop at Desert View Intertribal Cultural Heritage Site to hear stories, family histories and cultural demonstrations by tribal members on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Perhaps view the Grand Canyon from above and take an optional helicopter tour. Still flying high from an incredible day, you'll finish up this evening in the Arizonan escape town of Flagstaff, a laid-back outpost on the historic Route 66.

Accommodation: Best Western Pony Soldier Inn & Suites

Included Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

• GRAND DISCOVERY AIR TOUR SOUTH RIM - 45 MIN. FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT FLIGHT - There’s no better way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon South Rim than on a fascinating aerial tour offering unobstructed views. Sit back and feel the thrill of this Natural Wonder as you fly over the Kaibab National Forest, Kaibab Plateau, Confluence of Colorado, Little Colorado River, Imperial Point and Zuni Corridor. Adults: US$ 196.00
• GRAND KINGDOM - 40 MIN. ECOSTAR HELICOPTER FLIGHT - Soar across the canyon rim on a helicopter flight, watching as the bottom seemingly drops out from under your feet. Gaze deep into the core of the canyon over 5,000 feet down to the confluence of the Little Colorado River. Then drift past Imperial Point - a rugged spire standing alone near the North Rim of the Canyon. Flying at the same altitude as the North Rim, you may feel you can reach out and touch the canyon walls. Then head back to Grand Canyon South Rim via the Dragon Corridor, another of the Grand Canyon's most picturesque sections. Adults: US$ 391.00
• NORTH CANYON TOUR HELICOPTER FLIGHT. BELL AIRCRAFT - 25 MINUTES - The Grand Canyon opens up before you on a memorable helicopter experience over its southern and northern rims. After flying over the Kaibab National Forest, enter the Dragon Corridor - the deepest and widest part of the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the canyon's legendary beauty through the specially designed oversized windows of your helicopter. Have your camera ready to capture the colourful stone walls and sweeping vistas surrounding you. Fly over the mighty Colorado River toward the canyon's rugged North Rim and soar along with rock formations, including the Tower of Ra and Vishnu Schist. Adults: US$ 264.00

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Day 6 - FLAGSTAFF – HISTORIC ROUTE 66 – LAS VEGAS (2 NIGHTS)

Ready to get your kicks on Route 66? Today is the day to do it. This iconic road is a symbol of the American dream and has been immortalised in books and movies for years. Still to this day, Route 66 represents the ultimate American road trip and you'll get to take an unforgettable journey down a stretch of it, stopping by Seligman and Kingman en route to Vegas, two iconic outposts that offer a real taste of all things Americana, complete with classic motels, kitsch petrol pumps and steaming slices of apple pie. Finally, as if by magic, you'll slowly spot the neon lights of Las Vegas looming in the distance. This entertainment oasis is surrounded by dry desert and has a reputation almost as big as the fortune's many have made (and lost) here.

Accommodation: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino

Included Meals: Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

• LAS VEGAS SIGHTS & LIGHTS - Join this exciting night on the town in the ‘City That Never Sleeps!’ You’ll be amazed by the brilliant Fremont Street Experience, see countless wedding chapels, and, of course, be awed by the most spectacular collection of casino hotels in the world. There will be plenty of stops along the way to see some of the most extravagant casinos and attractions, each trying to outdo the next. Be prepared for an evening that’s full of surprises! Adults: US$ 46.00
• HIGH ROLLER FERRIS WHEEL - Experience Vegas from new heights! Measuring 520 feet in diameter, the High Roller eclipses both the London Eye and Singapore Flyer. Facing north and south parallel to Las Vegas Boulevard, the wheel takes 30 minutes to complete one full revolution and features 28 glass-enclosed cabins with broad views of Las Vegas and the Strip. Adults: US$ 40.00

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Day 7 - LAS VEGAS FREE TIME

With a full day in Sin City, it's entirely up to you how to explore the entertainment capital of the world. The casinos, the all you can eat buffets, the glittering rooftop pools, the biggest names in show business - they're all here for the taking. Or if you're up for it, to help tailor your Vegas experience, we've also got a whole suite of enticing Optional Experiences lined up to help you experience a different side of Las Vegas. Head over to Hoover Dam to stand 900 metres above the Colorado River to admire Lake Mead, it holds back the biggest man-made reservoir in the United States. Perhaps a singalong at ‘Vegas! The Show' if a show is more your style. However you choose to explore, today will be one to remember.

Accommodation: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

• RED ROCK CANYON CLASSIC PINK JEEPS TOUR - Climb aboard our adventurous Tour Trekker. Within minutes of the Strip, experience the natural side of Las Vegas. As your journey through the Red Rock Canyon impresses with its natural beauty, an expert guide provides insight into how this remarkable landmark was formed. Adults: US$ 118.00
• HOOVER DAM VISITOR CENTRE - Depart Las Vegas to one of the most famous modern marvels of our time, the Hoover Dam. First view the dam from the newly completed Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the largest concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, completed in 2010. Stand 900 feet above the Colorado River and gaze in amazement at the largest dam of its time, holding back the United States' largest man-made reservoir, Lake Mead. Our visit includes admission to the visitor centre. The visitor centre features exhibits that highlight the history of the region and the construction of the Hoover Dam. Adults: US$ 54.00
• GRAND CELEBRATION HELICOPTER TOUR - The Grand Celebration Helicopter Tour is one of our most popular tours to Grand Canyon West. Enjoy unparalleled views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, extinct volcanoes, the Colorado River, and the Mojave Desert's scenic beauty. As you fly over the West Rim on the Hualapai Reservation, your helicopter will begin a 3,200-foot descent to the canyon floor. Take in the magnificent views of the massive walls and rock formations before landing at the bottom of the canyon. The helicopter will land at a private plateau located next to the Colorado River, and you'll have ample time to explore the canyon floor and enjoy a light picnic and a glass of celebratory champagne before heading back to the terminal. Adults: US$ 561.00
• GRAND CANYON WEST RIM - Get picked up at your hotel in a custom-built Pink Adventure Tour Trekker vehicle. We take care of lunch, parking and admission fees so you can focus on your day of fun. Pass by Lake Mead, the largest man-made reservoir in the United States. Journey through a Joshua Tree forest, one of the most iconic plants in the Mohave Desert. Arrive at the visitor centre in the Grand Canyon, home to a Hualapai village. Experience the Skywalk, a glass bridge that stretches 70 feet from the rim (added fee option). Visit Guano Point, one of the most stunning viewpoints at the Grand Canyon. Photo stop at Hoover Dam, one of the Seven Wonders of the Industrial World. Adults: US$ 314.00
• DEATH VALLEY DISCOVERY - Head to Death Valley and spend the day getting to know this seemingly desolate location. In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life thrives in Death Valley.  Adults:  US$ 281.00
• LAS VEGAS FOODIE TOUR - Discover the locals’ favourite destination, the newly revitalized booming downtown that showcases a completely different side of Vegas, away from noisy slot machines and gaming tables for a welcome slice of urban authenticity instead. In recent years, downtown has gone uptown in a big way, undergoing a thrilling renaissance to become the city’s most dynamic food scene. Get to know the independent chefs and restaurateurs bringing their singular visions to life with seasonally driven, farm-to-table artisan fare, and cocktails crafted with heart and soul. Our expert guides provide an insider’s view of this special neighbourhood. You’ll learn about downtown’s historic past, what prompted its resurgence, and what the future holds for this now trendy area. You’ll be privy to all its intriguing nooks and crannies, which only savvy locals know about. What to Wear: dress appropriately for the day's weather conditions and wear comfortable walking shoes with upscale restaurant attire. No sweatpants, jerseys or athletic apparel permitted. No flip-flops or tanks tops for men. Includes stops at four local restaurants. This is a walking tour so guests should be comfortable walking short distances and standing for several minutes in between restaurant visits. Adults: US$ 145.00
• VEGAS! THE SHOW AND DINNER - Come and experience what is hailed as the only show in Vegas, about Vegas! VEGAS! The Show will take you by the hand back in time to experience the iconic stars and personalities that helped to define the soul that created the Sin City we know today! Featuring some of the most beautiful showgirls in Vegas, and some of the best voices in the country, you can hear all of the hits from your favourite stars while witnessing the greatest moments that helped define Las Vegas as the Entertainment Capital of the World. Experience the iconic personalities that helped shape the story of one of the greatest cities on Earth. Backed by a live big band orchestra, "Santa Fe and The Fat City Horns", this is the only production that will recreate the class, sass and excitement of old Las Vegas right before your eyes! Your ticket also includes a three-course dinner at Café Hollywood - located steps away from the theatre. Adults: US$ 152.00

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Day 8 - LAS VEGAS – VISALIA (1 NIGHT)

Leaving Las Vegas rich in memories, you'll head for the Mojave Desert this morning. As the driest desert in the United States you'd expect nothing more than barren landscape as you drive through, so prepare to be surprised as you pass lots of rare and beautiful flowers and wildlife. Admiring the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountain range and continuing into the San Joaquin Valley, you'll finish up today in the agricultural hub of Visalia. With a Downtown area that boasts old world charm and a wide selection of superb restaurants, tonight's dinner will no doubt be filled with chat amongst your fellow travellers about what to expect from your exciting visit to Yosemite National Park tomorrow.

Accommodation: Wyndham Visalia

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Day 9 - VISALIA – YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK – MODESTO (1 NIGHT)

Awe-inspiring nature at its finest, Yosemite will challenge all other national parks you've previously visited to stake its claim as the most beautiful. The third oldest national park in the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this patch of heaven is all emerald green valleys, cascading waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and pine scented forests, framed by the iconic Half Dome and the striking peak of El Capitan. Take your time soaking it all in and exploring the various trails and picnic areas your way before heading on to Modesto, one of the greatest agricultural areas of the nation and the home of the E. & J. Gallo Winery.

Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Modesto

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Day 10 - MODESTO – SAN FRANCISCO (2 NIGHTS)

Feeling the ocean breeze moving ever closer you'll head back to the California coast today, crossing the Bay Bridge into one of the West Coast's best loved cities, San Francisco. A historical hub for progressive thinkers and creatives, San Fran's famously hilly landscape will instantly win you over as you spot the old-fashioned cable cars slowly rising and falling on the horizon. Explore the ‘City by the Bay' on a sightseeing tour that visits Fisherman's Wharf, the Palace of Fine Arts, the lush Presidio area and Italian influenced North Beach. This evening you could opt to join our Chinatown walking tour, exploring the markets, dim sum joints and herb shops of America's oldest Chinatown before dining family style at a decadent Chinese feast.

Accommodation: Parc 55 San Francisco Hilton

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

• GUIDED CHINATOWN WALKING TOUR, PIER 39 AND CITY ILLUMINATIONS TOUR - Explore the Chinese markets, herb shops, a fortune cookie factory and more (weather permitting). After, board your motorcoach for the City Illuminations Tour. Drive past the colorful signs and glittering lights of North Beach, the Embarcadero, Fisherman’s Wharf, Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower, the Broadway Strip and the historic Ferry Building. After crossing the Oakland Bay Bridge to Treasure Island, catch a spectacular night panorama of sparkling San Francisco! Adults: US$ 88.00

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Day 11 - SAN FRANCISCO FREE TIME

You'll head off this morning to a San Fran institution, Boudin Bakery, who have been producing their very special ‘Mother Dough' since 1849. With breakfast sorted, the rest of the day is then free for you to explore your way. If it's city icons you're after, why not join your fellow travellers for a walk along the Golden Gate Bridge, followed by a visit to the pretty seaside community of Sausalito. Alternatively, take a cruise around the bay, taking in Alcatraz Island en route, or venture out to Muir Woods to admire the towering, ancient redwood trees that grow here. However you choose to explore, you'll be sure to make the last day of your USA value tour an extra special one.

Accommodation: Parc 55 San Francisco Hilton

Included Meals: Iconic Breakfast

OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

• MUIR WOODS TOUR OF CALIFORNIA COASTAL REDWOODS - Venture north over the Golden Gate Bridge to an isolated canyon filled with ancient coastal redwood trees, also known as Muir Woods National Monument. Enjoy solitude and peace, through the cool, moist air, as you stroll through 1000-year-old trees towering 260 feet tall. Experience the awe and wonder as you are treated through Northern California’s signature fog, while you wander in and out of the Mother Nature’s redwood alleyways. The canopy of coastal redwoods soaring above will stimulate all of your senses as you journey through a piece of ancient California history. You will never forget the crisp, fresh redwood fragrance that will surround you on your journey to the majestic Muir Woods National Monument. Lastly, enjoy a scenic drive through the quaint seaside town of Sausalito – a Mediterranean-like village harbored across the San Francisco Bay, famous for its sweeping views, timeless sophistication, local boutiques and cafes. Adults: US$ 89.00
• SAN FRANCISCO BAY CRUISE - Take advantage of prime photo opportunities with unobstructed views in every direction aboard the 60-minute Bay Cruise Adventure. Sail past the famous Pier 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline. This comfortable San Francisco Bay Cruise tour has both indoor and outdoor seating with full narration describing major landmarks as you sail by them. This fully narrated one hour cruise sails underneath the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, around mysterious Alcatraz Island, past Angel Island State Park. No reserved seating available. Adults: US$ 39.00
• GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE WALK AND SAUSALITO - Stroll across the 1.7 mile span of the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge and learn how the bridge was an engineering marvel and about the people who gave so much time to build this icon of San Francisco. Arrive in the quaint seaside community of Sausalito and have time to leisurely browse the charming shops or have lunch along the picturesque bay. Your adventure concludes with a wondrous ferry cruise across the bay, passing haunting Alcatraz Island and catching an amazing view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Adults: US$ 44.00
• DINNER ON FISHERMAN'S WHARF - In 1978 an Italian immigrant named Louis opened his iconic restaurant, Swiss Louis, on Pier 39 near Fisherman’s Wharf. Today, as in the past, Swiss Louis Restaurant continues to provide diners a cozy and casually elegant dining atmosphere. The current owner, also from Italy, came to Swiss Louis almost 40 years ago and continues the tradition of serving the finest Italian dishes and the freshest seafood. Enjoy a 4-course dinner on your first night in San Francisco. Adults: US$ 67.00

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Day 12 - DEPART SAN FRANCISCO

With fond memories of sunny Los Angeles, fun loving Vegas and peaceful Yosemite still fresh in your mind, today your adventure through the Golden West will come to an end. You've tasted, trekked and maybe even taken a helicopter ride over these lands, and we hope you've made a bunch of incredible memories along the way. Not ready to go home just yet? Why not extend your stay in San Francisco a little longer, and pay those cheeky Sea Lions down at Fisherman's Wharf an overdue visit. Departure will be at leisure.