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* Save $200 per person for bookings made on or before 12/2/2024. For bookings made after 12/2/2024 call for rates.
We have an exciting itinerary planned including:
Come and enjoy a wonderful range of events that showcase the best of Washington, DC. From music to film, the National Mall to Embassy Row, you’ll experience DC’s vibrant and diverse community.
Day 1-8: Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle, Washington D.C.
Explore America’s heritage and history during your stay in the capital city of the United States – Washington, D.C.
Your day begins at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center with a guided tour of this historic and storied building. Discover the celebrated history of America’s capital on a city tour. Take in views of the White House, National Mall and other monuments and museums. Pause to reflect at the poignant World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
Tour the Washington National Cathedral, which hosted state funerals, Presidential inaugural masses, and MLK’s last sermon.
Decide how you want to see more of D.C. today – it’s your choice.
This evening after an included dinner, enjoy an illuminated twilight tour of the Jefferson, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Lincoln Memorials before returning to the hotel.
Visit Arlington National Cemetery* for a narrated tour that takes you to the Tomb of the Unknowns and the Kennedy gravesites. Head to Old Town Alexandria, nestled along the Potomac, and enjoy time to stroll the cobblestone streets on your own during a break for lunch. Continue to Mount Vernon, the beloved home of George Washington. After a tour of the home, spend time wandering through the gardens and grounds before visiting the tomb of General Washington and his wife, Martha. This evening is yours to explore the district’s culinary scene.
Spend time in the White House Visitor Center and see artifacts from the White House collection. Then, uncover some of the treasures of the Smithsonian Institution with free time to visit any of the more than 10 museums surrounding the National Mall. This afternoon you can choose to live like a local and take the metro with your Tour Manager to return to the hotel. Gather in the evening for a farewell dinner commemorating the end of your historical journey.
Take advantage of seeing more on your own.
The World Pride Parade will take place on one of the most iconic avenues in the World. Spanning nearly 20 city blocks, Constitution Avenue will provide an amazing backdrop, as we showcase Pride to the world. Featuring ornate floats, celebrity marshals, and a vast array of groups representing the LGBTQ+ community, the parade in Washington, DC is poised to become the most beloved and memorable Pride Parade in the United States Capital. The Parade route will be flanked by the National Mall, featuring many of the places you’ve toured earlier in the week.
On your own — See more of the museums and monuments in DC.
Enjoy one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the world — the Capital Pride Festival and Concert. Extending over two days during WorldPride Weekend — June 7 and 8 the Pride Festival is situated on 100+ acres of parkland in the heart of Washington, DC. The National Mall will provide an inspiring location for the hundreds of thousands of participants who will come together to enjoy a wide array of festivities. The Festival features hundreds of tented exhibitors including LGBTQ+ organizations, artisans, food and beverage gardens, and carnival style games. Also offered at no cost to participants will be multiple stages and dance parties, featuring local talent, and national headliners.
Your time on tour comes to a close today, but there’s more of the world to see. Now it’s off to make new memories.
Our industry-leading cancellation waiver offers travellers a full cash refund for the price of the tour, right up to the day prior to departure, minus the small cost of the waiver. Travel worry-free knowing if anything changes, you’re protected.
Click here for complete details.
Our travel protection plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you’re covered.
Travel Protection is just $429 per person.
At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.
A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you’re travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.
A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.
A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.
We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees. In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.
Here are a few details to keep in mind:
Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.
Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.
Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check-in to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.
Hotel membership programs are not applicable.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of all our guests. However, if you require individual assistance you must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor the personnel of companies we work with on tour may physically lift or assist our guests onto transportation vehicles. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a tour guest who has special mobility or other like needs.
Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our tour guests, there aren’t any scheduled activities on your first day of this tour. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.
If you have some extra time before your tour begins to explore Washington, D.C., the energetic capital of the United States of America, you’ll find plenty to do!
Visit Georgetown, located along the Potomac River, and explore the boutiques and trendy restaurants nearby.
See the hustle and bustle of busy DuPont Circle, or relax in one of the city’s many parks.
Explore the Smithsonian Institution. With 19 museums and galleries and the National Zoological Park, the Smithsonian is the largest museum and research complex in the world.
Washington, D.C. has much to offer, from museums and theaters to delightful restaurants and nightlife.
As you prepare to explore Washington, D.C., enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. There is a lot of walking during this tour particularly during the city tour. In case of rain, it’s a good idea to bring a collapsible umbrella, light raincoat or a poncho.
It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers that may be added or removed as the temperature changes.
When you’re deciding what to bring on your trip, we have a few suggestions for you.
In regards to clothing, think layers. It’s much easier to maintain a level of comfort if you can add or remove a layer at a time, especially if you’re traveling to a destination where the temperature can vary widely. So always, bring a light jacket or sweater. Fleece or wool is best. We recommend staying away from cotton sweaters or jackets as they won’t keep you warm if they get wet.
Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.
Be prepared for all types of weather. For warm, sunny weather, pack sunscreen, a hat or a bandana/scarf to protect your neck from sunburn. For cool, rainy weather, pack a light raincoat, travel umbrella, waterproof shoes and a thin pair of gloves.
For your toiletries, pack anything that could leak in plastic bags or a waterproof case. In addition, you might want to bring a washcloth or two. Not all hotels provide them.
If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers.
Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage is delayed. You don’t want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.
In general, we recommend not packing anything of value in your checked bag.
You’ll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don’t forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.
It’s also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t readily available.
If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both.
If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there’s room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed as well.
Last but certainly not least, leave room! You’ll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.
You may want to have a few dollars on hand for smaller purchases. You can find ATMs in airports, hotels, and banks.
You can also pay with a debit or credit card in most places. Some merchants charge a fee for this service, but it adds an extra guarantee on your purchase, so it’s a nice option.
If you have a credit or debit card with a chip in it, it is recommended you use it rather than a card with a magnetic stripe. The chip adds an extra layer of protection against fraud.
Many of our tours include optional excursions that are available for purchase. If you decide to go on one of these during your trip, please note, the credit card you use for payment must have an expiration date greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.
Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. But it can be confusing who to tip, when to tip, and how much. Baggage handling and waitstaff gratuities for included meals, the tips are handled by us. For hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, on-tour motor coach drivers, and Tour Managers, gratuities are not included in the price of your tour. The suggestions below are provided in US Dollars to help you budget for your trip. They can be converted and issued in the local currency, which is generally the preferred option. Personal checks should not be used as they cannot be cashed outside the United States.
Here are a few of our suggestions:
Tour Manager: To express appreciation for your Tour Manager’s delivery of excellent service, $5-8 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour)
Local Guide: For the insights, knowledge, and stories they share with you, $2-3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person is recommended. (When to tip: at the end of the time with your guide)
On–Tour Motor Coach Driver: To express your appreciation for a job well done, $3-5 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour or time with your driver)
Airport Transfer Driver: If your airport transfer is included in your package or purchased from Collette, gratuities might already be included. Please reference the transfer information section in your final tour documents for confirmation. If gratuities are not mentioned, the suggested amount is typically $3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person.
Hotel Housekeeping: It is common for travelers to leave a gratuity of $1 US Dollar (or equivalent in local currency) per day, per room for hotel housekeeping staff. (When to tip: each day before leaving for your touring)
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi access has improved, with free or cheap internet available in many public spaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though it may not reach rooms in hotels. Wi-Fi will not be available onboard motorcoaches or other modes of transportation used during your tour.
Here is a list of entities we recommend you contact before you depart on your tour:
1.) Your cell phone/mobile carrier if you are planning on using your device. You will want to confirm you will have access in the area(s) you will visit and inquire about any charges you may incur.
2.) Your credit card company for any card(s) you plan to use. Make sure the card company knows when and where you will be traveling to avoid any charges being declined.
3.) Your bank, so you can use your ATM/debit card worry-free. If you are travelling to another country, your bank will be able to tell you if your card will work at the ATM machines to dispense local currency, including if your PIN will be accepted. Also, indicate if you plan to use your debit card as a credit card if your card has that option. Your bank will advise you of any charges for each transaction as well.
Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you’re away and someone needs to reach you.
We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.
During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.
Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for bellmen, door attendants and wait staff.
At the beginning of your tour, your Tour Manager will distribute a personal radio and headset. You should wear them on sightseeing tours to make sure you can hear your guides clearly at all times. Please bring them with you every day. Your Tour Manager will collect them at the very end of your tour, typically on your last evening. You are responsible for returning these devices and will be charged a replacement fee should you fail to do so.
You’re in for a treat as you discover the flavors that make up the cuisine of Washington, D.C. — a meeting spot for many international dignitaries and visitors.
The cuisine reflects Washington’s presence on the world scene. From Italian dishes to Asian cuisine to American pub fare, you will discover a variety of tastes here.
Virginia is famous for their ham and seafood, specifically oysters and crab.
At the beginning of your tour, your Tour Manager will distribute a personal radio and headset. You should wear them on sightseeing tours to make sure you can hear your guides clearly at all times. Please bring them with you every day. Your Tour Manager will collect them at the very end of your tour, typically on your last evening. You are responsible for returning these devices and will be charged a replacement fee should you fail to do so.
In order to enhance your experience on tour, one local guide will accompany the group in a specific location. This guide comes from the region and has a deep understanding of the people and culture. They are joining the tour to share their knowledge with you. Please refer to your Tour Manager for the city this guide will join your tour and refer to the gratuities section for tipping recommendations.
Your day of departure is almost here, and it’s time to think about what to pack. We have a few guidelines to help you. But before you pack anything, you must check with your airline for any luggage fees or restrictions. These can vary widely depending on your carrier and destination.
Let’s begin. The first thing to consider is how many bags to bring. We recommend one large bag that will be checked on the plane and onto the touring bus and one carry-on bag. It’s very important you keep this in mind. We have limited space on our buses, so limiting the bags ensures there’s room for everyone’s luggage.
Your larger bag can’t be more than 62 in/157 cm in length, height and width and cannot weigh more than 50lb/23kg. Your carry-on cannot be bigger than 17 x 12 x 10 inches (43 x 30 x 25 centimeters) so it will fit under the seat or in the overhead racks on the buses. Your carry-on should be a size that you can carry comfortably. You will use this bag to hold your personal items during sightseeing trips.
Please note that if you bring more than one checked bag and one carry-on, we cannot guarantee there will be room for them on the bus. You’ll need to store or ship any additional luggage at your own expense. If there is room for your additional luggage, we will charge a fee of 4 USD per bag per hotel. It’s also very important that all your bags be labeled clearly. In your packet you will find a luggage tag. Please attach it to the bag you plan to check.
The name on this tag should match the information on your reservation exactly, so the Tour Manager and all baggage handlers can properly identify the bag as yours. This will ensure the bag is delivered to you quickly and efficiently.
Finally, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while you’re on tour. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. But we offer comprehensive “No Worries Travel Protection” for your convenience. With insurance, you’ll be able to focus on creating wonderful memories, not worrying about your luggage.
Please note, some attractions do not allow large backpacks into their sites, so you may need a smaller bag for sightseeing.
Remember the 3-1-1 rule: Each airline passenger is allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag containing no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) of any liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bag. Any liquids, including water bottles, that don’t fit in the one quart-sized bag or are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Common items that must comply with this rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. For a complete list of what is allowed and not allowed to bring on a plane, visit www.tsa.gov.
Guests flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12 oz./ 350 ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.
The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors. For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.
The average price for meals in this region ranges from 10 to 15 US Dollars for breakfast,15 to 25 US Dollars for lunch and 30 to 50 US Dollars for dinner.
The water is safe to drink. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout each day of your tour to stay hydrated.
Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.
Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.
As you prepare for your tour, reading is the perfect way to learn about the culture, people and history of your destination.The following is a list of novel and book recommendations that will immerse you into the destination long before your arrival. Let this set the scene for you as you prepare for the tour of a lifetime and get excited about all that is to come!
The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
In this thrilling mystery, symbologist Robert Langon uncovers hidden secrets in Washington, D.C. while searching for a missing friend.
The War Within: A Secret White House History by Bob Woodward
Woodward presents an exhaustive and illuminating account of General David Petraeus’s leadership struggles during the Iraq War, highlighting breakthroughs in military operations, surveillance, and the decision to surge troops, while addressing broader questions of governance and leadership secrecy.
The Georgetown Ladies’ Social Club: Power, Passion, and Politics in the Nation’s Capital by C. David Heymann
A captivating non-fictional book that delves into the lives and influence of influential women in the Georgetown social scene.
The Hopefuls by Jennifer Close
This novel is about the life of a woman who follows her husband to Washington, D.C. as he follows is political dreams. Along the way, they meet another couple that is involved in the political scene of Washington, D.C.. Their friendship quickly turns into jealousy, competition and rumors.
One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been.
Popular items to purchase in Washington, D.C. include American history and political memorabilia.
Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please let your Client Care agent know when you book your tour. Please note we cannot guarantee your request as many hotels prohibit smoking in rooms and on property.
Please be mindful of other locations where smoking is not allowed. These include the motor coach, at dining venues, and any other restricted areas on tour. Guests are responsible for any fines they incur for failing to comply with smoking regulations.
All cities on this tour are on Eastern Standard Time and Eastern Daylight Time.
Peace of mind for our guests is our number one priority. When you’re on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager’s expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.
If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:
If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home and, if applicable to your tour package, flights from city to city (inter-flights). In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:
We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So, when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.
If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.
If you purchased your air ticket on your own (our land-only tour package), you may purchase a round-trip transfer for a fee.
Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your documents packet. If you decide to arrange your own transportation to the hotel, please make sure to check in with your Tour Manager once you arrive.
Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature-controlled. While some coaches may have a toilet facility, it is for emergency use since local laws require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons. Rest assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience. Please note, outlets for charging devices may not be available on the coach. Therefore, if you anticipate using electronic devices, we recommend bringing portable power banks.
Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all guests to change seats. This ensures that every guest has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. Depending on availability, single passengers may be seated next to another traveler. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.
Our planet affords us so many awe-inspiring natural wonders. To ensure that stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed for generations to come, we’ve been making several changes to the ways we live, work and travel. In our offices and on our tours, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics. On our USA tours, bottles of water are not distributed or sold on our motorcoaches. However, we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottle and your Tour Manager will provide details on where you can fill it up each day!
Book Now rates valid until Dec 02, 2024, valid on air inclusive packages only.
Economy air rate and schedule are applicable for groups of 10 or more traveling on the same flights and dates.
The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. Expect some full days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included activities.
Travel with a group size of an average of 37 travelers, up to a maximum of 44 travelers.
If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.
During the Summer months (June-August), weather can reach high temperatures and many of our activities are outdoors.
The days and order of sightseeing may change to best utilize your time on tour.
Washington, D.C. has visitors year-round, specifically with student groups which means museums and top sites may get crowded.
*For any groups traveling during the second week of October, the Army Ten-Miler Race will be taking place with traffic and road closures impacting our route. Any groups traveling over this period, the day and timing of Arlington National Cemetery may change. No itinerary inclusions will be missed.
Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Single rate subject to change based on availability.
To complete your tour, we include roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing our airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times.
For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.
Please be advised many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline’s terms and conditions.
IDENTIFICATION Travel within USA For travel completed by May 6, 2025, all airlines will ask for identification when you check in. It is recommended that you carry a passport if you have one. A driver’s license (with a photo I.D.) is also acceptable for domestic flights. Effective for travel May 7, 2025 forward, the REAL ID Act standards for identification while travelling will be in effect. This means a standard issued driver’s license used as a form of identification will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel within the United States. Instead, a Real ID compliant form of identification must be presented both at the time of booking air travel with Collette and upon checking in at the airport to board any flight. Any fees associated with changing a reservation resulting from a non-compliant identification will be the responsibility of the guest. For more information on Real ID, please visit the Department of Homeland Security website: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is planned to coincide as near as possible with the blooming of the trees. “Peak Bloom Date” is defined as the day on which 70 percent of the blossoms of the Yoshino cherry trees are open. The date when the Yoshino cherry blossoms reach peak bloom varies from year-to-year, depending upon weather conditions. The mean date of blooming is April 4, but nature is not always cooperative and the National Park Service horticulturists cannot make an accurate prediction much more than 10 days prior. The blooming period starts several days before the Peak Bloom Date and can last as long as 14 days; however, frost or high temperatures combined with wind and/or rain can shorten this period.
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