7/16/2011
Day 1
SATURDAY
Central Illinois-Chicago-Overnight Flight
Today our private motor coach takes us to Chicago, where our flight to Copenhagen, Denmark awaits us. Don't worry about your luggage as Linda will arrange for skycaps. Once on board, sit back, relax, and get ready for a memorable vacation.
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7/17/2011
Day 2
SUNDAY
Flight-Copenhagen
Upon arrival we are taken to our hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is free to start exploring Copenhagen, the largest city and capital of Denmark. While there are lots of sights to see, Tivoli Gardens is the city's best known attraction. Located in the very heart of the city, this world renowned amusement park combines all the fun of rides with fountains, beautiful gardens, strolling musicians, and top-quality restaurants. And at night, visitors are dazzled by the parks fairyland lights and fireworks. Overnight at hotel.
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7/18/2011
Day 3
MONDAY
Copenhagen, Denmark-Embarkation
We enjoy a sightseeing tour this morning of Copenhagen. This is the home and final resting place of author Hans Christian Andersen, and, in fact, the fairy tale feel of the city is everywhere, from the coppery green towers alongside gingerbread houses to the cobblestone streets lined with bikes and warm people. Lining the sides of Copenhagen's most beautiful square is the Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of Denmark's royal family. Waiting for us along the colorful waterfront is the famous Little Mermaid statue. We board our ship around lunch time and set sail at 6:00 PM.
(B, D)
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7/19/2011
Day 4
TUESDAY
Oslo, Norway
Wake up this morning to the beautiful city of Oslo! With high hills on three sides and the great Oslo Fjord--60 miles long--in front, the city is truly a magnificent site. Not to be missed is a visit to the Bygdoy Peninsula, which offers beaches, walking, numerous historic sites, and fascinating museums. One of the best ways to experience this area is to take a cruise along the scenic Oslo Fjord. Other tours include a visit to the renowned Viking Museum, home to three remarkably preserved oaken Viking long ships from the 9th century uncovered near the Oslo Fjord. Art lovers may choose to see Vigeland Sculpture Park, which features over 650 statues by sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Works of all sizes in granite depict the many stages and episodes of human life. For those who prefer a more relaxed day, Oslo offers great cafes and quality shopping. Without a doubt, this city rich in Viking and maritime history has something to offer for everybody. Arrive 10:00 A.M. and set sail at 7:00 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/20/2011
Day 5
WEDNESDAY
Aarhus, Denmark
It's back to Denmark again and its second largest city, Aarhus. Located on the east coast of the Jutland Peninsula, Aarhus dates back to 770 A.D., making it the oldest large city in Scandinavia. Like Oslo, Aarhus is rich in Viking history. Archaeological findings reveal that the Vikings lived here some 1,300 years ago. Among its sites is the cathedral of Aarhus. Rebuilt in 1500, it is the tallest and longest cathedral in Denmark. A visit to Old Town will transport you back into Denmark's past. This open-air village museum consists of 75 historical building collected from 20 townships in all parts of Denmark. These half-timbered structures were originally erected between 1550 and the late 1800's. A trip to the countryside will find you in a hilly landscape interspersed with forests, meadows, and sandy beaches along the coastline. Arrive at noon and depart at 7:00 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/21/2011
Day 6
THURSDAY
Warnemunde, Germany for Berlin
Today we dock at Warnemunde. Once considered just a quaint fishing village at the mouth of the Warnow River, Warnemunde is now the gateway to the great city of Berlin with its history, culture, and attractions. Board a chartered train for one of the optional city or country side tours. First time visitors will definitely want to see the Allied Museum which commemorates the U.S., British, and French presence in Berlin from 1945 to 1994. Highlights of this tour include a visit to the original Checkpoint Charlie guard house, a Berlin Wall watchtower, a plane from the Berlin Airlift, and an American spy tunnel. The Reichstag, Gendarmenmarkt, and Bebelplatz are among the photo opportunities. Shoppers will want to head to Berlin's most famous boulevard, the Kurfurstendamm. For those who simply want to relax, take a cruise along the River Spree. Arrive at 7:00 A.M. and set sail at 9 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/22/2011
Day 7
FRIDAY
Day at Sea
Some of the best trips Linda has hosted have been those which allowed for a restful break from touring. And this day is one! Relax at sea and enjoy the amenities of the spectacular Emerald Princess. A floating resort, this luxurious cruise ship offers multiple dining options, including Traditional and Anytime as well as specialty venues like the popular Sabatini's Italian restaurant. And don't worry about enjoying all that delicious cuisine as you can stop by the Lotus Spa and fitness center any time. Or if you prefer, just hang out at one of the ship's four freshwater pools. As for the nights, they are always abuzz with activities, and it's up to you to choose your pleasure: movies under the stars, live theater, plush lounges, swanky casinos, and dance clubs.
(B, L, D)
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7/23/2011
Day 8
SATURDAY
Tallinn, Estonia
The lovely capital city of Tallinn is one of the Baltic's great surprises, a fairyland jewel of medieval architecture perched dramatically above the sea. In 1991, Estonia won its independence from the Soviet Union without bloodshed, and since then, Tallinn has succeeded in restoring its beauty and charm. A member of the famed Hanseatic League that dominated trade in the Baltic during the Middle Ages, Tallinn has preserved its medieval Old City with its high church spires and red-tiled roofs. The heart of old Tallinn's "Upper Town" is Palace Square, home to Toompea Castle, the seat of the Estonian Parliament. The gothic St. Mary's Cathedral is one of the city's major architectural landmarks and the oldest church in Tallinn. Take time to explore the quiet alleys where you will find small cafes and craft shops tucked away. Arrive at 8:00 A.M. and depart at 5:00 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/24/2011
Day 9
SUNDAY
St. Petersburg, Russia
Today your Russian adventure begins with arrival in St. Petersburg! Rich in cultural heritage, St. Petersburg is a masterpiece of architecture embodying the soul of Imperial Russia. The grand dream of Peter the Great, the city begin in 1703 when Peter built a fortress on the banks of the Neva River. By 1712 Peter's new capital city had emerged. Elegant facades, glorious cathedrals, and stately residences were built along the city's canals. Construction flourished under Catherine the Great, and the city gained new splendor with elaborate palaces, lovely parks, and magnificent squares designed by French and Italian architects. Without a doubt, St. Petersburg is one of the most glorious cities in Russia, if not the world. Fortunately for us, we will have two full days in St. Petersburg to visit many historical sights, such as the Hermitage Museum, the majestic baroque Catherine's Palace in Tsarkoye Selo, and Peter the Great's Peterhof Palace. Located on a hill overlooking the gulf of Finland, it was built to rival Versailles. This evening you will have an opportunity to relive court life in 18th century Russia by returning to the Catherine Palace for a champagne reception or attend a Russian ballet performance at one of St. Petersburg's historic theaters. . Arrive at 6:30 A.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/25/2011
Day 10
MONDAY
St. Petersburg, Russia
If you didn't visited the Hermitage Museum yesterday be sure to do so today. Once the home for every czar and czarina since Catherine the Great, the museum fully lives up to its sterling reputation. If you had the time, it would take you days to absorb the 150,000 or so works on display! And before boarding the ship, allow some time to bargain with local vendors for lacquered boxes, pins, painted nesting dolls, jewelry and other Russian crafts. Depart at 6 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/26/2011
Day 11
TUESDAY
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki is our port of call today. Finland's capital, Helsinki is the center of Finnish commerce and culture. The skyline features a dramatic blend of classical architecture and clean modernism, with Russian and Swedish influences throughout. A city of the sea, Helsinki is easily explored on foot. However, the more adventurous might like to explore the city on one of Finland's famed Jopo bikes. But regardless of your preference, the main tourist sites are grouped in several clusters and nearby islands are easily accessible by ferry. Dating from the early 19th century, the Senate Square is the focus of the city and boasts fine neoclassical buildings, such as the Lutheran Cathedral of Finland and Helsinki University. Not to be missed is Temppeliaukio Church, which was blasted and carved from solid granite and topped with a huge copper dome. This church is one of the most unique structures in the world. The colorful and lively Kauppatori or Market Square is where everyone comes to buy the freshest fish, fruits, vegetables and flowers, and where you'll find every conceivable local handicraft and souvenir for sale. Arrive at 7:00 A.M. and set sail at 4:00 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/27/2011
Day 12
WEDNESDAY
Stockholm, Sweden
Graceful waterways and architecture from the 15th to the 19th centuries await us in Stockholm. Situated where Lake Malaren meets the Baltic Sea, Stockholm was founded as a fortress in the mid-13th century. The fortress grew into a town and spread to the 14 islands nearby, and eventually the mainland became the capital of Sweden. Today these islands are linked by boats and bridges. The central island of Gamla Stan, known as Old Town, will wow you with its medieval beauty, winding, narrow lanes, and small cafe-lined squares. Just east of Gamla Stan is the island of Skeppsholmen, whose twisting cobble streets are lined with superbly preserved old buildings. As the site of the original Stockholm, history, culture, and a dash of old Europe are evident here. Along the waterfront, you will discover the former Royal Palace with its treasure trove of tapestries, porcelain, and furnishings. Maritime buffs will not want to miss the Vasa Museum, home to the 17th-century warship Vasa, the oldest fully preserved ship in the world. Arrive at 7:00 A.M. and depart at 2:00 P.M.
(B, L, D)
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7/28/2011
Day 13
THURSDAY
Day at Sea
Another delightful day at sea to relax! No need to make any suggestions as by now you will know exactly how to spoil yourself on this fabulous ship!
(B, L, D)
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7/29/2011
Day 14
FRIDAY
Copenhagen, Denmark-Disembarkation
We return to Copenhagen, Denmark, docking at 5:00 AM. Linda will arrange for a group departure. After claiming our luggage, we are taken from the port to the airport where we board our same-day flight connection home. On arrival at O'Hare, we clear customs and board our waiting chartered motor coach with warm memories of the" Land of the Midnight Sun!"
(B)
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