APRIL 2012 - Leisure Group Travel
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APRIL 2012
A Premier Tourism Marketing publication
www.leisuregrouptravel.com
COVER STORY
VOL. 22, NO. 2 • APRIL 2012
contents
COVER STORY
52 Broadway Boom by randy mink
new york city stages offer groups a spring and summer calendar
filled with cutting-edge fare and much-anticipated revivals.
52
FEATURES COLUMNS
18 The Essential Costa Rican Nature Experience 6 On My Mind
by lance harrell by jeff gayduk
21 Switzerland Attracts Religious Travel Groups 8 On Tour
by marty sarbey de souto
by don heimburger
26 Southern Mansions by dave bodle
10 On Reunions
by edith wagner
36 Music in the Mountains by manny vega
12 On the Record
40 Minnesota Milestones by randy mink
58 On Marketing
46 Curtain Call in Pennsylvania by coley nelson
by dave bodle
50 10 Top Iconic Sights of New York City by randy mink ON THE COVER:
Cirque du Soleil’s Zarkana
55 Historic Homes & Gardens of California (Jeremy Daniel, Richard Termine Costume:
Alan Hranitelj ©2011 Cirque du Soleil)
by marty sarbey de souto
21
SWITZERLAND
ON LOCATION NUMBER
CRUNCHING
While normally behind
the scenes heading up
Leisure Group Travel’s
art department,
Production Director
Rob Wyszkowski spread
6,400
Windows in the
his wings on a recent trip
to the Grand Canyon. Empire State Building
7
Active volcanoes
WHAT’S ONLINE? in Costa Rica
EXTRA, EXTRA,
READ ALL ABOUT IT! SIGN UP FOR
many articles in leisure group travel
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directing readers to a story that appears
E-NEWSLETTERS
InSite is our brand of content-rich
e-newsletters. we currently publish the
41
Fireplaces in
only on our website. these “extras” expand weekly insite on leisure group travel, Hearst Castle
on the subject in print or cover other plus monthly insites for the religious,
destinations in the same region. we always student, cruise and sports markets.
have much more to tell you than space Subscribe to any InSite e-newsletter
allows, so watch for “Online Exclusive” @ http://leisuregrouptravel.com/
icons and log on to LeisureGroupTravel.com. subscribe/insite-subscriptions.
70,000
ELEVATING SEARCH Population of
St. Gallen, Switzerland
we’re excited to introduce
GroupTravelDirectory.com 5, the easiest
way to plan your next group vacation.
integrated maps, intuitive search bars, one-
click contact with suppliers and complete
social media integration make this the best
GroupTravelDirectory.com yet! save
13,770
favorites in your trip ideas bucket – email
Height in feet of
them to yourself, print, or map out a new trip. the Grand Teton
Log on and check it out!
1886
Year the Statue of
Liberty was dedicated
32
Switzerland Tourism Photos
Boeing 747s that could fit
inside Mall of America
on my mind ❖
On My Mind jeff gayduk Vol. 22, No. 2 April 2012
❖ jeff gayduk
Editorial & Advertising Office
621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406
Willowbrook, IL 60527
P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652
info@ptmgroups.com
Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk
It’s Showtime! jeff@ptmgroups.com
Managing Editor – Randy Mink
randy@ptmgroups.com
Senior Editor – Dave Bodle
Welcome to the annual theater readers tell us that they like this maga- dave@ptmgroups.com
issue of Leisure Group Travel, our zine for the great travel ideas our editorial
Director, Design & Production – Robert Wyszkowski
showcase of live entertainment across team digs up, not extra large pictures of rob@ptmgroups.com
the United States. seafood.
You can’t cover theater and not
include New York! As Randy Mink onlIne – AlWAyS GroWInG
Regional Business Development Managers
articulates in “Broadway Boom” (pg. 52), At press-time we are flipping the switch Illinois – Jim McCurdy
from Spider-Man to Blue Man, there’s on the latest version of our uber-cool P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652
jim@ptmgroups.com
lots new on the Big Apple theater scene. directory search engine, GroupTravel-
Traveling west on I-78 opens up a Directory.com. Version 5 takes the art
Northeast &
whole world of theatrical possibilities in of search to a new level where you can Eastern Midwest/Canada – Harry Peck
Pennsylvania – dinner shows, big-time plan a complete group vacation online. P 330.830.4880 • F 630.794.0652
harry@ptmgroups.com
concert halls and historical venues. The site is comprehensive without being
Newcomer Coley Nelson covers eight daunting. Big maps help you zero in on Mid Atlantic – Ellen Klesta
must-see theaters in “Curtain Call,” geographic regions. Easy search bars P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652
ellen@ptmgroups.com
page 46. help refine look-ups. Browse videos,
This issue also has a strong interna- photo galleries and supplier deals in a Southeast/West Coast – Cheryl Rash
tional flair, with two of my favorite desti- new “Groups Wanted” section. P 563.613.3068 • F 815.225.5274
cheryl@ptmgroups.com
nations – Costa Rica (Lance Harrell, Our new TourItineraries.com website
pg. 18) and Switzerland (Don Heimburger, is growing nicely. Already with 250+ fresh Southern – Dolores Ridout
pg. 21). Though separated by 5,800 itineraries for your group, by summer’s P/F 281.762.9546
dolores@ptmgroups.com
miles, the commonality between the two publishing of this magazine’s fifth annual
is their natural beauty and commitment Itinerary Planning Guide we’ll have over Florida & Caribbean – Evelyn Stetler
to environmental tourism. 500 posted. P 321.235.6002 • F 321.235.6094
evelyn@ptmgroups.com
We are always trying to make Not to be outdone, our flagship
Leisure Group Travel the most readable website, LeisureGroupTravel.com, will The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no
responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to
publication in the group travel market. debut a new look in May. It’s the most ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that
listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos,
We continue to roll out design and visited magazine site in group travel slides or manuscripts.
content changes to further your reading according to Compete.com, driving 2.5 Leisure Group Travel (ISSN-1531-1406) is published
bi-monthly by Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc. 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406,
Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to
enjoyment. Wider columns, bigger times as many visitors per month as our qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and
other travel organizations. Other travel-related suppliers may subscribe at the
pictures and a more readable font are nearest competitor. reduced rate of $12.00 per year. The regular subscription price for all others is
$18.00 per year. Single copies are $4.95 each.
just a few recent enhancements. These We’ve been doing online “right” for a
are done within the context of a trade long time. I’m proud of our accomplish- Send Address Change to:
magazine as we strive to focus on the ments, and what’s to come. Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc.
P.O. Box 609, Palos Heights, IL 60463
written word, understanding it’s the most
Enjoy the show!
important element of a good magazine.
A publication
I have seen other magazines take re-
All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any
designs to excess by removing complete form without written permission of the publisher.
editorial sections for ginormous photos. Jeffrey Gayduk, Publisher
That’s awesome…if you’re Vogue, but jeff@ptmgroups.com
6 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.com
On Tour ❖ marty sarbey de souto, ctc
isn’t it time for a Cruise
Close to home?
Many of us think of a cruise as a wears the title of president proudly. winter journeys between Memphis and
romantic trip to somewhere far away The company is known for small, New Orleans. Itineraries range from
and exotic – or at least different from informal, yacht-like cruising on U.S- three to 10 nights. Antebellum decor
what we see and do at home in our registered and U.S.-crewed ships that and showboat-style entertainment will
daily lives. Our travelers may be carry 66-98 passengers. The itineraries be featured, including Dixieland jazz,
dreaming of the day they can board a are particularly appealing to active, swing and Big Band music. (greatamer-
sea-going cruise ship to historic ports mature travelers. Its founder designed icansteamboatcompany.com)
of the Mediterranean or the colorful ships with a retractable pilot house to American Cruise Lines offers trips
islands of the Caribbean. But perhaps allow for passage under low bridges, that emphasize American history and
just thinking of traveling so far from and many of its ships feature low culture. The Queen of the West is
home, or being so distanced from ramps in the bow to allow one to walk running seven-night trips on the
family and friends or the safety of right off the vessel onto the beach. Columbia and Snake rivers through
known surroundings, may make them The company’s unique itineraries Washington and Oregon following in
push this trip to the back burner in include the Erie Canal, a 10-day trip the steps of Lewis and Clark’s expedi-
order of priorities in their lives. along the East Coast called “Cultures tion. Another itinerary, called “New
Yet, perhaps you could bring the
cruise experience to these same Hook travelers on a domestic cruise and
close-to-home folks if you lured them
into their first such trip on a North they’ll go farther next time
American river or coastal trip. Once
they have that first cruise under their
belts, they’re more likely to travel on and Traditions – Charleston to the England Islands,” sails out of Provi-
future cruises with you, looking back Chesapeake” and three itineraries dence, R.I. and visits Nantucket,
on that first happy experience. And, on the Mississippi. Also of interest is Martha’s Vineyard, Newport and more.
for those who have led a life that a New York-to-Toronto trip, cruising “Great Rivers of Florida” includes
included past cruises, but now in their the Hudson, St. Lawrence Seaway, Ocala National Forest, St. Augustine
senior years may be less active or Thousand Islands and on to Quebec and Amelia Island, ending in Jack-
less affluent, a closer-to-home cruise and Montreal. (blountsmallshipadven- sonville. (americancruiselines.com)
may be just the ticket. tures.com) Of course, one shouldn’t forget our
own states of Alaska and Hawaii to
WatER, WatER EVERyWhERE DiXiELanD anD aLL that JaZZ round out the mix of endless possibili-
But where can you send them and Another possibility is the Great ties right here at home. So whether
with which companies? There are a American Steamboat Company’s you select ships big or small, sedate
number of opportunities you may wish paddlewheeler, the 436-passenger or rollicking good fun, East or West,
to explore – many of them are what American Queen. April 2012 is the long- our country has a panoply of options –
we often call “small ship cruising.” awaited comeback of this, the third right in our own back yard.
The first might be Blount Small Ship “Queen” of the former Delta Queen
Cruises (formerly known as American Steamboat Company. She will ply the
Marty is a Certified Travel Counselor who
Canadian Caribbean Line). The new Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee rivers, designs and leads tours. Her travel industry
consulting and educational firm is Sarbey
name is a tribute to founder Captain with special fall foliage cruises slated Associates (sarbeyassociates.com).
Luther Blount, whose daughter now for September into mid-November and
8 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.com
On Reunions ❖ edith wagner
What are Reunions, Anyway?
EvERyonE hAs An idEA about what very creative so they’ve not had to reconnect with important relatives.
reunions are. But since those ideas cancel or postpone reunions. They Mention of funerals is important in
spring mainly from personal experience, understand some of their members the formation of reunions because they
everyone’s ideas are different. have difficulty affording a reunion so are often the occasion when family
When I was developing Reunions they make many adjustments. They members look around the room in
magazine as a product (over 24 years cut the number of reunion days. They earnest and see a generation dying
ago), I’d posit my idea to anyone who go camping instead of staying in hotels. and other generations not connected.
would listen. At the time it was focused They have a picnic closer to home Ask anyone how their family reunion
to a great extent upon adoption/birth- instead of traveling. They have fewer started and a very high percentage will
parent reunions, which most said was activities that cost but more that are answer that someone at a funeral sug-
of no interest to them. But without free or low-cost. But they all add the gested meeting during happier times.
missing a beat, they’d say, “But let me codicil that they look forward to a time There is the strong undertone that they
tell you about my reunions”…which when they can add the extras back in. are also honoring those who are gone.
included family, class, military and Overall, reunions are still important
REUnions ARE FUn!
Often reunions are the only places where The reunion planner is a magician
who, over a year or two, develops a
cousins see one another party that can last from a couple
hours to a long weekend or even
weeks. Well-planned
other reunions. It was that last list enough that most make the sacrifice to reunions include
that really got my attention and once I plan them and to be present. access to fun and
began to review all their ideas, focus Reunions continue to be the way games that many
of the magazine began to take a 180- most people stay in touch with what
degree turn toward the kind of reunions was important in their lives (school Reunion organizers
will find valuable
people really were interested in. friends, military buddies) and what ideas in the 12th
is important to stay connected to edition of Reunions
Workbook, a step-
REUnions ARE iMPoRTAnT (families). by-step guide pub-
Reunions, everyone said, were not Reunions maintain connections to lished by Premier
Tourism Marketing
just important but “very” important. We the past and, for family reunions, to as a planning supplement to Reunions
magazine. Subjects range from choosing a
revisited the question immediately after the future. In an American society
date and location to budgeting and setting
9/11 and lately during the economic whose mobility is sometimes at warp up committees. Also covered are accom-
modations, meals, activities and fundrais-
crisis because both seemed able to speed, reunions serve the very impor- ing. To order Reunions Workbook ($9.95),
negatively affect reunions. But the tant purpose of sustaining connec- log on to groupuniversity.com.
“very” importance of reunions was tions. For many families the reunion is
maintained in both instances with a where cousins meet and bond. Early members enjoy together and reunion
slightly different point of view. After on I learned about a grandmother after reunion. And many reunions
9/11 the response was that “terrorists who, at the funeral of her husband, occur every year because for some
are not going to stop our reunion!” realized her grandchildren did not families reunion time is the only time
When, more recently, the economy know one another. So she, of course, they get together. And they cherish it.
has been the issue, it affects individuals started a family reunion. Often reunions
Edith Wagner is founder and editor of
who have problems affording the are the only places cousins see one Reunions magazine. Visit reunionsmag.com
reunion but does not affect reunion another. And if the tradition starts early for reunion planning ideas and to request a
free sample copy of the magazine.
events. Reunion planners have gotten enough, they are eager to attend to
10 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comGREAT FOOD
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Variety of Choices Fresh Salad Sensationson the record ❖
On The Record
How Can Special Events
Bolster Tour Itineraries?
FOLLOWING ARE ANSWERS
from Leisure Group Travel readers
who responded to the question:
How have you successfully
integrated special events into your
tours? What big national events,
city festivals or small-town fairs
have captivated your groups?
DAWN DORNES DIDIER HENSSEN KAY COLLINS
Tall Stacks, Customized
Ohio Travel Treasures has utilized
big events as a backdrop to tours. markt and offers group members a parades (like Albuquerque Balloon
We have found that creating special chance to experience a taste of Ger- Fiesta or Tournament of Roses
events within a national event is many. On this event we partnered Parade) or a combination of several
something that we can control. with the local CVB (DuBois County) smaller events such as a holiday
An example would be Tall Stacks and were able to procure a dinner vacation to Arizona. Almost every
in Cincinnati. Even though the function in the local monastery prior community has activities taking
event itself is a draw, with all the to opening-night events. This has place in December, and by combin-
steamboats and their billowing been a huge hit with the group tour ing several of the best, such as the
smokestacks, it is just one compo- market since it is something that has Lake Havasu Boat Parade of Lights,
nent that we put into a customized never been done before. It takes a Red Rock Fantasy in Sedona and
itinerary. We bring in major shows, little creativity to make a huge impact Zoo Lights in Phoenix, a statewide
charter our own boats and have and that is what Ohio Travel Treas- five-day itinerary becomes attractive.
even had groups watch a major artist ures is noted for—taking something Free Spirit Vacations and Events
also partners with destinations to
On a smaller city scale, we take a look at the create new special events especially
for tour operators. These are events
event and then decide if it is tour group-worthy. planned by a tour operator for tour
operators who have a loyal customer
base and need to provide reasons
create Tall Stacks prints (which each known and then adding a little for repeat guests to return to a
group member receives as a re- sparkle and controllable features. destination. Events are fresh and
membrance gift). We can control Diane Sphar, President add flavor, value, novelty and
the deposits on our own events and Ohio Travel Treasures LLC, Cincinnati, OH excitement to existing itineraries
not have to follow the non-group- and previously-visited destinations.
friendly deposits and final payments Specializing in Events Travel Several such events include
that the bigger event demands. For the past six years, Free Mesquite’s BransonFest Out West
On a smaller city scale, we take a Spirit Vacations has been moving (Mesquite, NV), HOPEFest (Palm
look at the event and then decide if it in a new direction—namely, includ- Springs area) and From Nashville
is tour group-worthy. An example is ing special events in most if not all to Memphis Festival (Nashville).
an ABA Top 100 event in Ferdinand, itineraries. Selected events may Sue Arko
Ind. This is an authentic Christkindl- be big, stand-alone festivals and Free Spirit Vacations & Events, Gilbert, AZ
12 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comCoast to Coast On a more local/regional level, we have
We have used the French Quarter
Festival in New Orleans, Albuquerque successfully incorporated many of the
Balloon Fiesta and Tournament of
Roses Parade in Pasadena with
festivals offered in our own back yard into
great success over the years. And, consistently sold-out day trips.
while we’ve never actually attended
because of the huge crowds, the
Tree Lighting at Rockefeller Center crowd navigation, we make sure to ate good sales. We’ve sold them
in New York always happens when include any special “extras,” such as straight-up but have also offered
I have groups in Manhattan for admission to the group hospitality many of them as Mystery trips.
Shoppers’ Week each December. tent at the Balloon Fiesta and Some of our favorites (and most
We always go after the crowds premium seating and admission to highly rated) that we enthusiastically
have dispersed to oooh and ahhhh the float decorating/building at the recommend are those in Historic
at this national holiday icon and Rose Parade. Downtown Franklin (especially the
almost always pause for a group On a more local/regional level, Main Street and Dickens of a Christ-
picture at the tree. This year, for we have successfully incorporated mas festivals), the CMA Festival
the first time ever, we are taking a many of the festivals offered in our (formerly Fan Fair) in Nashville,
group to the Portland (Oregon) own back yard into consistently National Cornbread Festival in
Rose Festival in June, a tour that sold-out day trips. Tennessee is South Pittsburgh, Apple Festival in
sold out immediately! abundantly blessed with these Erwin, Appalachian Folk Festival
Not only do we take the pain out of estivals and they never fail to gener- in Norris, Country Ham Festival in
LeisureGroupTravel.com April 2012 13on the record ❖
Spring Hill, Mule Day in Columbia,
Festivals are perfect for us and easy to set
Host of Christmas Past Festival in
Fayetteville, Memphis in May, Jack up. Most of them are a minimal fee so we can
Daniels Barbeque in Lynchburg,
National Storytelling Festival in sell tours affordably, plus you can just drop
Jonesborough, and the WinterFest
Lights Holiday Festival in Sevierville, them at the festival and they’re on their own.
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Each of these events has en-
hanced local itineraries and been From Wine to Cheese the Garlic Festival. New this year
used as the end-destination. My I incorporate many events we will be going to the Cheese
client club coordinators love them large and small into our tour itiner- Makers Festival in Vermont and the
because they can easily turn every- aries. We travel to the Finger Lakes War of 1812 Weekend in Platts-
one loose to explore and enjoy lunch Wine Festival, July 4 celebrations burgh, N.Y.
on their own, which keeps costs in New York, Lake George and Festivals are perfect for us and
down. Plus, these festival-based itin- Boston, Hampton Beach Seafood easy to set up. Most of them are a
eraries have stood the test of time Festival and Vermont Quilt Festival minimal fee so we can sell tours
by attracting multiple coaches for us every year. This year we are featur- affordably, plus you can just drop
and repeat visits by our groups over ing Opsail 2012 on July 1 in them at the festival and they’re on
the years. Boston, doing a harbor cruise to their own.
Melinda Hughey see the Tall Ships. We go to the Donna Schien, Tour Coordinator
The RH Factor, Pulaski, TN Hudson Valley Food Festival and Wade Tours, Schenectady, NY
TREAT YOUR GROUP to the beauty
of the Chicago Botanic Garden,
complete with a tram ride.
Chicago’s North Shore is home to many
world-class attractions and is 20 minutes from Combine with other area attractions:
downtown Chicago. You’ll find many dining • Ravinia Festival
and lodging options perfect for groups. • Illinois Holocaust Museum
For personalized assistance and to make group • Bahá’í House of Worship
reservations, contact us today. • Charles Gates Dawes House
Caryn Shulman • Fabulous Cooking Schools
847.763.0011 Ext. 25 · cshulman@cnscvb.com • Guided Architecture Tours
groups.visitchicagonorthshore.com
14 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comLeisureGroupTravel.com April 2012 15
on the record ❖
Ethnic Milwaukee ethnicities had on Milwaukee for the learn about the history and enjoy
Milwaukee hosts several annual rest of the tour. For instance, during the modern day pride of the ethnic
ethnic festivals at Henry Maier German Fest we’ll provide a city tour groups who make up Milwaukee.
Festival Park on the lakefront that explaining the influence the German At the festivals they enjoy music,
bring in many groups. Festivals such immigrants had on the city, visit a dancing, cultural exhibits, and, of
as German Fest, Festa Italiana and Bavarian-style brewery, a German course, food and drink.
Irish Fest will become part of a Catholic church, perhaps the home Kay Collins
group’s itinerary. We then focus of Captain Frederick Pabst and shop KBC Tour Company, Milwaukee, WI
on the influence those particular at Usinger’s Sausage. The visitors
Quebec’s Winter Bash
The Quebec Carnival was a huge
success with our groups this year,
with everyone taking advantage of
the secure destination that is Quebec
City, so close to all the Northeastern
states. Snow gear were on for a few
days of concentrated winter fun! With
French-Canadian culture, exhibits,
wondrous sights and activities,
Le Carnaval de Quebec is the winter
place to be.
Didier Henssen
Prométour, Montreal, Quebec
Balloons and Blooms
We are presenting the “Trains
and Canyons of the Southwest
featuring the Albuquerque Balloon
Fiesta” in October and the annual
Fiesta is a big draw for this tour. In
2010 we sold over 80 seats as we
featured the Passion Play in our
“Alpine Country and the Oberam-
Discover a better meeting destination. mergau Passion Play” tour. The “Tulip
Incredible convention and meeting facilities are only Time River Cruise” featured the
the beginning of your experience at Inn of the Mountain
Gods. From full casino action and award-winning dining local tulip festival in May and was
to championship golf and unparalleled mountain scenery, definitely the most exciting part of
even your keynote speaker will be speechless.
the trip. These are all great ways to
> 273 luxury rooms and suites > Full casino
> 40,000 sq. ft. of flexible > Ski Apache* sell a tour, and there are so many
meeting space > Fishing* more of these types of events of-
> Championship golf course* > Horseback riding*
> Fine and casual dining fered, so take advantage of them
and use them to sell your tours.
InnoftheMountainGods.com 1-800-545-6040 L. Kay Estep, GO Club Coordinator
Mescalero, NM near Ruidoso
F & M Trust Company, Chambersburg, PA
Booking info: jakazhe@innofthemountaingods.com
FULL CASINO | LUXURY RESORT | CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF | Mid-Atlantic Festivals
We have had great success with
*Weather permitting. Must be 21 or older to enter casino. The Mescalero Apache Tribe
promotes responsible gaming. For assistance, please call 1-800- GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). integrating special events into our
16 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comtours for 2012. The Star-Spangled Harbor, Md. This amazing attraction Integrating these types of special
Sailabration in Baltimore in June has drawn many of our groups (young events into our tours has made tour
has been a huge hit among our pre- and old) to experience Christmas on planning so much easier. Half the
formed groups. We offered several the Potomac. Last but not least is the work is already done for us, and
options for the groups to include annual Pella (Iowa) Tulip Time Festi- promoting the event is a breeze with
with the special events going on val. We have had a great response the help of the CVB or organization
that week—Spirit Cruise, Maryland to this wonderful package filled with sponsoring the event.
Historical Society, Ft. McHenry—to beautiful tulips, Dutch attire, parades, Dawn Dornes, Group Tour Coordinator
name a few. Our groups are very food and fun. Elite Coach, Ephrata, PA
excited about being a part of such a
wonderful celebration!
Another special event we targeted
is the Folklife Festival in Washington,
D.C. This has become a perfect
tie-in with many of the wonderful
attractions in the D.C. area and fits
well with the wide variety of groups
we work with.
The annual Azalea Festival and
International Tattoo in Norfolk has
been a long-time favorite among
our groups. It’s another wonderful
destination with a large variety of
attractions, restaurants and tours to
choose from.
We also have had great success
with the Annual ICE Attraction at the
Gaylord National Resort in National
IN THE JUNE ISSUE Group events are all about enjoying each
of Leisure Group Travel, our other’s company. So why not plan yours
On the Record column will look at in the place with the most thrilling attractions
and versatile accommodations –
online marketing. Please send us “The Waterpark Capital of the World!®”
your response to this question: Not only do we have the largest concentration
of waterparks in the world, we also have
How are you using online tools— a pretty good concentration of smiles.
websites, email, social networking— groups@wisdells.com | (800) 223-3557
to grow your business? MeetInTheDells.com
Along with your comments,
please include your name, company
name and location. Also for
publication, send a high-resolution
photo of yourself. A selection of
responses will be printed in the
June 2012 issue. Thanks in advance
for your valuable opinions.
Send to: Randy Mink,
randy@ptmgroups.com
LeisureGroupTravel.com April 2012 17on location: central america ❖ lance harrell
Costa
The
essenTial
Scenic beauty and exotic wildlife await
tour groups in this eco-tourism hotspot
n
The lush rainforest sweeps down to idyllic beaches at Manuel Antonio National Park, a slice of paradise bordering the Pacific Ocean.
estled in the cradle of the Central American subcontinent and can also explore the lowland rain forest, swamp forest,
caressed by the waters of both the Pacific Ocean and beaches and lagoons that cover the park.
Caribbean Sea lies one of the world’s last great ecological Due to the remoteness of the region, which is only acces-
treasure troves, Costa Rica. sible by boat or air, and the limited number of available
Touted as one of the greenest places on Earth, this former accommodations, it is recommended that your group use a
banana republic now prides itself on being a thriving eco- tour operator to handle the trip and that you set aside at least
tourism destination with over 25 percent of its landmass pro- two nights to avoid being rushed.
tected in national parks and preserves, more than any other
country. Manuel Antonio National Park
Let’s look at some of the highlights: Arriving in Manuel Antonio is like stepping into a postcard of
paradise. The verdant forests, bleach-white beaches and
Tortuguero National Park abundant fauna of Costa’s smallest park seduce you into a
Sprawling along the northern Caribbean coast, Tortuguero state of tranquil bliss.
National Park is one of Costa Rica’s true natural wonders. With This national park is one of only two places where you can
an endless network of canals, the park is sometimes referred see all four species of Costa Rican monkey (howler, spider,
to as the “Venice of Costa Rica.” Its name actually means squirrel and white-faced capuchin). Even outside the park
“Turtle Region,” and turtles are exactly what you will find. proper, it’s not uncommon to see them frolicking along the high
The park encompasses the nesting grounds of four species ropes that have been strung across the roads to provide them
of giant sea turtle, which evidence suggests have been using safe passage.
the area for this purpose since as early as the 1500s. Green, In addition to our primate cousins, inside the park you
hawksbill, loggerhead and giant leatherback turtles use the are likely to see sloths, crabs, red-eyed green tree frogs,
more than 21 miles of beach to lay their eggs, and guided tours bats, countless butterflies and numerous bird species. When
can be arranged to watch both the depositing of eggs and you’ve had your fill of terrestrial wildlife watching, enjoy the
emergence of baby turtles from their sandy womb. sea kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, surfing and canopy tours
Although the turtles are the star of the show here, groups that abound in the area.
18 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comRican
n aTuRe expeRienC e
The jungles of Costa Rica’s national parks abound with toucans, sloths, red-eyed green tree frogs and other intriguing creatures.
Chirripo National Park Corcovado National Park
Those who desire to take their travels to new heights flock Occupying nearly half of the Osa Peninsula along the south-
to the Talamanca Mountain Range in southern Costa Rica, ern Pacific Coast, Corcovado National Park is considered one
where Chirripo National Park boasts the tallest peak in the of the most isolated places on the planet and contains the
country. Both the Caribbean and Pacific are visible on a clear largest continuous expanse of virgin lowland rainforest in
day from the summit. Central America. If you can stand up to the nearly 250 inches
Near the trailhead outside the park are lodges where you of annual rainfall and oppressive heat and humidity, you will be
will sleep before starting the 5 a.m. hike. The number of able to count the experience among the greatest of your life.
people allowed in the park at one time is limited, so be sure to Home to an unbelievable abundance of fauna, including
secure your passes several months in advance, especially if more than 150 species of mammals, 120 species of amphib-
your group is large. ians and reptiles, and 380 species of birds, the park is within
The hike itself can be grueling, but it is far from impossible day-trip reach of Cano Island Biological Reserve.
even for the amateur hiker. You’ll ascend approximately 7,000
feet along the nine miles of trail, reaching the lodge where you Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
will spend the night before climbing the final 1,500 feet to the Long before you reach the end of the steep and winding
12,532-foot summit. dirt road that approaches the town of Monteverde, you will
While an experienced hiker can reach the peak and return understand the origins of its name, which translates into
in a day, I recommend taking a slower pace and spending at “Green Mountain.”
least one night at the lodge so as not to miss the other sites, The area was originally settled by Quakers from the United
including secondary trails and one-of-a-kind sunsets. You are States in 1951. Recognizing the need to preserve the rare
also likely to encounter tapir, white-lipped peccary, puma, cloud forest that blankets the mountaintop, they set aside a
jaguar, ocelot, jaguarondi, rabbit, coyote and a variety of frogs large tract of adjacent land that eventually became Monteverde
and other small amphibians. Among the birds in the region Biological Cloud Forest Reserve in 1972.
are the dazzling quetzal, black-faced solitaire, hummingbirds, Shrouded in the misty air of the reserve’s 25,688 acres is
flycatchers, wood creepers and warblers. hidden an unbelievable diversity of life, with more than 2,500
LeisureGroupTravel.com April 2012 19on location: central america ❖ Obtain International visitor guides and itineraries and contact group-
friendly suppliers directly at leisuregrouptravel.com/instant-info
plant species, of which 400 are orchid species, plus 400
Monteverde Cloud Forest
different bird species and over 100 species of mammals. has six hanging bridges.
Cahuita National Park
If you are looking for a true Caribbean experience, Cahuita’s
reggae rhythms, blue-green waters and tranquil pace will
not leave you wanting. This small, charming town has been a
mecca for the hippie and backpacker crowd for years, due
in no small part to Cahuita National Park, which abuts its south-
ern end.
The park encompasses a 55,000-acre marine park that
includes a magnificent coral reef, one of the largest in the
Caribbean. Snorkeling and diving in the park are tightly con-
trolled, but you will have no trouble finding a licensed guide
that can take you to a few of the more hard-to-find areas.
However, if swimming with the resplendent blue parrotfish Costa Rica offers groups a variety ecological travel options,
or angelfish is not your cup of seawater, then take a stroll along but the experiences in the country are by no means limited to
the four-mile trail that skirts the coastline and stake out an that arena. Costa Rica also has many language learning, cul-
isolated spot on the endless white sand beach. While soaking tural exchange, volunteerism, adventure tourism and luxury
up the sun and listening to the waves gently lapping against the experiences available as well. For more information on all of
sand, do not be surprised to encounter the occasional sloth, these options, keep an eye out at LeisureGroupTravel.com for
monkey or iguana that has come to share the experience. our upcoming series of Site InSpections on Costa Rica. LGTSwitzerland
AttrActs religious trAvel groups
St. Gallen, a town of ecclesiastical treasures and
Old World charm, observes a special anniversary
By Don HeimburgerF
aith travel groups have a particu- lection of books reveals the development The Abbey Llibrary contains 150,000
larly enticing reason to venture to of European culture and documents the volumes, but its true treasure lies in the
Switzerland in 2012. Abbey of St. Gall from the 8th century to manuscript collection. Roughly 2,000
That’s because one of the country’s the monastery’s dissolution in 1805. manuscripts are archived, and some
most important faith destinations is cel- During its first few centuries, the 400 are more than 1,000 years old.
ebrating 1,400 years of religious tradi- abbey grew rapidly, becoming a flour- Particularly significant are the Irish-
tion. St. Gallen’s Jubilee this year looks ishing spiritual and cultural center, fa- Celtic manuscripts. Although many of
back on more than a millennium of reli- mous for its writings and the illumination them were lost, the collection is one of
gious heritage and will feature an array of manuscripts. A number of the abbey’s the most important in the world. Also
of festivities to mark the occasion. invaluable is the Latin-German dictionary
that originated in 790; it is the oldest
ST. GALLEN ON DISPLAY IN 2012 German book known to exist.
St. Gallen, population 70,000, is History shows that around 612 AD
close to Lake Constance and nearby an Irish monk from Belfast named
Mt.Säntis and is a gateway to the tow- Gallus built a hermitage and a house of
ering Appenzell Alps. It is the capital prayer in the Steinbach Valley here. It is
city of the canton of the same name. said that Saint Gallus, upon first walk-
An economic center and railway hub ing through the area toward Rome with
Weinstein Castle vineyards,
for Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen is St. Gallen Rhine Valley other monks, became ill and was left on
internationally renowned for its textile in- the shores of nearby Lake Constance
dustry, which dates to the 15th century. creative monks made important contri- to recuperate. When Gallus was better,
The town’s most famous landmark is butions to the cultural history of Europe. he came to a clearing near the Stein-
its Baroque cathedral and the Abbey Between 1758 and 1767, abbots bach River, and approached by a hun-
Library, which houses thousands of pre- Cölestin Gugger von Staudach and Beda gry bear, offered the bear some food.
cious historical documents, some hand- Angehrn commissioned building of the In return, the bear brought Gallus wood
written and some more than 1,000 years library’s magnificent Baroque hall, which for a fire, and Gallus took that as a sign
old. The library, open for tours, is one of was decorated and furnished by master he should build a church, which was the
the most important monastic libraries in craftsmen from the Lake Constance Monastery of St. Gallus. Today, many
the world and has been designated a region. The hall is considered to be one icons of the monk and the bear can be
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its col- of the finest of its kind. located in town.
Switzerland Tourism Photos
View towards Mt. Kronberg
and Mt. Saentis, Canton AppenzellA Baroque jewel: The magnificent hall
of St. Gallen’s Abbey Library
Gallus’ Irish ancestry forms an impor- region of St. Gallen will celebrate with Center will make the Abbey District
tant part of this tradition, which has been tours, theater performances, a variety of more welcoming, and new signage will
handed down through generations, says outings, art exhibitions and culinary make it easier to navigate.
St. Gallen Tourism Director Boris specialties in city-center restaurants. An opening-day ceremony in the
Tschirky. “The 2012 Gallus Anniversary “The 2012 Gallus Anniversary is Cathedral and inauguration of the
will draw on this. The bond with Ireland intended to astonish, delight and touch Visitors Center, opening of residents’
has always been an important part of the people, to encourage them to reflect homes in the Abbey District for small
remembrance of Gallus; within the and to inspire them,” St. Gallen Mayor events, a culinary market, street artists
framework of the anniversary, this bond Thomas Scheitlin says. and musicians in more than 22 locations,
is both maintained and deepened.” The main focus of Jubilee 2012 will and a festival in the Old Town will be part
be in the Abbey District, a UNESCO of the anniversary celebration. The
JUBILEE EVENTS World Heritage Site, and the surround- Abbey Library will display manuscripts
Between April and October, the ing Old Town. A newly-created Visitors and prints that document life in the area.a Call to
adventure
ZURICH AND LUCERNE
For many groups, Zurich’s airport
will be the gateway to Switzerland.
Lucerne to host annual meeting Christianity in Zurich, home of the Swiss
of adventure travel specialists Reformation, began in the 4th century.
Zurich made a significant mark in
Christian history in the 16th century
when the city council voted to become a
Protestant city. Catching a train or other
convenient transportation from Zurich to
other historical faith sites is easy.
Lucerne, one hour by train from
Zurich, traces its roots to the St. Leode-
gar monastery, a small 8th century
Benedictine cloister on the Reuss
River. For centuries people and goods
have passed this way to and from the
Gotthard Pass, and pilgrims have
mountains to on-top-of-the-world views
I f your group is like a lot of adventure trav-
elers, cutting-edge sports and stimulating
outdoor activities are the name of the game.
in a short period of time. An interconnected,
well-planned transportation system, from
followed St. Jacob’s Way to Santiago
through Lucerne. The stretch between
Switzerland has been at the forefront of trains and cable cars to chairlifts and Schwarzenburg and Fribourg includes
exciting travel quests for decades. With funiculars, can easily handle groups who the 600-year-old Frybourgstrass, a
glaciers, lush forests and nature parks, want to get to their jumping-off point
extensive hiking paths and mountain huts, quickly and easily. Conveniently, major cities path that leads through forests and
resplendent lakes and rushing streams, this are in close proximity to mountain resorts. over streams, past castle ruins,
eye-popping country rates high on the At the end of an active day you’ll find chapels and shrines.
adventure charts. some of the best cheese (like Vacherin
Lucerne is the springboard for trips
In addition to the many adventure Mont d’O), chocolates and hospitality
activities, the Swiss Alps’ jagged peaks, awaiting you at the many hotels, bed and to numerous lakeside communities and
gushing waterfalls and postcard-worthy breakfasts, and pensions. To carb-up for attractions, all accessible via Lake
alpine villages are a visual delight. the next day’s adventure, Swiss fondue, Lucerne Navigation Company’s 20
The diversity of climates, moreover, raclette and rosti dishes await the hungry
boats. Since 1837 these boats have
gives outdoor lovers a wealth of choices. adventurer, along with a good glass of
In one day you can go from snow-capped wine or beer. And the Swiss are known been a vital link in the area’s trans-
summits to lakes lined with palm trees in also for their excellent spa facilities that portation system, carrying passengers
the Italian-speaking Ticino region, known treat the weary traveler after a long, in style and offering delicious meals
for its Mediterranean lifestyle. hard day.
The list of activities for the serious It’s no wonder then that the Adventure and snacks on board. The boats are
adventurer is long. You can go parasailing Travel Trade Association has scheduled its available for group charters.
on the many exquisite lakes, or mountain ninth annual Adventure Travel World Summit Lucerne-area attractions accessible
climbing or hiking in the regions of Lucerne, for Oct. 8-11 at the Culture and Congress
by lake boats, trains or buses include:
Zermatt or the Bernese Oberland, all Center in Lucerne. As many as 600 adventure
spectacularly beautiful areas. You can go tourism professionals from more than 50 • 6,995-foot-high Mt. Pilatus, home
boating, hang gliding, kayaking or sailing nations will gather in this supreme adventure of the world’s steepest cogwheel rail-
in the central part of the country, or snow- travel destination. way, where you can get a 360-degree
boarding, skiing, swimming or bicycling in As Mark Twain once said, “Twenty years
view of Switzerland. A day excursion to
the Jura Mountains. These mountains are from now you will be more disappointed
dotted with caves—some of the largest in by the things you didn’t do than by the the “Dragon Mountain” can include a
Switzerland—and covered with forests and ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, spectacular ride down by aerial cable-
unique geological formations. The area also sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the way and panorama gondola.
has the longest hiking season of any of trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream.
the country’s mountain regions, so it’s Discover.” • Mt. Rigi, “Queen of the Mountains,”
great for a spring or fall trip. Switzerland is ready for the adventurer offers breathtaking views of the Swiss
Numerous groups come to Switzerland in all of us. From rails to sails to trails, from Alps, 13 lakes and views as far away
each year to inhale the fresh air, test their hikes to bikes, from skiing to snowshoeing,
as Germany and France. The railway
endurance and soak in the sights. You can this small country is the essence of big
go from level plateaus to mid-range adventure. to the top features old-fashioned
24 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comLucerne’s trademark covered bridge on Lake Lucerne
steam trains, which can be chartered. inscriptions, an Anabaptists Bridge and For information on the 2012 Gallus
Numerous hiking paths thread the even the Anabaptists Archives with Anniversary and heritage tourism in
mountainside. unpublished documents. Switzerland, visit gallusjubilaeum.ch or
The Museum of the Reformation is a myswitzerland.com/heritage.
SO MANY OPTIONS must-see in Geneva. The building once
Switzerland offers many other faith served as an apartment complex for GETTING AROUND SWITZERLAND
travel options, such as a monastery or Huguenot refugees; it in turn is built on Faith-based travel planners have a
abbey stay; the convent of St. Muestair the ruins of St. Peter’s cloister. Some of number of good reasons to bring their
offers an overnight in a mountain hut. the oldest French language Bibles in the groups to St. Gallen and other historic
The Abbey of Einsiedeln, an hour east world, plus Calvin’s biblical commen- Swiss religious sites:
of Lucerne, is the home of the Black taries, are found here, as are caricatures Zurich’s location in the heart of
Madonna and has attracted the devout and pamphlets used to argue Protestant Europe makes it a convenient entry
for 1,000 years. or Catholic perspectives. point (70 airlines fly into the airport). The
In the Jura region west of Lucerne is Switzerland provides numerous reli- Zurich airport has been named on nu-
the Anabaptist Trail where Anabaptists gious travel possibilities, and the main merous occasions as “Europe’s Leading
fled in the 17th century. Here you can question will be: When does your group Airport.” Zurich offers easy access to a
visit secret meeting places with early want to go? number of Swiss attractions and other
countries.
The Swiss travel system is one of
the most advanced in the world, from
The world’s steepest
cogwheel railway
swift cross-country trains, to buses that
climbs to the top connect major cities with rural areas, to
of Mt. Pilatus.
lake boats, aerial cableways and moun-
tain railways that further make travel so
convenient in this country of eight million
people. Surprisingly, 97% of the Swiss
people live within two miles walking
distance of public transportation. A Swiss
Pass entitles groups to unlimited travel
on numerous modes of transport and
offers free entrance to 450 museums (in-
cluding the Abbey Library in St. Gallen).
The Swiss, while having four official
languages (German, French, Italian and
Romansch), for the most part also speak
English. LGT
LeisureGroupTravel.com April 2012 25on location: south ❖ dave bodle
SOUTHERN
MANSIONS
Maymont, an example
of Gilded Age opulence
in Richmond, Va.,
boasts 33 rooms.
Plantations, cabins and other
homes steeped in history
enhance itineraries in the
11 Travel South states
he South’s mountain ranges, endless plains, abundant
T harbors and magnificent rivers can all tell stories of our
nation’s history. However, if walls in the historic homes
could talk, what wonderful tales they might spin. From palatial
plantations to humble cabins, so much of our culture can be
seen and experienced. Each home is unique for its residents,
Savoring a taste of Old England
during Summer City Fest at its use and its place in our past.
Agecroft Hall in Richmond, Va.
VIRGINIA
Virginia’s presidential homes or its James River Plantations
may come to mind first, but just off I-95 in Richmond two spe-
cial houses welcome groups.
A visit to Agecroft Hall is a step into 15th century Europe.
Built in England during the late 1600s, Agecroft was the home
to the distinguished Langley and Dauntesey families. Upon
falling into disrepair it was purchased at auction in 1925 by
Richmonder Thomas C. Williams. He had it dismantled, crated,
shipped across the Atlantic and reassembled in a Richmond
neighborhood known as Windsor Farms. With authentic pieces
from as early as 1485 to 1660, the Tudor estate brims with his-
tory. (agecrofthall.com)
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often termed
America’s Gilded Age, vast fortunes were amassed. Maymont,
its 100 acres and 25 outbuildings are a testimony to the wealth
of James Dooley and his wife Sallie. The Dooleys’ gift of May-
26 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comWhere every visit creates
lasting memories
Motorcoach travelers know that Pigeon Forge is the perfect place to make
memories. Could be because there’s so much to see and do here … shopping,
shows, Dollywood® or the majestic beauty of our Smoky Mountains. Or it could
be that warm welcome they receive, kind of like visiting an old friend. Whatever
the reason, they know that every visit creates memories that will last a lifetime. PigeonForgeTours.com
1-800-285-7557
LeisureGroupTravel.com April 2012 27on location: south ❖
mont to the City of Richmond is a tribute to their generosity. The Franklin B. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Mu-
Watch for the 24th annual Maymont Flower & Garden Show, a seum in Myrtle Beach serves residents and visitors of Horry
spectacular event held in early February at the Richmond Con- and Georgetown counties. In 1924 textile mogul Eugene Can-
vention Center. (maymont.org) non built a large wood-frame, oceanfront cottage in what is
today Myrtle Beach. Twenty years later the house was sold to
WEST VIRGINIA another textile titan, Colonel Elliot White Springs. By 1975 the
Today so much of West Virginia’s appeal is tied to its spec- house was being surrounded by high-rise condominium build-
tacular mountains and outdoor recreation. Early settlers, ings and the family traded the villa for a new home. Through
though, farmed a rich, fertile land and played an important role generous donations and community effort, the home by 1997
in the Civil War. had been moved to its present location and established as a
In Philippi you’ll find Adaland Mansion and Historic Barn. wonderful art museum with expansive ocean views. (myrtle-
The barn was built in 1850 and the brick mansion followed in beachartmuseum.org)
1870. The original owners farmed, and emancipated slaves Just off I-95 in Yemassee sits the Frampton House, serv-
from the farm worked on the construction of the house. In June ing as the Lowcountry Visitors Center and Museum. The house
of 1861 the first land battle of the Civil War was fought in was part of the original King’s Grant to the Frampton family in
Philippi. (adaland.org) the 1700s, but in 1865 the house was burned by General Sher-
Although the most famous battles of the Civil War took man’s troops. Rebuilt in 1868 in today’s location, the house
place in other states, West Virginia experienced its share of saw major renovations in 1930. In 1993 Wymann Boozer do-
tragedy. The Dr. Robert B. McNutt House was the only build- nated the Frampton House for creation of the visitors center.
ing left standing in Princeton after the town was burned during (southcarolinalowcountry.com)
the Civil War. It was used as headquarters for Lt. Col. Ruther-
ford B. Hayes and Sgt. William McKinley, who both went on to GEORGIA
become U.S. presidents. (pmccc.com/mcnutt_history.htm) Few Southern states have cities matching the cosmopolitan
sizzle of Atlanta, but we often forget that Georgia is also a win-
NORTH CAROLINA dow to our past.
From the coast to the mountains the historic homes of North Located on the Georgia College campus in Milledgeville,
Carolina reveal much about our culture and spirit. Two in par- the Old Governor’s Mansion was completed in 1839.
ticular play to our creativity. As the residence of Georgia’s chief executives from 1839-
Affiliated with Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, the 1868, the National Historic Landmark showcases the
Reynolda House Museum of American Art is the restored antebellum, Civil War and Reconstruction eras. Slavery, the
19th century country home of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Com- difficulty of the social order and gender positions all shaped
pany founder. In addition to works by Mary Cassatt, Fredric the history of the building. On Nov. 22, 1864, Gen. William
Church, Jacob Lawrence and Georgia O’Keeffe, the museum T. Sherman claimed the mansion during his March to the
features changing exhibits. (reynoldahouse.org) Sea. (gcsu.edu/mansion)
The memory and literary insights of author Carl Sandburg The Isaiah Davenport House in Savannah portrays an
are on display at Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, appealing story of the American Dream both then and now.
located in Connemare (near Asheville and Henderson). The The tale begins with a young New England carpenter
National Park Service is the steward of this first historic site to achieving success in his adopted city. A demonstration of
honor an American poet. Sandburg, an Illinois native, moved his building skills, Davenport’s fine home, noted “for the
there in 1945. More than one third of his works were penned in simplicity of the exterior and the charm of the interior,”
this peaceful, 262-acre farm setting. (nps.gov/carl) housed his family and the enslaved people that worked for
him. In the mid-19th century the house passed out of the
SOUTH CAROLINA Davenports’ hands and became a dilapidated tenement by
With Charleston’s colorful Rainbow Battery, the magnifi- the mid-20th century. The work of seven Savannah women
cent rice plantations and the Upstate homes from the colonial coming together in 1955 saved the house and led to the
era, South Carolina is a treasure chest of history. South Car- founding of the Historic Savannah Foundation. (davenport-
olinians, an ingenious people, have put many of those great housemuseum.org)
homes to work.
28 April 2012 LeisureGroupTravel.comThe art of COUNTRY, BLUES
and ROCK ’N’ ROLL .
Blues in Helena-West Helena
Entertainers Hall of Fame, Pine Bluff
Go on tour around The Natural State – cruise the Rock ’N’ Roll Johnny Cash Music Festival, Jonesboro
Highway to visit the places where legends were made, explore
the musical birthplaces of the Delta, and pay respect to the
greats in the Entertainers Hall of Fame.
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ArkansasGroupTravel.com
or call 1-800-872-1259
un i q u e vi s it s
DeGray Lake Resor t State Park
888-AT-PARKS • ArkansasSt at eParks.comYou can also read
