LONDON THEATER
With Vice Provost for the Arts & Director of the Virginia Film Festival Jody Kielbasa, embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural and historical wonders of London. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British history at the Tower of London, witness the timeless allure of Shakespearean drama at the Globe Theatre, and explore the cutting-edge contemporary art at the Tate Modern. Marvel at the architectural grandeur of St. Paul's Cathedral and attend a world-class performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Delve into the artistic treasures at the King's Gallery, step back in time at Bateman's and the Royal Pavilion, and admire masterpieces at the National Gallery. Lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Covent Garden, witness the grandeur of the Royal Opera House, and pay homage to Shakespeare in Stratford Upon Avon, visiting his Birthplace and Anne Hathaway's Cottage. As a crowning extension, indulge in the floral splendor of the Chelsea Flower Show, adding a touch of natural beauty to this cultural odyssey.
Program Highlights
- Tower of London
- Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre Tour
- Tate Modern
- National Gallery
- St. Paul’s Cathedral, Royal Albert Hall, King’s Gallery
- Bateman’s, Royal Pavilion, Royal Opera House
- Covent Garden
- Stratford Upon Avon: Shakespeare’s Birthplace
- Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
- Optional Extension to Chelsea Flower Show
Price: $7,495 per person, double occupancy, land only.
Single rooms are available for a supplement of $1,995 to the double occupancy rates.
Appointed to the Vice Provost for the Arts position in 2013, Mr. Kielbasa is responsible for planning for the arts at UVA in consultation with the Arts Advisory Committee, helping guide fundraising initiatives associated with the arts, including creating the Arts Endowment, and for initiating and coordinating cross-disciplinary collaborations both inside and outside the Visual and Performing Arts & Architecture Departments and Programs at the University.
Numerous programs, including The Fralin Museum of Art, Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection, the Virginia Film Festival, WTJU Radio, and the UVA Arts Box Office report to Kielbasa as the Vice Provost for the Arts. With his oversight, these programs have grown in both staff and programming and continue to provide UVA and the community-at-large incredible opportunities to explore all we have to offer.
Before coming to UVA, Kielbasa spent ten years as the Founding Director of the Sarasota (FL) Film Festival and was instrumental in turning it into one of the nation's premier regional film festivals. Early in his career, he founded the award-winning Tamarind Theater in Los Angeles, California, where he produced over 100 plays.
Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Kielbasa graduated from Rollins College and earned a B.F.A. in Theatre from Florida State University and an M.F.A. in acting from the F.S.U./Asolo Conservatory for Actor's Training in Sarasota, Florida.
Jody resides in Charlottesville with his wife Helen and their three children Camille (College ‘23), Luke, and Juliet.
Begin your journey as you board your overnight flight to London.
(Meals Aloft)
Arrive at London’s Heathrow Airport where you will be met by your driver and guide and escorted to the city center.
Begin your exploration and discovery of London proper on your morning panoramic tour featuring major London sites such as Knightsbridge and perhaps the most famous retail therapy haven of them all, Harrods. See also Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, River Thames, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Visit the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly 1,000 years of history and intrigue. The Tower itself has been used, at various points throughout history, as a palace, barracks, military stronghold, zoo, and prison. You may recognize some famous detainees of the prison, including Sir Walter Raleigh, Anne Boleyn, and Guy Fawkes. During your tour, learn about the gruesome torture that went on within its walls, view the crown jewels of the British Royal Family (valued at over 25 billion USD), and chat with the Yeoman guards, who you cannot miss with their distinctive white ruffs. Afterwards, explore the neighborhood and enjoy lunch on your own.
Continue to your hotel and check-in (after 3:00 pm) where the rest of the day is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel to get better acquainted with your fellow travelers.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL. Dinner (D)

DAY 3 – Friday, May 16, 2025
London: Globe Theatre/Tate Modern/Theatre Performance
After breakfast,we will meet for a talk from Jody.
Step back in time as you explore Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a unique resource that is more than a performance space: It is also dedicated to the exploration of The Bard’s work and the playhouse for which he wrote, through connected means of performance and education. The theatre is a faithful reconstruction of the open-air playhouse designed in 1599 and is as true to the original as modern research and traditional craftsmanship can make it.
On your visit you will take a guided tour of the theatre itself with expert guide/storytellers who will recall some of the colorful stories of 1599 and explain how the reconstruction process took place in the 1990’s. You will top off your tour with entry into the Shakespeare Exhibition which brings the playwright’s world to life using a range of interactive displays and live demonstrations. Discover how shows were produced in the theaters of Shakespeare's time, including writing, rehearsals, music, dance, and performance. Cast your eyes upon elaborate Elizabethan costumes or create your own Shakespearean phrases.
Visit the Tate Modern art gallery, one of London's most popular attractions, in the former Bankside power station on the Queen’s Walk, Southbank. Sir Giles Scott, who designed this outstanding modern and contemporary building, was also the designer of Battersea power station and the iconic London red telephone box. It opened to the public in the year 2000 and has become one of the most visited Art Galleries in the world. Tate Modern features works by Rothko, Matisse, Dali, Cezanne and Picasso, and contemporary works by Matthew Barney, Chris Ofili and Gerhard Richter. Note: Extra entrance fees will be charged locally for some exhibitions.
Walk over the Millennium Bridge and tour one of London's most loved landmarks, St Paul's Cathedral, which has looked over the city for more than three centuries. St Paul's Cathedral sits at the top of Ludgate Hill, the highest point in London and is the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. St. Paul's Cathedral has had an eventful history. Five different churches were built at this site. The last cathedral was built in a relatively short time span: Its first stone was laid on June 21, 1675 and the building was completed in 1711. The dome reaches a height of 366 ft. and weighs about 66,000 tons. Eight arches support the dome. On top of the dome is a large lantern with a weight of 850 tons. The Baroque interior of the cathedral is just as magnificent as the exterior. Climb into the iconic dome for stunning views across London, try out the acoustics of the Whispering Gallery and head down to the crypt to see the tombs of heavyweight historical figures like Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
At the end of the visit walk back across the Millenium Bridge to the South Bank and spend some free time exploring before making your way to Ladnum Restaurant for a pre-theatre dinner.
After dinner (on your own) you will walk the short distance to County Hall for a performance of ‘Witness for the Prosecution’ - an adaptation Agatha Christie’s novel, set in a unique court room venue where the audience sit in the Grand Chamber and experience the drama of the story at close proximity. HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL. (B)
DAY 4 – Saturday, May 17, 2025
London: Bateman’s/Royal Pavilion
Today’s drive takes you to the Bateman’s, the Sussex home of Rudyard Kipling and his wife Caroline. The 17th century property set in the beautiful landscape of the Sussex Weald is a house full of charm and character. the date of 1634 is marked around the door. The couple bought the house in 1902 after falling in love with it. He lived there until his death in 1936. his widow left it to the National Trust in 1939. Discover the rooms of the house just as the Kipling family left them. Kipling was obsessed with India, which is themed heavily throughout the house, however it still exudes English charm. There’s also an exhibition room within the property that details all of Kipling’s work. The grounds surrounding the property are also mesmerizing, with a water mill south of the estate, and several wild gardens.
At the end of your visit, you will be transferred to Brighton to visit the Royal Pavilion, a stunning pleasure palace designed for King George IV. The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is a breathtaking palace influenced by Indian and Chinese design. Spend some time in the stunning Royal Pavilion Garden, which is a part of the Royal Pavilion Estate. Rooms open to visitors include the banqueting room, the great kitchen, the music room, the royal saloon, reception rooms and the royal bedrooms.
Return to your hotel late afternoon where the rest of your day is at leisure.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL.(B)
DAY 5 – Sunday, May 18, 2025
London: Covent Garden/Royal Opera House/National Portrait Gallery
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Covent Garden for a tour of the Royal Opera House, one of the world's most celebrated theatres and the home of The Royal Ballet, The Royal Opera and The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House.
Last stop for the day is at the National Gallery located on the north end of Trafalgar Square. Though the 1838 William Wilkens design was controversial when first proposed, its façade has withstood the tests of time and continues to act as a gateway to some 2,000 works of priceless art paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Here you can find works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Dyck, Michelangelo, Raphael, Renoir, Van Gogh, and many others.
The guide will give you a brief introduction in both venues, before leaving you free to wander and admire your favorite items and pictures
Return to your hotel late afternoon where the rest of your day is at leisure until this evening's show.
Enjoy a pre-theatre dinner (on your own) and afterwards enjoy a show at a London Theatre.
Note: Show to be chosen nearer the time of arrival.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL.(Breakfast)
DAY 6 – Monday, May 19, 2025
London: King’s Gallery & Royal Albert Hall
Have breakfast and join your fellow travelers for a lecture for a maximum of two hours (until 10:30hrs.)
This morning you will visit the King’s Gallery, which exhibits art from the Royal Collection. This collection, owned by the King “in trust for the nation”, is displayed on a rotation of approximately 450 pieces at a time. Tonight, you will enjoy a private talk and tour of the current exhibition (subject to availability) at King’s Gallery.
After lunch (on your own) transfer to the Royal Albert Hall, a concert hall and one of London's most beloved and iconic buildings, located on the northern edge of South Kensington. The gigantic glass dome that covers the Royal Albert Hall is considered the largest unsupported glass dome in the world. On your private tour you will be taken on a fascinating journey through Victorian architecture and history, finishing inside the Hall’s spectacular auditorium.
Your afternoon is at leisure to relax or do some sightseeing on your own.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL. (Breakfast)
DAY 7 – Tuesday, May 20, 2025
London/Stratford-Upon-Avon
Leave London behind and journey to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, steeped in culture and history. This unmistakably Tudor town is the birthplace of the author of the most quoted lines in the English language – William Shakespeare. Here you will find typically kitschy experiences – medieval recreations and Bard-themed tearooms, some of which are humbling – Shakespeare’s modest grave at the Holy Trinity Church, and others which are awe-inspiring.
A distinctive 16th century, half-timbered house is where the great bard William Shakespeare was born, grew up, and lived with Anne Hathaway and his children for the first five years of their married life. Today it is a literary shrine for millions of pilgrims per year and offers a glimpse into the life of Shakespeare through the artifacts and memorabilia of a number of exhibitions, one of which includes a copy of the only known portrait of the playwright.
Gather tonight for a farewell dinner at your hotel.
Overnight at DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON STRATFORD. (Breakfast,Dinner)
DAY 8 – Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Stratford-Upon-Avon Matinee Performance/London
Discover the real romantic life of William Shakespeare, as you explore the thatched cottage and gardens, once the home of his wife, Anne Hathaway, and her family. Eighteen-year-old William spent much time courting Anne, a woman six years his senior, in the beautiful grounds of the cottage. The stunning gardens showcase traditional Tudor planting, giant willow sculptures, a heart-shaped lavender maze and woodland trails. Within the cottage there are many original pieces of furniture and an exhibition on Tudor courtship. The cottage is located just over one mile from Stratford-upon-Avon in the hamlet of Shottery.
You will return to Stratford -upon -Avon to enjoy an early lunch at the Rooftop Restaurant at the RSC before attending a matinee performance.
Your theatre performance today will be at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) housed in Stratford-upon-Avon. The aim of the RSC is to keep modern audiences in touch with Shakespeare as a contemporary. That means that as well as the work of Shakespeare and his contemporaries, their repertoire includes classic plays by international dramatists and work by living writers.
Overnight at the HILTON HEATHROW HOTEL. (Breakfast, Lunch)
DAY 9 – Thursday, May 22, 2025
London/USA
You will be transferred to the airport today as you complete your exploration of London, taking with you all the wonderful memories of its interesting culture and theater history. (Breakfast, Meals Aloft)
Or Stay on for the:
Optional Post Extension to the Chelsea Flower Show
$1,995 per person, double occupancy. Single rooms are available for a supplement of $795 to the, double occupancy rates.
DAY 8 – Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Stratford-Upon-Avon Matinee Performance/London
Enjoy the activities as outlined on the main trip. In the evening, transfer back to your London Hotel, while the rest of the group stays at the Heathrow Airport Hilton.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL. (Breakfast, Lunch)
DAY 9 – Thursday, May 22, 2025
London: Chelsea Flower Show
Today bid farewell to the rest of the group departing for the USA
The Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society, is the most famous flower show in the British Isles and one the most famous in the world, attracting visitors from almost all continents. The RHS has run a flower show since 1862 and the exhibition moved to its current home in the early 1900’s.
Every year, the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea are transformed with stunning horticultural displays. World renowned gardeners, plant specialists, florists and nurseries come together to show off cutting edge garden designs and inspirational floral exhibits. As you stroll through the show, taking in award winning gardens, you will discover rare flowers and plants, creative floral works of art; spot emerging gardening trends, and browse horticultural products for sale, ranging from gardening gadgets to sculptures and plants.
The rest of your day is at leisure.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL. (Breakfast)
DAY 10 – Friday, May 23, 2025
London: Day at Leisure/Theatre Performance
Today is a free day for you to explore London at leisure.
After dinner (on your own) you will have return coach transfers to a West End Show.
Note: Show to be chosen nearer the time of arrival.
Overnight at the HILTON LONDON KENSINGTON HOTEL. (Breakfast)
DAY 11 – Saturday, May 24, 2025
London/USA
You will be transferred to the airport today as you complete your exploration of London, taking with you all the wonderful memories of its interesting culture and theater history. (B, Meals Aloft)
Accommodations
• Hilton London Kensington Hotel
The Hilton London Kensington Hotel, conveniently located near London’s West End and fashionable Kensington High Street. The comfortable rooms offer all amenities including minibar, blow dryer and coffee maker. Decorated with modern art, the WestEleven Restaurant serves a breakfast buffet every morning. The stylish Avenue Bar & Lounge is set within the lobby and offers an á la carte menu, a wide selection of drinks, and computer terminals with internet access
• Double Tree by Hilton Stratford
The DoubleTree by Hilton Stratford-upon-Avon is located in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon, and just an 11-minute walk from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The intimate hotel offers a warm and friendly atmosphere along with all the modern amenities including in-room Wi-Fi access and air conditioning. Bathrooms with shower/tub combinations and free toiletries.
• Hilton Heathrow Hotel
The Hilton Heathrow hotel is connected to Terminal 4 via a covered walkway and less than 15 minutes from Heathrow Terminals 2, 3, and 5. All 398 rooms feature comforts such as 24-hour room service and laptop-compatible safes, in addition to thoughtful touches like laptop-friendly workspaces and air conditioning. Bathrooms with eco-friendly toiletries and showers. guests can connect to free Wi-Fi in public areas.
All meals as indicated in the itinerary.
$7,495 per person, double occupancy, land only.
A limited number of single rooms are available for a supplement of $1,995 to the per person, double occupancy rates.
There are no air inclusive prices but our trip operator can help you with booking flights.
Optional Post Extension to Chelsea Flower Show: $1,995 per person, double occupancy.
Single rooms are available for a supplement of $795 to the per person, double occupancy rates.
Price Includes:
- Superior accommodations throughout as indicated or similar.
- Breakfast daily, a welcome and farewell dinner, and all meals indicated on the itinerary.
- One ticket for the County Hall performance of ‘Witness for the Prosecution’ - an adaptation Agatha Christie’s novel (May 16, 2025).
- One mid-range ticket to the London-area theater performances including roundtrip coach transfers (May 18, 2025).
- One matinee performance in Stratford Upon Avon (May 20, 2025).
- One mid-range ticket to the London-area theater performances including roundtrip coach transfers, on the extension (May 23, 2025).
- Visits and admission fees to: Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre tour, Tate Modern, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Watts Artist Village, Royal Albert Hall, King’s Gallery, Bateman’s, Royal Pavilion, National Galley, Covent Garden, Royal Opera House, Chelsea Flower (on the extension) Show, Stratford upon Avon: Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.
- All ground transfers and excursions in private deluxe motor coach.
- Services of a professionally qualified Blue Badge Tour Guide who will act as Tour Manager throughout the tour and offer guide services at visits.
- Gratuities for baggage handling and wait staff on included meals.
- Complimentary bottled water on coaches during sightseeing.
- Complimentary water bottles and luggage tags.
Price Does Not Include:
- Roundtrip airfare between USA and London. If you require assistance with air arrangements, contact Classic Escapes.
- Excess baggage charges levied by airlines.
- Meals and beverages, other than specified.
- Gratuities to driver, guide, and other conveyance attendants during your free times. Gratuities should only be given as a reward for exceptional service and is at your discretion. We estimate £10 per full-day per person for the guide, £8 per full-day per person for the driver, and £5 per person for each arrival and departure transfer from the airport / hotel. These are daily per service estimates and an exact tipping chart will be detailed on your final itinerary.
- Laundry and other items of a personal nature.
- Personal and baggage insurance.
- Cost for anything not specifically mentioned in the listing above.
Ready to register? The best way to do this is by phone so that we can ensure we are meeting all of your needs. Please call us at 866-765-2646. Or, e-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
A deposit of $1,500 per person is required to reserve your spot on the main program and $400 per person for the extension. Final invoicing will be done approximately 5 months prior to departure. Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure.
Deposits can be made via Visa, Master card, or American Express. We also accept ACH payments.
Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
General Terms & Conditions
The purchase of your travel booking constitutes a contractual agreement between the traveler(s), customer(s), and/or purchaser(s) (collectively as "You" and "Traveler"), and Classic Escapes ("Classic Escapes", "We", "Us") pursuant to the following terms and conditions ("Terms", "Agreement"):
DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT: You will be required to pay the following per person deposits when booking. Those amounts are:
- $1,500 per person
- $400 per person
CREDIT CARD TRANSACTIONS: If for any reason, any travel service provider is unable to provide the services for which you have contracted, your remedy lies against the provider, and not against Classic Escapes, and in the event that payment has been made to Classic Escapes by credit card, you agree that you will not seek to chargeback your payment to Classic Escapes. If the credit card is passed through to the travel service provider and you seek to chargeback your payment from the provider, you agree to be held liable and indemnify Classic Escapes against this chargeback from the provider, including without limitation any air debit memos charged to Classic Escapes. If the credit card is declined, you guarantee that you will settle any amounts owing to Classic Escapes via money order or cash immediately. Except in cases of fraud, you agree not to file any dispute with your bank or credit card company to avoid or violate any booking terms and conditions of Classic Escapes or its suppliers, including cancellations or changes of itinerary or arrangements for reasons beyond the control of Classic Escapes or its suppliers. If you attempt to chargeback, reverse, or recollect a previously authorized trip payment, Classic Escapes reserves the right to collect all additional costs, fees and expenses associated with such chargeback, reversal, or recollection, including, without limitation, attorney fees.
IMPORTANT CONDITIONS: Prices are subject to increase prior to the time you make full payment. Prices are not subject to increase after you make full payment, except for charges resulting from increases in government-imposed taxes or fees. By signing the reservation form, you expressly acknowledge your acceptance of these conditions (i.e., increases before full payment and increases attributable to government-imposed taxes or fees after full payment will be your responsibility) applicable to your purchase.
RATES: Rates are based on the minimum number of guests outlined in this document, plus airfare costs, currency exchange rates and other factors and are subject to change. Though it is rare for Classic Escapes to make a price adjustment after promotion of an itinerary, we do reserve the right to assess a surcharge if the minimum is not met, or if increases are forced upon us by airlines or other partners or because of changes in currency exchange rates.
ADDITIONAL FEES: Additional taxes and surcharges that cannot be pre-collected may be charged locally. Cost of passport and visa fees and service charges for obtaining visa fees; excess baggage charges levied by airlines; laundry and other items of a personal nature; optional travel insurance policy(s); or any other costs incurred that cannot be pre-collected are NOT included and are the sole responsibility of the Traveler.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: The quoted rate is valid for the first two single rooms booked and on a first-come, first-served basis. If more than two single rooms are needed, an additional supplement may apply. Single accommodations are not guaranteed but will be provided at additional cost if available (see ‘Your Journey at a Glance’ section for the cost.) The single room supplement pays for privacy, not better accommodations. For passengers who are traveling alone and wish to share a room with another tour member, we will do our best to provide a roommate. However, if this is not possible, you will be required to pay the single room supplement prior to your departure from the USA.
GRATUITIES, ENTRANCE FEES & TAXES: Gratuities for baggage handling, service charges and taxes imposed by hotels, and entrance fees to all points of interest as outlined in the itinerary are included in the final cost. U.S. and foreign airport taxes are included in air costs. Tips to drivers and specialist guide(s) are not included and are the sole responsibility of the Traveler.
CANCELLATIONS, DEVIATIONS & CHANGES
TRAVEL INSURANCE: We recommend travel insurance. Travel insurance can provide financial reimbursement should the unexpected occur.
CANCELLATION POLICY: Cancellations are only effective on receipt of written notification. The following per person fees are applicable on this tour:
- Up to 6 months prior to departure (November 15, 2024), $300 per person administrative fee and $300 non-refundable deposit given to our suppliers.
- 179 days to 96 days prior to departure (November 16, 2024 to February 7, 2025), $300 per person administrative fee, plus $600 non-refundable deposits given to suppliers.
- 95 days to 76 days prior to departure (February 8 to February 27, 2025), deposit is forfeited.
- 75 days to 60 days prior to departure (February 28 to March 15, 2025), 25% refund is possible.
- 59 days or less prior to departure (March 16, 2024), no refund is possible.
- These cancellation fees are also in addition to any fees imposed by airlines.
CHANGE FEES: Once you reserve your tour, changes are possible subject to availability of air or land space at the time of request. Should there be any change fees imposed by airlines or ground operators, or additional costs incurred due to availability of any space, this cost will be invoiced to you.
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS: We would be happy to make additional travel plans for you, including specially arranged pre- or post-tour extensions different than those that may be offered in conjunction with this tour. A service charge of $150 per person (over and above the cost of the services required) will be assessed.
DOCUMENTS
PASSPORTS: All individuals departing from the United States of America must be in possession of a valid passport. Please check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have valid travel documentation, including but not limited to passports and visas, which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities at every destination. You are responsible for confirming with the United States Department of State or the representative government agency of the country to which you are traveling to confirm the requirements for visas and/or other requirements for admission to your destination. Any fines, penalties, payments, or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.
REAL ID: Beginning October 1, 2021, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., it is your responsibility to make sure it is REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies, please check with your local state Department of Motor Vehicles or visit www.tsa.gov/real-id.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: It is the responsibility of each Traveler to obtain and carry a valid passport, visa(s), and all other documents required by applicable government regulations. When traveling domestically or internationally, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advise that everyone carry acceptable identification in order to board a flight. Acceptable identification can be found at http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/acceptable-ids. The name, date of birth and gender that appears on the identification card must exactly match the same such data that is listed on airline ticket(s) and booking records. You acknowledge any failure to strictly comply with these requirements may result in denied boarding or an undue delay at an airport security checkpoint causing Traveler to miss flight(s), and subsequent scheduled travel bookings on cruises and tours.
Travel documents include, without limitation, airline tickets, hotel vouchers, tour vouchers, or any other document (whether in electronic form or otherwise) used to confirm an arrangement with a service provider. Travel documents may be subject to certain conditions and/or restrictions such as, but not limited to, being non-refundable, non-date-changeable, and subject to cancellation and/or amendment fees. Travel documents cannot be transferred to another person to use. All airline tickets must be issued in the name of the passport/photo identity holder. An incorrect name on a booking may result in an inability to use that booking and the booking being cancelled. Any errors in names, dates, and timings may result in an inability to use that booking and the booking being cancelled. Any errors in names, dates, and timings on your documentation will be your responsibility if we are not advised at the time of booking. Please reconfirm your flights at least 24 hours prior to departure.
PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION: Upon receipt of your registration and deposit, we will send you an electronic pre-departure packet containing all the information you need to prepare for your tour, including the complete itinerary, packing checklist, required documents, insurance information, etc.
FINAL DOCUMENTS: Electronic final documents and air e-tickets will be sent to you approximately two weeks prior to departure, provided all monies have been paid in full.
TRANSPORTATION
AIR TRANSPORTATION: Your program does not include international airfare. If you require assistance, contact Classic Escapes.
FLIGHT CONFIRMATION: We strongly suggest that you reconfirm exact flight times with the carrier prior to departure. Air travelers are required to check in at least 2 hours prior to departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights and must report to the gate at least 30 minutes prior to departure time. Failure to comply may result in the loss of the seat to another passenger.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: Federal law prohibits passengers from bringing hazardous materials on the aircraft. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard aircraft in the passenger’s luggage or on the passenger’s person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives, and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radiopharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in the passenger’s luggage and certain smoking materials carried on the passenger’s person. For further information, each passenger should contact the relevant airline representative(s) on their itinerary. Restrictions on hazardous materials are listed http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/prohibited-items.
INSECTICIDE NOTICE: Some countries require insecticide spraying of aircraft prior to a flight or while you are on the aircraft. We recommend that you refer to the Department of Transportation’s list of airports in countries that require airlines to treat the passenger cabin with insecticides prior to the flight or while on the aircraft available at https://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements.
BAGGAGE & FEES: Additional fees for baggage may apply. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding its checked baggage policies. On average, international flights from the USA allow one piece of checked luggage, not exceeding 50 pounds, plus a carry-on piece not exceeding 15 pounds; however, we always recommend that you check your airline’s policy just before departure, as luggage limitations are always subject to change. There may also be luggage and weight restrictions for your destination and that information will be forwarded to you with your pre-departure material and also listed on your final documents.
AIRLINE CLAUSE: The airlines concerned are not to be held liable for any act, omission, or event during the time the passengers are not on board their planes or conveyance. The passengers’ tickets in use by the airline or by other carriers concerned when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and the purchaser of these tickets and/or passengers.
DELAYS: We cannot be held liable for any delays or additional costs incurred as a result of airlines not running to schedule. Any additional land or air fees imposed on account of airline delays will be borne by the traveler.
TRANSFERS: Roundtrip airport transfers are included in the tour for guests arriving on group flights.
TRIP DETAILS
ACCOMMODATIONS: You will marvel at the wonderful accommodations provided throughout your tour. All rooms have private bathroom facilities and air conditioning and/or fans. All rates are based on double occupancy. Most rooms are twin-bedded, but king-size beds are occasionally available and should be requested in advance. Accommodations listed in this itinerary are correct at time of writing, but on rare occasions may be substituted for a different property of comparable quality.
MEALS: All meals as specified in the itinerary. Please notify us if you have special dietary needs or requests, and we will do our best to accommodate.
WATER: It is always advisable to drink bottled and/or filtered water when traveling overseas. Safe drinking water will be provided to travelers free of charge in the vehicles and during meals.
PHOTOGRAPHY: The Company reserves the right without further notice to make use of any photograph or video taken on the tour by our photographers without payment or permission. We guarantee that no photographs of a compromising nature will be used.
GUIDES: If one of Classic Escapes’ guides are unable to take a trip due to circumstances out of our control (i.e., illness, etc.), we reserve the right to substitute with another guide.
TOUR ITINERARY: To the best of our knowledge the itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies or changes that may occur after printing.
HEALTH AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: You must have the proper immunizations and health screenings and required documentation of such immunizations and screenings before travel. It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of any health requirements, health advisories, or health travel restrictions applicable to your travel destinations and to ensure that you carry all necessary vaccination documentation. Classic Escapes is not responsible for providing you with this information. Travel carriers and local authorities at travel destinations may require specific testing prior to boarding and/or upon arrival at your destination, including, but not limited to, a temperature check as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. You may be denied entry onto your carrier and/or entry upon arrival at your destination or be required to self-quarantine at your destination and upon your return to the United States. You must comply with local government regulations. Any additional costs are your responsibility. Check the State Department Web site http://travel.state.gov, for relevant information relating to travel to specific destinations, and the Center for Disease Control http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ relating to health issues related to travel.
You must be in good physical and mental health. It shall be your duty to inform us in case you have any medical condition that may affect your ability to enjoy and pursue fully the services of Classic Escapes. By registering for a Classic Escapes service/program, you certify that you do not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for yourself or others.
COVID-19 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TRAVEL INSURANCE: For your protection, we strongly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation and travel accident insurance. However, no representation or description of the insurance made by Classic Escapes to you constitutes a binding assurance or promise about the insurance. Classic Escapes is not an insurance company and has no responsibility for the submission, payment, or adjustment of any insurance claims. Any insurance claims that may fall under the relevant travel insurance policy must be submitted to the insurance company identified in the policy. We recommend the following service – please visit the website to enroll: http://www.travelguard.com/classicescapes/. Any questions about what travel insurance does or does not cover should be addressed directly to the travel insurance company, Travel Guard at 1-866-385-4839 and reference ARC #71298. If you decline insurance coverage, you will personally assume full responsibility for any financial loss associated with your travel arrangements, and you could lose your travel investment and/or have to pay more money to correct the situation. THE PURCHASE OF TRAVEL INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ON ALL TRIPS.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION COVERAGE: For the convenience of our travelers, Classic Escapes provides a complimentary Medical Insurance Plan during your trip via Travel Guard Group, Inc. This includes:
- Emergency evacuation insurance up to $100,000.
- Up to $25,000 medical expense and up to $500 dental expense coverage subject to the terms and limitations of the insurance policy.
- 24-hour worldwide travel and medical assistance.
- Medical Plan (926801)
Please click here to view complete coverage of details.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
TOUR OPERATOR: Classic Escapes acts as a tour operator/travel agent only. Classic Escapes does not own, operate, manage, or control any independent suppliers of services and is not liable for their acts or omissions. Classic Escapes’ obligations to you are to make travel bookings on your behalf and to arrange relevant contracts between you and other travel service providers. We have no responsibility for these services, nor do we have the authority to make any warranty or representation regarding their standard. Requests cannot be guaranteed. All bookings are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations of liability imposed by these travel service providers. You understand that your legal recourse is against the specific provider, not Classic Escapes. Conditions can change rapidly in a country at any time. It is your responsibility to check the USA Government Travel advisories for your intended destination at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html.
RESPONSIBILITY OF THE COMPANY: We always do our best to make sure your travel arrangements are satisfactory. However, Classic Escapes and its employees, shareholders, subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, agents, and assigns do not own or operate any third-party entity that provides goods and services for your travel, including without limitation lodging facilities, airline, vessel, motorcoach, or other transportation companies, local ground operators, providers, food service providers, etc. All such persons and entities are independent contractors and are in no way affiliated to Classic Escapes. We are not liable for any delays or additional costs incurred by the Traveler as a result of any actions or occurrences by any of the foregoing third party entities.
LIABILITY: Classic Escapes is not liable for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any travel service provider or of any third party.
Because Classic Escapes does not have the right to control the operations of such travel service provider or any third party, you agree that Classic Escapes is not liable for any personal injury or property damage which may arise out of these services. Classic Escapes hereby disclaims any liability whether based on contract, tort, strict liability or otherwise, including without limitation liability for any direct, punitive, special consequential, incidental or indirect damages, in connection with the goods or services provided by any supplier booking through Classic Escapes, including without limitation liability for any act, error, omission, injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be incurred through the fault, negligence, willful acts, omissions or otherwise of such travel service provider or any third party, or their respective employees, agents, servants, or representatives, including, without limitation, their failure to deliver or their partial or inadequate delivery of services, their cancellation and refund policies, fuel increases, bankruptcy or cessation of operations and other matters outside of Classic Escapes’ control, and you hereby exonerate Classic Escapes from any liability with respect to the same.
FORCE MAJEURE: Classic Escapes will not be in breach of these terms and conditions or otherwise be liable to you, for any failure or delay in performing an obligation under this Agreement that is due to any of the following causes, to the extent beyond its reasonable control: acts of God, accident, riots, war, terrorist act, illness, disease, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, civil commotion, breakdown of communication facilities, including web host and internet service provider, breakdown or malfunction of equipment, destruction of or serious damage to facilities, natural catastrophes including, but not limited to extreme weather events, floods and volcanic eruptions, governmental acts or omissions, changes in laws or regulations, national strikes, fire, explosion, generalized lack of availability of raw materials or energy, and any other unforeseen circumstance which is beyond the control of Classic Escapes. THE PURCHASE OF TRAVEL INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ON ALL TRIPS.
REFUSAL OF SERVICE: Service providers reserve the right to refuse service to travelers at their sole discretion, including, without limitation, if the traveler: (i) lacks proper documentation for the country of destination; (ii) has a contagious disease; (iii) is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or narcotics; and/or (iv) manifests disruptive and/or unruly behavior. Classic Escapes assumes no liability for the acts of the service provider in refusing service.
ELECTRONIC OR HANDWRITTEN SIGNATURE: Both parties agree that you may acknowledge and agree to these Terms: (i) electronically; (ii) by handwritten signature; (iii) by any other electronic means, including, without limitation, via email acceptance of these Terms; or (iv) by your implied consent deemed via your actions, which shall include without limitation the payment of the invoice in part or in full or your use of the services provided by Classic Escapes or any other travel supplier related to your booking. All such means will be deemed to constitute effective acknowledgement and execution of this Agreement and shall be sufficient to bind the parties to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
RESERVATION OF RIGHTS: We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to change these Terms and Conditions at any time. Updated versions of the Terms will be provided to you, will be posted on our website, and are effective immediately on posting.
GOVERNING LAW: The construction, validity, and performance of these Terms and any disputes between the parties shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to its conflict of law principles, and any federal laws applicable therein. Both parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the State of New York with respect to any legal proceedings relating to these Terms.