House of travel USA Brochure 2017 | Page 63

Take to the River The lower stretch of the Mississippi, from carefree New Orleans to vibrant Memphis, is the river of legends. Control of the Mighty Mississippi was the key strategic goal of the Civil War and even today it is still the lifeblood of commerce in the Old South. This is the river of centuries-old shaded oak trees, elegant antebellum plantations, cobblestone streets and Victorian mansions. Hear the river’s music in blues, jazz, zydeco and rock and roll and savour its diversity with a host of distinctive Creole and Cajun culinary delights. The world of Mark Twain’s revered book Life on the Mississippi is best experienced from the vantage point of the graceful American Queen, the most opulent riverboat in the world. There is always plenty of activity onboard and ashore for the adventurer in all of us. Antebellum South 9 days/8 nights The romance of the antebellum era and lively Cajun culture are firmly rooted in the fertile cotton fields, vast sugar cane plantations and pillared mansions. Onboard, all it takes is a rocking chair, a cold beverage, good company and the gentle breeze as the paddlewheel churns to forget all your worries. Day 1: Memphis, Tennessee Day 2: Embark Memphis, Tennessee Enjoy the sights and sounds of Memphis. Begin your voyage this afternoon. Day 3: Greenville, Mississippi Day 4: Vicksburg, Mississippi Discover a unique blend of old and new in Vicksburg. Billed as the ‘Red Carpet City of the South’, Southern hospitality is alive and well and awaiting your arrival. Day 5: Natchez, Mississippi Step into the plantation lifestyle of the antebellum south in Natchez, site of numerous restored mansions. Visit historic Jefferson College or amble down the Natchez Trace. Day 6: St. Francisville, Louisiana This quaint town located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River is your window to the past, with over 140 buildings on the National Register, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside, and bustling Main Street shops. Day 7: Baton Rouge, Louisiana The capital of Louisiana, Baton Rouge, is the centre of all the great things the state has to offer and is one of the South’s fastest growing cities. Memphis Arka nsa s Riv Day 8: Nottoway, Louisiana Explore the South’s largest remaining Antebellum mansion on the grounds of Nottoway Plantation. Day 9: New Orleans, Louisiana Tie up in New Orleans near historic Jackson Square and bid your riverboat adieu. Departures: Set departures (Mar-Dec) Some departures are reverse itinerary Inclusions: 7 night River Cruise aboard American Queen, one night pre- cruise deluxe hotel stay in Memphis with breakfast, taxes, porterage and transfers to American Queen, wine and beer with dinner, cappuccino, espresso, speciality coffee, bottled water and soft drinks, shore excursions Price Guide From: $3143 Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area Greenville Vicksburg Natchez Interco astal Waterway The price guide shown is per adult twin share based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date. St Francisville Baton Rouge Plantation Road New Orleans 59