COVID-19 is Messing with Our Travel Dreams, Big and Small
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
6,694 Active Members • 54,454 Members Since 1979 AUG. / SEPT. | VOL. 42 | NO. 1 2020
COVID-19 is Messing with Our Travel Dreams, Big and Small
By Mark Hoffmann
The COVID-19 Virus has rocked the on longer trips, the inclusion of upscale traveling with someone from outside your
world of travel. It has caused many to pull meals and attractions, more leisurely/longer household, you will also have the option
back or cancel plans to visit exotic places itineraries; these are all Sports Leisure of an empty seat next to you if you wish.
and forced the cancellation or alteration of signature items. They are a big part of the (Couples traveling together will be seated
simple things like theatrical performances way we travel together because YOU and together, that’s the only way this will work.)
and important moments like graduation. the travelers who came before you told us Masks/face shields must be worn on the
Some companies have disappeared. We what you wanted. bus at all times, unless a traveler is eating
will not be one of them. As a company, we Now life is different. This invisible virus or drinking. We are sorry, there can be no
are learning how to deal with the virus on is floating around. It’s certainly not the first exception to this rule. (The fake medical
some level while we await a vaccine. time in history this has happened, but it’s cards are not going to get it done here.)
I’ve owned Sports Leisure Vacations serious. More serious for folks in certain I really don’t like the masks either. But it’s
since its beginning; June 8, 1979. Over 41 categories, less for others. Many trips have the best way to protect each other for now.
years. Two-thirds of a lifetime. So I’m pretty been cancelled, long and short. Others If the mask is something you just can’t do,
attached to the place. Sports Leisure have been reworked. try a face shield. You’ll look a little different,
Vacations IS DIFFERENT from many of our Inside you will find a limited number of but then, some of us already have that
fellow tourism businesses. What makes us day trips and a chart showing you how bus challenge… of looking/being a little different.
different is 1) Our Travelers and 2) The Way seating might look for now (page 6). If you If you forget your mask, we are happy to
We Travel. are in a high risk category and cannot travel provide you one.
We have always been out front in our until there is a vaccination, we understand. Please note that the masks with a
industry. That’s due to our innovation and We will miss you, for certain. Stay safe. ventilator opening will not be accepted.
your acceptance of our slightly ahead of their For those who can travel, we are starting The purpose of the mask is to filter what
times ideas. Smaller numbers of travelers to see some trips move ahead. Day trip you breathe in and out. That can’t be done
groups will be smaller, and because of that, effectively with an open valve. Please don’t
INSIDE THIS ISSUE bus costs will be shared by fewer travelers, make the masks an issue. They are there to
Just One Man’s Opinion............................. 2 so the cost will increase a bit. Longer tours provide a measure of two-way protection. If
Clayton Place............................................. 3 shouldn’t go up in price much, because we you decline to wear one where designated,
Human Side............................................... 4 already limit our extended tours to 25-30 we will not allow you to travel on tour with us
people. until the masks are no longer needed.
Daycations................................................. 5
Face masks or shields must be worn by It’s looking like some of our trips will
Barber Pole................................................ 6
every traveler at all times while with the operate in the fall and into the holiday
Vacation Preview Day / Zoom Bingo.......... 7
group, on the coach, at meals, etc. There season. I don’t have a magic genie, but
Previously Announced Tours................. 8-15
cannot be exceptions. If you cannot wear treatments and vaccines appear to be within
Coupons and Tour Updates..................... 16 a mask or a face shield, we cannot include reach.
HHHHHHHHHHHH you in our groups at this time. As has been the case for 41 years, if
Editor....................................Mark Hoffmann Seating on the coach will be a bit you have a concern, please don’t hesitate
Executive Editor.............Clayton Whitehead different. If you are traveling alone, and to call me at our office, or write to me at
Writers & Photographers............... SLV Staff wish to be seated without someone next Markslt@aol.com.
to you, you will have that option. If you are
9812 Old Winery Place, Suite 1 • Sacramento, CA 95827 • (916) 361-2051 • Toll-Free (800) 951-5556
Sports Leisure •Vacations
www.sportsleisure.com • CA Travel
/ August – September 1
2020 #2011549-40
Just One Man’s Opinion by Mark Hoffmann
Throughout my life, I have been fortunate in the mornings, I knew I was in trouble. meeting, someone announced Lynn Holton
to have a safety net. It just so happens I’m Indeed, it took 200 credits to graduate, and was very sick and suggested we might want
one of those people who needs one. All of I was only going to get to 190. Tough times, to include a visit on our schedule.
us are good at some things, not quite so but I went off to work at the March of Dimes I got some red (Mira Loma red of course)
good at others. In my personal case, the and graduation was left behind. I thought roses and headed to Lynn’s house. Her son
differences can be massive. Surely you about going to junior college the next year (obviously an angel) was there helping out.
know someone or ones like me. I could and getting the credits, but for a variety We spent over an hour letting the memories
tell you the lifetime batting average of a of reasons, that was a mountain I couldn’t flow. Eventually, the part of the story where
baseball star or the diamond rating of a far climb at the time. I became determined Mark doesn’t graduate came up. But this
away hotel, but might not be able to tell you to make the lack of a high school diploma is where this story takes the most amazing
the names of two different hammers if you a reason to succeed. (Indeed, Sports twist.
held them in front of me. Leisure Vacations would be born only six “Mark, I just knew that someday you were
From time to time, like every day, what years later.) As time went on, the diploma going to come back and get that diploma, so
seems like smarts gets in the way of common has been mostly forgotten. Until recently. I put it in the safe. It stayed there for many,
sense. Hard to explain. But what is easier to Several years ago, I volunteered to be many years waiting for you,” Lynn shared.
explain is that people like me need people a part of the Board of Directors for the Hearing Lynn’s words really took me
like Lynn Holton. Lynn was the principal’s alumni group for my high school. They only by surprise. The principal’s secretary,
secretary at Mira Loma High School during cared you had been a student, so my lack who really didn’t know me that well (or so
my time there (1969-73). Actually, she held on official diploma wasn’t important. We I thought), believed in me when not many
that position for over four decades. organize different events for and with the people did. Through all the times I had to
In high school, I was always in the middle school, raise a little money and give it back bother her to get to the man or woman at
of some event or something which required to the teachers in the form of “mini-grants” the top, she had faith in me. How ironic our
the permission of the “higher ups.” Which to help fill in the times the district doesn’t paths went in different directions until now.
explains why I was frequently in the vicinity or can’t provide. One night, at a board What an incredible blessing to get to know
of the principal’s office. Lynn was the “the rest of the story.”
gatekeeper for the leader of the school, two Lynn is hanging in there. I went back
men and then a woman during my time at last week with a former teacher and alumni
Mira Loma. If you needed to get some crazy board member and we spent a long time
idea approved by the man or lady in charge, talking old school stories. The memories
you had to go through Lynn first. flow like water and the time flies by. I know
She wasn’t a pushover, but I remember there won’t be many more visits, but I’m
feeling she was “on my side,” when it came hoping for at least one or two. It’s an honor
to getting the go ahead for new student to be able to spend time with someone who
body ideas. She could “grease the rails” or believed in you, even when you could barely
give your idea the “not so sure about this” see through the rain. There just aren’t many
approach when she ran it by the boss. Lynn people like that who join you on life’s journey.
was always fair, always smiling and most of You never know who’s looking over you.
the time, on my side. Thank you Lynn, for believing in a young
My time in high school was, well, a man who wasn’t sure what direction he was
challenge. I missed some classes in my going. He made it. Thanks, in no small part,
sophomore year and when I had to work my to wonderful angels like you.
senior year and could only attend school Lynn and Mark, best friends for life
And so it goes…
We appraise and/or buy old coins
Just about everyone has a jar of old coins sitting around.
Turn those coin collections, big and small, into cash. Mark
was a coin dealer in his previous life and is interested in
expanding his collection. Call for an appointment to have Mark Hoffmann, CTP
your coins appraised and/or purchased. Find out what your
Owner/Founder
treasures are worth! 916-361-2051 and ask for Bob or Mark.
2 Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020
Clayton Place
The Shows Must Go On . . . of steep stairs with no handrails. A stop is hit the road and is headed our way late next
Theatres all across NorCal are ramping included at Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch on year! Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower
up, hopeful to raise their curtains again next your own prior to the matinee performance. seller, becomes the “student” of linguistics
year. Dates are firm, but prices are based on Orchestra – $175, Dress Circle – $195 professor Henry Higgins. He’s determined to
current projections Broadway Sacramento will present transform her into his idea of a proper lady,
regarding group Come From Away the week of June 29- but in the end who is really transformed?
size and could July 4 in the newly renovated SAFE Credit You’ll be singing along with the classic score
require adjustment. Union Performing Arts Center (formerly the featuring “I Could Have Danced All Night,”
You’re invited Community Center Theatre). Our group “The Rain in Spain” and “Wouldn’t It Be
to confirm your reservation will be transferred, but we have Loverly.” November 3, 2021 – $205
reservations now, not yet been assigned a date. When details Dating to the ancient Greeks, the
however billing are confirmed all those who were on the international symbol for theatre is comedy
will not occur until 2020 trip will be notified and offered a seat. and tragedy as represented by a smiling
closer to operation Any extras will be made available to the and frowning masks. Hopefully this exciting
when everything is set in stone. Travel Club. schedule will give you a reason to put on
San Francisco’s Curran Theatre is host Broadway SF is pleased to announce your happy mask!
to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, their 2021 season. All are Wednesday
the eighth story in the popular Harry Potter matinee performances at the Golden Gate “Your Tour Guy,”
series and the first to be presented on Theatre, and include a snack box lunch en
stage. The show opened in 2016 in London route to the city and time for dinner on your
and on Broadway in 2018. It was the most own following the performance at Pier 39.
awarded show of that season having won 25 Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Clayton Whitehead, CTP
trophies including 6 Tonys. The story unfolds Musical (plus 9 others!) The Band’s Visit Vice President
in two parts, opening with Harry who is now is a delightfully offbeat story, set in a town
The photo on page 1 records a historic
an employee of the Ministry of Magic, a that’s way off the beaten path, in which a
moment… as well as a funny one. Your
husband and the father of three school age band of musicians arrive unexpectedly from
patronage makes it possible for us to
children. There are some amazing surprises out of the blue. Under the spell of the desert
support PBS KVIE as the sponsor of “Rob
in this show (but JK Rowling has secured sky and with beautiful music perfuming
on the Road” and a program underwriter
a promise from us not to reveal anything the air, the encounter enlivens the town
now as we have for the past almost 30
more until you see the show for yourself). in unexpected and tantalizing ways. The
years. With all that’s going on Mark and
This Sunday trip includes a snack box lunch Band’s Visit rejoices in the way music can
Clayton felt a new spot would be in order.
served on the way to the city prior to Part 1 bring together the most unlikely strangers
Since travel is currently on hiatus, they
with a 1pm curtain. Time is allowed for dinner who only a few hours later part as friends.
decided to talk about masks. Clearly
at the Daily Grill (included) before the start April 28 – $190
they had different opinions on how to
of Part 2 at 6:30pm. Return to Sacramento Mean Girls is a ferociously funny musical
properly cover the face as demonstrated
immediately following. Everyone is invited written in part by Tina Fey (“30 Rock,”
by the cloth mask Mark is holding up and
to wear some (or all!) of your Harry Potter “SNL”) telling the story of Cady Heron. She
the scuba gear Clayton is wearing! This
apparel and accessories. And don’t forget grew up on an African savanna, but nothing
is the first (and could be the only) spot
to bring your wands and owls! April 18 – prepared her for the wild and vicious ways
recorded by KVIE during the pandemic.
$415 of her strange new home in suburban Illinois.
Thanks to station friends Barry and Ken
San Francisco Opera will present The How will this naïve newbie rise to the top of
for making it happen! (Another historic
Barber of Seville on May 16. Count Almaviva the popularity pecking order? By taking on
moment was aired recently with Clayton
must rely on the talents of the quick-witted The Plastics, a trio of lionized frenemies
hosting “America’s Test Kitchen 20th
Figaro if he is to win the beautiful Rosina from led by the charming but ruthless Regina
George. When Cady devises a plan to end Anniversary Special,” the station’s first-
her lecherous guardian. Rossini’s timeless
Regina’s reign she learns the hard way that ever virtual membership drive! Clayton
lyric comedy returns in Emilio Sagi’s
you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting was filmed in the Sports Leisure break
buoyant and irresistible Spanish-themed
stung! July 28 – $215 room. Don’t tell it wasn’t a real kitchen!)
production. Your choice of seating is in the
side sections of the Orchestra or the Dress The most recent Broadway revival of
Circle. Be advised the latter requires the use Lerner & Lowe’s beloved My Fair Lady has
Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020 3
The Human Side Learn, Laugh, Reflect copyy
Words of Wisdom: Some Important Reminders… Paraprosdokians
1. Never slap a man who’s chewing • Aliens probably ride past earth and lock The first time I heard about
tobacco. their doors… paraprosdokians, I liked them.
2. Never kick a cow chip on a hot day. • If you see me talking to myself, I’m Paraprosdokians are figures of speech in
3. There are two theories to arguing with a having a staff meeting… which the latter part of a sentence or phrase
woman. Neither works. • Do you ever get up in the morning and is surprising or unexpected and is frequently
4. Never miss a good chance to shut up. look at yourself in the mirror and think, humorous. (Winston Churchill loved them.)
5. Always drink upstream from the herd. that can’t be accurate…. 1. Where there’s a will, I want to be in it.
6. If you find yourself in a hole, stop • I don’t usually go the extra mile, but when 2. The last thing I want to do is hurt you…
digging. I do it’s because I missed my exit… but it’s still on my list.
7. The quickest way to double your money • I told my wife I wanted to be cremated. 3. Since light travels faster than sound,
is to fold it and put it back into your pocket. Should I be concerned she called and some people appear bright until you hear
8. There are three kinds of men: The ones made an appointment for Tuesday? them speak.
that learn by reading. The few who learn 4. If I agreed with you, we’d both be
by observation. The rest of them have to HHHH MEMORIES HHHH wrong.
pee on the electric fence and find out for I can usually remember Monday through 5. We never really grow up… we only
themselves. Thursday. If you can remember Friday, learn how to act in public.
9. Good judgment comes from experience, Saturday and Sunday, let’s put our two 6. War does not determine who is right,
and a lot of that comes from bad judgment. heads together. only who is left.
10. If you’re riding ahead of the herd, take a 7. Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a
look back every now and then to make sure HHHH MINT CONDITION HHHH fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
it’s still there. Male, 1932 model, high mileage, good 8. To steal ideas from one person is
11. Lettin’ the cat outta the bag is a whole condition, some hair, many new parts plagiarism. To steal from many is research.
lot easier’n than puttin’ it back in. including hip, knee, cornea and valves. Isn’t 9. I didn’t say it was your fault, I said I was
12. After eating an entire bull, a mountain in running condition, but walks well. blaming you.
lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept 10. In filling out an application, where it
it up until a hunter came along and shot him HHHH AND FINALLY HHHH says, “In case of emergency, notify…” I
The moral : When you’re full of bull, keep A lady in The Villages, in Florida, was answered, “a doctor.”
your mouth shut. sitting on a bench, near another bench 11. You do not need a parachute to skydive.
where a gentleman was sitting. You only need a parachute to skydive twice.
I told my suitcases that there may be She asked him if he was new to the 12. I used to be indecisive, but now I’m not
no vacation this year. Now I’m dealing community and he said “no, I have owned a so sure.
with emotional baggage. condo here for 20 years”. 13. To be sure of hitting the target, shoot
HHHH She said, “I have been here for 15 years first and call whatever you hit the target.
They are working on pants for old guys. and I have never seen you around!” 14. Going to church doesn’t make you
They’ll combine the comfort of Dockers, He said, “I have been in prison for the last a Christian, any more than standing in a
with the protection of Depends. They will 17 years!” garage makes you a car.
be known as Dry Dockers. She was stunned, and finally asked him 15. You’re never too old to learn something
HHHH what he had done. He said that he had stupid.
I’ve got salad for dinner. Actually murdered his first wife! 16. I’m supposed to respect my elders, but
fruit salad. Well, mostly grapes. Ok, all She was stunned again... and after a long it’s getting harder and harder for me to find
grapes. Fermented grapes. Wine. Ok, pause she said... “So, you’re SINGLE one now.
I’ve got wine for dinner.
Friends We Have Lost…
John Caicchiolo Don Christensen
Proud members of the
Dick Christianson Hal Mattson
Visit us on the web at: Godspeed
www.sportsleisure.com
4 Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020
2020 Daycations
Here’s a friendly reminder of our day trip OPT-OUT at time of reservation and receive With local guide Craig Smith join the year-
safety and wellness policies at present: No $30 credit. Just let us know at the time you long commemoration as we tour, stop and
tours will be sold above 25 to 30 people. make your reservation. $190 learn how this vast area of sand dunes
Those traveling solo will be assigned a seat became the now verdant and horticultural
pair to themselves on the coach. Couples or Wide Open Walls & A Royal diverse attraction it is today. Larger than
those traveling with a friend will be seated Sunday, October 11 New York’s Central Park, its 1,017 acres
together. Masks must be worn at all times WOW has elevated Sacramento into the include unique gardens, recreational areas,
when the group is gathered, even when major leagues as a center for mural creation museums and renowned science venues.
outside, except while eating. Infrared and appreciation. There are over 80 large- Lunch is included at the park’s historic
temperatures will be taken at the start of scale public art projects throughout our Beach Chalet Restaurant served al fresco
the day. Hand sanitation is required every city. Today we’ll learn about the artists and style on their outdoor patio. $165
time you board the coach and supplies will their influences, and experience for yourself
be provided. In this ever-changing climate how WOW is transforming Sacramento Napa in November
these protocols could require adjustment. one wall at a time. This is a four-hour tour Thursday, November 12
Thank you for your and understanding. which includes both riding and walking led Known as a wine capital throughout
by WOW’s mastermind, David Sobon. After the world, November is a perfect time to
Pass the Corn Nuts the tour the Delta King in Old Sacramento experience a day in Napa. In the full glory of
Tuesday, August 25 is your host for an included Sunday Brunch Fall, grapes have ripened and vineyards are
Start the morning with a treat from a complete with a mimosa! $150 ready for harvest. Enjoy a relaxing day as
local donut shop, but we’re not there for we drive through this scenic area of country
the donuts. We’re not going to tell you A Day at Apple Hill roads and small communities with stops
what you’re getting, but we promise you’ll Tuesday, October 13 along the way in Napa and Yountville to
like it! Our next stop will be at Ikeda’s Join us for a fun day exploring the food and do some shopping, sipping, browsing and
Country Store in Auburn. You’ll have time crafts booths at High Hill Ranch and one have lunch on your own. $110
for shopping their fresh produce, sweets additional Apple Hill location. You’ll enjoy a
and nuts, but you won’t need to buy a slice delicious BBQ picnic-style lunch including Christmas Shopping in
of their famous home baked pie – we’re a piece of their scrumptious apple pie. You San Francisco
including it for you to take home. The last might even wish to purchase a fritter, pie or Tuesday, December 8
journey will take you to Sloughhouse and a bag of fresh apples to bring home! There Join our annual trip to downtown San
Davis Ranch where their legendary fresh are so many varieties available at Apple Hill Francisco to browse, shop or simply enjoy
corn will still be available! Now that you’ve that it will make your heads bob. $130 the festive window displays and decorations
got all the fresh produce you need, it’s time at your own pace and interest. Lunch is at
to head back so you can start cooking... and Fall in the Sierra your leisure in Union Square with an optional
top it off with that delicious pie! $110 Wednesday, October 14 shuttle to Pier 39 for the afternoon before
Drink in the beautiful fall scenery as you returning to Sacramento. $110
Rockin’ the River drive along picturesque Highway 88 through
Saturday, September 12 Hope Valley, looking for the shimmering Christmas Lights in
Raise your hand if you can’t remember aspens. Lunch is included at JT’s Basque San Francisco
the last time you went down the Old River Restaurant, a Gardnerville landmark, then Wednesday, December 16
Road. Thought so. We’ll start the day with return home along Highway 50 and the Our always popular trip to San Francisco
an early included lunch at a local bar American River, passing through the Tahoe welcomes the Christmas season with
and grill on the Sacramento River, dining Basin, in hopes of sneaking a peak at more a narrated tour of the city dressed and
outdoors and socially distanced. All aboard fall color along the way. $150 decorated in celebration of the holidays.
the Sacramento River Train Old Vine With visits and views of colorful Civic Center,
Express for a ride along the river. This farm Happy Birthday to Golden Union Square, Embarcadero and Nob Hill,
to glass event offers tastings of selected Gate Park the lights of the stunning skyline, bridges
wines (included) and a DJ playing music. Wednesday, October 21 and city will put you in the spirit of this festive
Due to current safety requirements all One of the world’s largest and most time of year. A mid-afternoon arrival at Pier
seating will be in open air cars. If you don’t beautiful, Golden Gate Park in San 39 provides a chance to dine on your own
care to partake in the wine tasting, you can Francisco just celebrated its 150th birthday. before the evening tour. $125
Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020 5
The Barber Pole, or Once Over Lightly
A variety of information of importance In some cases we have reduced deposits. card or mail a check the day you make
For the new 2021 Theatre Day Trips offered reservations. For some later trips, you will
to Sports Leisure Travelers…
on these pages, we are only asking you to receive an invoice by mail.
How and When We Decide If/ make a reservation. No invoice will arrive
When a Trip is a “Go” until we know the curtain will go up. If You Have Decided Not to Go…
This question has been asked more If you look at a tour you have scheduled
than a few times recently. We are happy New Day Trips and think to yourself, “I would never be
to share a bit of our current procedures for comfortable making that trip right now,” we
Our staff has gotten creative and their new
determining if a trip moves into the final ideas for day outings are on these pages. would truly appreciate it if you cancel your
planning/departure stages. While no trip has The number of passengers will be more reservation. We base our actions on the
departed since mid-March, we have reason limited, which results in an increased cost number of people still registered. If you are
to believe that will change in the coming (the cost of the bus and the staff are shared“dead weight,” just waiting to hear from us
weeks. by fewer passengers, resulting in a higher to cancel, you create the illusion of more
Right now, the pattern on longer trips is cost) that can’t be avoided. It will give youwilling travelers than there really are. Does
to wait until the 3 month to departure mark, more room, an increased amount of space that make sense?
or when the first tour deposit becomes non- on board and more space for any treasures Bottom Line… this is going to be a bit
refundable to us. We first check with those you pick up along the way. different for a while. If you have health
registered for the trip. Do you still want to concerns, or are super picky about details,
If the listed trips sell out, we may be able
go? If the answer is no, refunds are sent to add departures. You can read about our you should probably sit it out for a while
and the trip is cancelled. If there are enough protocols on the Daycations page, but longer.
travelers who still want to go, we move to the it’s a new day for travel and expect some Concerns, questions?... Bound to come
next step. differences. You will also be asked to sign up. That’s why we are here. Please keep in
Can the destination accept us? Are at a release for each of the new trips. Sports mind our reduced hours (9-3, M,T,TH,F) if
least 80% of the attractions/restaurants/ Leisure Vacations and those we work you need to contact us by phone.
amenities still available to us? If the answer with on tour are all working very hard to
is no, the tour is cancelled. If it’s yes, we keep you safe. But the virus
move forward. Twice in recent months, we is in our environment, and SAMPLE SEATING CHART
have come within a few days of having a safety cannot be guaranteed.
trip leave. But conditions changed, or didn’t You will be asked to sign a
improve and we decided not to put our “hold harmless” document
travelers at risk, or critical components for in advance of your travels.
the trip were not available. You are simply saying you
Through all of this, our travelers have been understand the risks, and as
amazing. We have made an extra effort to a responsible adult, you are
get refunds to you as quickly as possible accepting and dealing with
if your trip is cancelled. We are all working them.
together, in the hopes of returning to our The new day trips are
favorite destinations as soon as possible. “creative.” With restaurants
down in California right
Why Continue to Offer Tours if now, we have tried to create
We Don’t Know if We Can Travel? trips that don’t need a meal,
Certainly, once a vaccine for the virus or where it can be served
is widely available, travel will hopefully al fresco. (Outdoor dining
ramp up quickly. Traditionally, our tours anyone?) With our November
are planned as much as 12-18 months in and December trips, we
advance. Some reservations are difficult assume some restaurant
to secure, and often the first person/tour services will be available. For
operator in the door gets a little better price trips scheduled to depart in
than the second person. So it’s important we the next 30 days, please be
continue to plan to a return to travel. prepared to pay by credit
6 Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020
Special Announcement
Vacation Preview Day
Friday, October 30, 2020
and
Saturday, October 31, 2020
KVIE Studios • 2030 West El Camino Ave.
We have our costumes
Here’s your opportunity to get an advance copy of our ready, what about you?
annual catalog and have a chance to get in the CASH CUBE
and win some $$$ to put towards your travels.
We all hope for an indoor event, where we can update you
on our philanthropic projects, talk a little about the new trips
and see our friends. If that isn’t possible, we will still host you
at KVIE, and distribute catalogs in the parking lot!
Make your reservations NOW.
Here’s a list of session times:
Friday – October 30 Saturday, October 31
8:30am, 11:30am, 2:30pm 11:30am, 2:30pm
Admission Fee (yes, even if it’s outdoors) – $10, which is
ALL donated to local charities.
Featuring presentations on the new destinations and some
of the repeats. Socially distanced seating in the building.
FREE
Who wants to play Zoom Bingo?
You’re invited to join us online for Zoom Bingo! Our first three games have shown that
we have some serious Bingo players among us! Your host Chris is marginal, his “lovely”
assistant Mark (A.K.A. Vanna) has seen better days, but luckily our youngster Tyler is
there to keep things running smoothly. What can you win you ask? Some prizes are truly
priceless, while others might actually be something you would want or could use. It’s
a mixed bag and best to keep your expectations in line with reality. It’s all about good
fun with nice people sharing laughs and camaraderie. Simply call the office or email
res@sportsleisure.com to register. You’ll receive your official Bingo cards by mail and
then you’re all set! You must have a computer or phone connected to wifi to play.
You don’t have anything else to do, so why not go online and “get out of the house” so to
speak? Hope to see you there! The fun starts at 11:00 on these upcoming dates:
Thursday, August 20 / Wednesday, September 2 / Thursday, September 17
Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020 7
The Tour Calendar (Previously Announced)
Santa Cruzin’ at the Santa Cruz or the nearby Monterey Bay US 50, The Lincoln
Dream Inn National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Highway, America’s
Every room has an ocean view Center, featuring state-of-the-art exhibits Loneliest Road
A and interactive displays highlighting the
3 Days • September 15-17, 2020 Journey across Nevada on the loneliest
Come with us down to the beach for some sanctuary and its incredible underwater and most historic highway in America
sun-filled, fun-filled days in Santa Cruz. environment. A docent-guided tour of Santa 5 Days • September 29 – October 3, 2020
Spend two heavenly nights at the iconic Cruz with one of the city’s native sons and Join Mark for his favorite thing – a trip down
Dream Inn where every room has an ocean time to shop in nearby Capitola round out an old highway. This time, it’s America’s first
view and you’re steps away from the beach! your three days of sun and relaxation in this transcontinental road, The Lincoln Highway.
The Dream Inn has been a part of the popular beachside resort town. Travel across Nevada, mostly on I-80, then
Santa Cruz beach landscape since it This tour includes door-to-door service, drop down to Ely, and pick up ghost towns
opened in the early 70’s. It quickly became deluxe motorcoach transportation, your and small towns along the route as you wind
THE PLACE to stay primarily because it’s accommodations, 2 lunches and 1 dinner, your way home on The Lincoln Highway,
so close to the Santa Cruz Wharf and the the activities mentioned and the services which later become US 50.
popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It’s of a Sports Leisure Tour Director (Donnie H Highlights H
been recently remodeled and walking into Anderson). Meal locations and menus • Authentic Basque-style lunch
its retro-chic lobby immediately reminds you subject to change due to COVID-19 • Visit the ghost town of Cherry Creek
that you are near the beach. considerations. 25 passenger capacity, • Explore McGill Drugs, frozen in time from
Still not convinced? How about waking 4 open at press time. 1250/1450 Gold 50 years ago
up both mornings (promise not to rush you), Passports Points • Ride the Ghost Train of Old Ely, visit a
to the sound of the ocean, with the Beach $1225 p.p/dbl.occ., $1440 single bordello and meet the ladies… optional,
Boardwalk and Santa Cruz Wharf in sight? of course
Included: lunches at Porter’s Restaurant Pure Michigan: Mackinac • Tour Eureka & Austin, tiny historical
at the Poppy Ridge Golf Club in Livermore & The Upper Peninsula outposts on the historic Lincoln Highway
A
and the Crow’s Nest in Santa Cruz, and 8 Days • September 17-24, 2020 • Visit the Nevada State Museum in the old
dinner with a sunset ocean view at our hotel. At this time, this tour is sold out at 21 Carson City Mint
We’ve replaced the canceled Follies Show passengers plus staff. If you have any • Lunch atop Harrah’s Tahoe, 11 included
with visits to either the Seymour Marine interest in joining us, call our office and meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 full breakfast,
Discovery Center, a community-supported inquire about possible cancellations. 5 lunches, 2 dinners
marine science education center of the UC • Door-to-door service
• 1550/1800 Gold Passport Points
• Tour Directors: Mark Hoffmann, Tyler
Geralds
• 24 passenger capacity, 6 open
$1530 p.p./dbl.occ., $1775 single
A
Spectacular Sedona
Four nights at the Hilton Sedona Resort
5 Days • November 1-5, 2020
H Highlights H
• Brunch at the Wrigley Mansion
• Ride the Verde Valley Railroad
• Visit the town of Jerome
• Guided tour of the Copper Museum
• Lunch and entertainment in Flagstaff
• 8 meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 brunch,
2 lunches, 1 dinner
• 2500/2900 Gold Passport Points
• 25 passengers maximum, 5 open
Sweet treats are the perfect end to a great day of touring $2495 p.p/dbl.occ., $2885 single
8 Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020
Beautiful Bodega Bay Bay is a quaint coastal village with plenty of our local car service. (FB,L)
and The Coast shopping, and great clam chowder. We’ll This holiday vacation includes door-to-
A start with a visit to the “rock” to see if we can door service, r/t motorcoach transportation,
Featuring the Sonoma Coastline
3 Days • November 8-10, 2020 spot some harbor seals playing in the bay accommodations, 7 meals (3FB,4L), all
H Highlights H followed with time to browse the shops. This tours and attractions listed, and the services
• Relax in comfort and enjoy the hospitality evening, stroll through booths at Cambria’s of a Sports Leisure Vacations Tour
of Bodega Bay Lodge & Spa, overlooking Christmas Market. Vendors, musicians Director. 1450/1650 Gold Passport Points,
Doran Beach and festive lights make this a great holiday 30 passengers, 9 open.
• Tour the Marine Biology Laboratory event. (FB,L) $1405 p.p./dbl.occ., $1615 single
• Dine at the historic Occidental Union 3. A nice hot breakfast prepares you for
Hotel; and legendary Tides a day of touring along the Central Coast. The California
• 5 meals: 2 full breakfasts, 1 brunch, First up, we will stop in at the little hamlet of Christmas Mystery Tour
2 lunches Harmony. Once home to a dairy creamery, 5 Days • December 3-7, 2020
• Door-to-door service and deluxe this little village is continually re-inventing It is perhaps our most sought after
motorcoach transportation itself with artisan shops. As time and reservation of the year and this year was
• 1200/1400 Gold Passport Points weather allows, we will visit the Elephant no exception. We actually added a second
• 25 passengers maximum, 9 open Seal Rookery in San Simeon. December is departure on Dec. 2nd, and it quickly filled.
There is something special about the the month the females arrive to give birth Currently, both departures are sold out. You
Sonoma Coast: beaches that stretch for to their 70 pound pups! Then, step back in can call and place your name on the wait
miles, remnants of rocks forming striking sea time as you tour the Assembly Room and the list. The package includes 9 meals, one way
stacks, and ah… the sound of the ocean. As Upstairs Suites of Hearst Castle. airfare, train, boat and coach transportation,
you walk along Bodega Head, listen for the Please note: the tour is 60 minutes plus the services of a Sports Leisure Tour
barking of the sea lions; and as you relax in in length, includes 332 steps both up Director (or two). 2200/2450 Gold Passport
your room, the sound of the fog horn. and down, and 3/4 mile walk with much Points
$1200 p.p./dbl.occ., $1390 single standing. (You may OPT OUT of castle $2160 p.p./dbl.occ., $2450 single
tour at time of registration and receive $30
An Apple Farm Christmas credit). (FB,L) All Aboard the
Featuring Hearst Castle and Cambria 4. On our return to Sacramento, we make Christmas Train
Christmas Market a brief stop in Salinas at the Steinbeck A close-to-home holiday expedition to
4 Days • Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, 2020 Center. This quintessential American The Silver State!
A holiday favorite for Sports Leisure author truly is the story of local boy “done 3 Days • December 23-25, 2020
travelers for many years, the Apple Farm is good.” While Steinbeck’s writings were very 1. Start your holiday like all good vacations
classic Christmas. Add the grandeur of the controversial at the time they were written, should – by sleeping in! The California
Hearst Castle and their decorations and you today Salinas is proud of their Nobel Prize Zephyr leaves the Amtrak Station at half
will be inspired to come home and “deck author. Arrive Sacramento, early evening to past 11, arriving in Reno at 4 p.m. Whether
your halls.” This early December holiday trip find the transfer to your home provided by there’s snow or not the trip through the Sierra
includes three nights at the favored Apple
Farm Inn; an “upstairs tour” of the Hearst
Castle including Hearst’s private office and
living quarters; and the Cambria Christmas
Market to get you into the holiday spirit.
1. Begin with a drive down through the
western side of the Central Valley, arriving at
Harris Ranch Inn for lunch. Their collection
of Christmas decorations is sure to set the
spirit soaring with delight. In the company
store you will find almonds, apricots and
other fine goodies fresh from the neighboring
orchards. Continue to the coast, arriving in
San Luis Obispo late afternoon. Apple Farm
Inn – 3 nights (L)
2. Relax a bit with a later morning start
before heading out on our excursions. Morro Santa and his elf look rather familiar, wouldn’t you say?
Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020 9
Nevada, complimented by a gourmet boxed The Queen Mary, Copley Symphony Hall in San Diego for the
lunch, is always stunning. Tonight enjoy the New Year’s Eve and afternoon performance of Salute to Vienna…
A
gaming action, dining options and other A Salute to Vienna a dazzling performance evoking the golden
exciting opportunities offered in The Row, the Ring in the New Year aboard the historic age of Viennese music, and is a glorious
new interconnected entertainment venue in Queen Mary re-creation of the beloved Neujahrskonzert,
downtown Reno bringing the Silver Legacy, 4 Days • December 30 – January 2, 2021 the concert that has welcomed the New
Eldorado and Circus Circus together under Are you ready to “ring out” 2020 and start Year for more than 80 years in Vienna and all
one roof. Silver Legacy – 2 nights (L) a new year? Sports Leisure Vacations has over the world. Embassy Suites Waterfront
2. Visit nearby Virginia City where a holiday just the trip for you! A swanky New Year’s Hotel – San Diego (L)
scavenger hunt awaits prompting you to Eve party aboard the historic Queen Mary 4. A mid-day flight returns you home after
visit beautifully decorated shops, bars and in Long Beach. For several years now, a festive beginning to 2021. With Strauss
historic sites as your interest warrants. Of travelers have been asking for a New Year’s waltzes still playing in your ears, and visions
course, in Virginia City bars and historic sites Eve party (we’ve had some great ones over of bygone elegance, you can welcome a
are often one in the same – not completely the years especially at Harris Ranch Inn, new year filled with memories of beauty, joy
a bad thing and we think Mark Twain would and aboard the USS Midway) and May has and entertainment. (FB)
agree! Back in Reno enjoy a traditional gift discovered a new experience for you. This package includes door-to-door
exchange and dinner followed by optional 1. The festivities begin with a mid-morning service, roundtrip air to Long Beach/
church services. Let’s pray “midnight mass” flight to Long Beach. After lunch, settle into from San Diego, deluxe motorcoach
begins well before midnight! (FB,D) the Queen Mary Hotel. A docent-guided transportation, all attractions listed above,
3. Our fun and funky gift exchange historical tour helps you get oriented to the and 5 meals (1FB,3L,1D) along with the
assures lots of laughs whether you end up docked ship; and provides some context for services of your Sports Leisure Vacations
with a keeper or white elephant! A midday your stay. Queen Mary Hotel – 2 nights (L) Tour Director.
Christmas feast and the scenic drive home 2. It is New Year’s Eve Day, so we have Pricing and final itinerary in October
via Lake Tahoe’s south shore is the perfect planned a leisurely morning and afternoon. (when they determine if the entertain-
way to end our holiday expedition. (FB,L) Choose from a visit to the Long Beach ment and performances can be held)
Tour includes home pick-up and return, Aquarium, a nearby shopping center, or to
Amtrak ticket (one way), deluxe motorcoach just relax on the ship. Tonight, a fabulous Key West, Miami and
E
service, accommodations, activities as dinner and music await, as everyone gets The Everglades
indicated, 5 meals (2FB,2L,1D) and the dressed up to ring out the old, and ring in A SLV favorite; a winter tradition
services of a Sports Leisure Vacations the new. Get out your glitz and glitter... (L, D) 6 Days • January 23-28, 2021
Tour Director. 1000/1100 Gold Passport 3. A late morning start is planned after an This trip quickly sold out. We Invite you to
Points evening of festivities, but you have another place your name on the wait list. The tour
$960 p.p./dbl.occ., $1060 single full day ahead. Depart Long Beach for San doesn’t depart until January, so there will be
Diego. After a quick lunch, arrive at the some movement no doubt.
$3725 p.p./dbl.occ., $4250 single
A
Eagles and Owls
Unique birds of prey viewing and an
agricultural education experience
3 Days • January 29-31, 2021
H Highlights H
• Private Ranch and Owl tours
• Sunday brunch at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
• 3 meals: 1 brunch, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
• Door-to-door service
• 1050/1150 Gold Passport Points
1. Experience the beauty of the Sierra
Nevada Mountains in winter as you travel
along Highway 50 to the south shore of
beautiful Lake Tahoe. Pause for lunch before
traveling east to Carson Valley and the town
of Minden in Nevada. The annual Eagles
The holidays are best spent with friends! and Agriculture gathering focuses on the
10 Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020influx of bald eagles and other birds of prey 3. Today we travel south to Old Faithful. Sit in town before your afternoon flight back to
that come to the scenic Carson Valley each back and enjoy the spectacular scenery in Sacramento. A memorable trip you will not
year during winter calving season. This comfort, as you are move easily across the soon forget! (B)
remarkable interaction between nature and snow in custom snow coaches chauffeured This tour is limited to 20 people
agriculture attracts photographers, birders by an experienced guide. Along the way and includes roundtrip airfare, deluxe
and nature-lovers of all kinds who come learn about the park’s history, walk thermal transportation and airport transfers,
to closely observe raptors and a variety of basins viewing geysers and hot springs. accommodations, all attractions and meals
other birds. Tonight, dinner is hosted with Your accommodations for the evening are listed in the itinerary and the services of
guest presenters. Carson Valley Inn – 2 just steps away from the famous geyser. Old Sports Leisure Vacations Tour Director
nights (D) Faithful Snow Lodge – 2 nights (B,L) Scott Angeletti. 4000/4500 Gold Passport
2. Today is special treat! Visit local ranches 4. Today enjoy a free day to walk the Points
and observe their operations up close with Old Faithful geyser basin and spend time $3950 p.p./dbl.occ., $4495 single
the men and women who run them. While in the visitor’s center. For (extra cost) rent
learning about Carson Valley ranching and snowshoes or cross-country skis and head Winter at the
A
conservation, you have the opportunity to off on your own adventure or join a guided Majestic Ahwahnee
observe birds of prey from vantage points expedition. (B) Featuring an overnight stay in Yosemite
not available to the general public. This is 5. Depart the park for West Yellowstone. National Park
a once a year opportunity for eagle viewing Lunch is hosted before a visit to The Grizzly 2 Days • February 21-22, 2021
and photography. The afternoon Owl Prowl & Wolf Discovery Center. The Center is home This trip is a Sports Leisure Vacations
Tour goes to historic area barns to view owls for grizzly bears from as far away as Alaska. favorite! And the focus is all about the
in their natural habitats. (L) Each bear and its story is unique, but they Ahwahnee Hotel… recently re-named The
3. Time to head back over the mountains all have something in common; they came Majestic Yosemite Hotel. For this writer, and
stopping again at Lake Tahoe’s south shore to reside here after becoming nuisance many others, it will always be the Ahwahnee.
where you will enjoy the popular Sunday bears or orphaned cubs of a nuisance bear. Enjoy brunch in the Grand Dining Room,
Brunch at the Forest Buffet, high atop Holiday Inn West Yellowstone (B,L) have a docent-guided historic tour of the
Harrah’s Casino/Resort, before returning to 6. Travel south through Idaho crossing public areas, and spend one night in what
Sacramento. (BR) the Grand Teton Mountains to the town of is considered the Grand Dame of National
$1015 p.p./dbl.occ., $1125 single Jackson. Lunch is hosted before taking a Park hotels.
$ave $20 until August 31 horse-drawn sleigh ride among an elk herd 1. Travel through the Central Valley to
numbering in the thousands at the National Yosemite National Park and to the historic
Winter in Yellowstone Elk Refuge. Wort Hotel (B,L) Ahwahnee Hotel, built in 1926. Sunday
A
National Park 7. Enjoy a free morning to visit the shops Brunch is presented in the Ahwahnee Dining
Featuring stays at the Old Faithful Snow
Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel
in Yellowstone National Park
7 Days • February 19-25, 2021
Join our select group for a trip to the winter
wonderland that is Yellowstone National
Park. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget…
1. Fly to Bozeman Montana. Lunch is
hosted before traveling to Gardiner situated
at the North entrance of Yellowstone National
Park. Ridgeline Hotel (L)
2. Enter the incredible landscape of
Yellowstone National Park. Winter is a
special time to visit Yellowstone. Deep snow
in the high country pushes the wildlife down
to lower elevations. Today we explore the
famed Lamar Valley on a wildlife tour. Elk,
bison, coyotes and fox are some of the
animals we are looking for but our big prize
here is to spot wolf packs. Mammoth Hot
Springs Hotel (B,L) Yellowstone National Park in the winter will take your breath away
Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020 11Room, with its 34 foot high ceilings and floor brings you to the Sports Leisure Vacations of warning – watch out those burros don’t
to ceiling windows. A guided tour of the office. Depart for the south shore of Lake steal your ice cream! (Opt out at time of
public areas deepens your appreciation for Tahoe for the popular Forest Buffet at booking, and receive $25 credit.) (2L)
the architecture and interior design of this Harrah’s. Continue your travels down Hwy. 5. Depart Laughlin this morning, stopping
grand structure. Pause for a cup of tea in 395, crisscrossing California and Nevada in Yermo for lunch at the fabulous and fun
the Grand Lounge while awaiting check-in as you make your way to Tonopah. Indulge Peggy Sue’s, then continue on through
at 5pm. The evening is yours to enjoy the yourself at the Mizpah Hotel, a landmark of Mojave and Bakersfield to Tachi Palace
historic surroundings. Ahwahnee Hotel luxury since 1907, when Tonopah was the for one more opportunity at the slots. This
(BR) last of the Wild West boom towns, bustling beautiful hotel is one of the finest casino
2. Exploring the valley during the winter is with those seeking fortunes in the silver hotels in California. Tachi Palace (L)
very different than during other times of the mines. Due to a limited number of two- 6. Enjoy a relaxing morning before
year; perhaps you will wake up to a fresh bedded rooms at the historic Mizpah Hotel, traveling north, arriving in Sacramento early
dusting of snow. Learn more about winter in additional double rooms will be provided at afternoon. Your transportation waits at the
Yosemite and enjoy the spectacular views the nearby Best Western High Desert Inn. office to take you home. (L)
as you explore from one end of the valley (BR) $1705 p.p./dbl.occ., $1945 single
to the other from the comfort of a heated 2. A quick stop in Las Vegas is just $ave $40 until August 31
coach with a local guide this morning. There enough to whet your appetite; next, drop
is time for lunch on your own in the valley; by Sam’s Town for a dinner. Arrive Laughlin Alaska’s Aurora Borealis
then enjoy a brief stop at the Hilmar Cheese early evening with three nights to enjoy the Featuring small group travel with unique
Company before returning home. river view from your hotel. Golden Nugget winter attractions
This package includes motorcoach – 3 nights (D) A E
7 Days • March 6-12, 2021
transportation, accommodations, 1 brunch, 3-4. With two full days in Laughlin, you H Highlights H
all tours and attractions as listed above and have several options. Travel the Colorado • Small group; 20 max., 3 available
the services of a Sports Leisure Vacations River by jet boat to Lake Havasu, home • View the Aurora Borealis in the dark skies
Tour Director. 30 passengers, 12 seats of the famous London Bridge; and view outside of Fairbanks
available. 800/900 Gold Passport Points. breathtaking Topock Gorge, only accessible • Tour of the BP Ice Art Championship
$770 p.p./dbl.occ., $870 single by river, along the way. Enjoy a hosted lunch sculptures
$ave $20 until August 31 before returning to Laughlin via our coach. • Travel on the Alaska Railroad from
(If you opt out of the jet boat ride and lunch Talkeetna to Healy
Tonopah and Laughlin with at Lake Havasu, you may deduct $100 from • Dogsled at Dallas Seavey kennel, winner
Just a Glimmer of Vegas the price of the tour. This must be done at of the 2012, 2014, 2015 & 2016 Iditarod
An “all coach” trip through the desert, time of making your reservation.) Or maybe • Star Lady Aurora presentation
with 3 nights on the Colorado River you’d rather visit Oatman, a Route 66 • Door-to-door airport transportation
6 Days • February 28 – March 5, 2021 landmark and home to the famous burros. • R/T air to Anchorage and from Fairbanks
H Highlights H Have lunch at the Oatman Hotel; tho’ a word • 8 Meals: 1 breakfast, 4 lunches,
• 3 nights next to the Colorado River with
river view accommodations
• Optional side trips to Oatman, AZ and
Lake Havasu
• 1 night Tonopah, home of the Mizpah
Hotel; and 1 night at Tachi Palace
• Door-to-door service
• 6 meals: 1 brunch, 4 lunches, 1 dinner
• 25 passengers, 13 available
• 1750/1950 Gold Passport Points
For many years we have stayed in Las
Vegas but now travelers’ comments ask for
more time in Laughlin, and less in Vegas…
We will still stop on “The Strip” for several
hours to satisfy your curiosity, and then
continue to your hotel on the Colorado River
for 3 nights.
1. Our convenient door-to-door service The Northern Lights near Fairbanks are nothing short of amazing
12 Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 20203 dinners vast arid landscapes punctuated by oases • Spend the morning in Red Cloud, home
• 4350/4650 Gold Passport Points prolific with all types of flora and fauna. Our to author Willa Cather
Please note: You must be prepared for late afternoon drive to Rancho Mirage, home • Early morning “chicken dance”
cold weather (0 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit to a “hot water” resort, provides insight into experience
is typical) throughout this tour. See the the agriculture of the Coachella Valley. Agua • 10 meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches,
complete day-by-day itinerary online, or Caliente Casino Resort Spa – 3 nights 2 dinners
refer to the May newsletter. (FB,L) • Door-to-door service
$4345 p.p./dbl.occ., $4610 single 3. Climb into one of the famous “red jeeps” • R/T air to Kearney/from North Platte
$ave $75 until August 31 for a trek into slot canyons and an open air • 2350/2600 Gold Passport Points
ride through the desert landscape. With a $2335 p.p./dbl.occ., $2580 single
Desert Beauty: local guide explaining the history, culture $ave $50 until August 31
Anza-Borrego and and legends of the Cahuilla people, the
Joshua Tree National Park beauty of the desert comes alive with your The Colorful Carolina Coast
Springtime wildflowers, majestic driver’s interpretation. This afternoon ascend Meander the beautiful Southern Atlantic
A two-and-one-half miles through multiple life
landscapes, and splendid beauty coastline from Norfolk to Jacksonville
zones aboard the world’s largest rotating A
5 Days • March 15-19, 2021 10 Days • March 23 – April 1, 2021
H Highlights H tramcar to witness the diversity of the desert H Highlights H
• Anza-Borrego State Park, Joshua Tree and amazing views of the Coachella Valley. • Visit North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Kitty
National Park and the gardens of the 4. Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Hawk, New Bern and the USS North
Living Desert provide spectacular Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Carolina
examples of desert beauty Joshua Tree National Park. Forests of trees • See South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach,
• Experience the desert first hand with a and jumbles of massive rocks make this Brookgreen Gardens, Charleston and
jeep ride, tram ride and guided tour of an enchanting place – a land sculpted by Ft. Sumter
the region strong winds and torrents of rain. The surreal • Enjoy Georgia’s first city, Savannah, and
• Stay 3 nights at the Agua Caliente Resort geologic features add to the mystique of historic Jekyll Island
• Door-to-door airport service this vast wilderness. This evening you have • 2-night stays oceanfront on Myrtle Beach
• Roundtrip airfare to San Diego/from the option to stroll through Village Fest, a and in Charleston and Savannah’s
Ontario menagerie of crafts, art and music on Palm Historic Districts
• 5 meals: 1 full breakfast, 3 lunches, Canyon Road, in downtown Palm Springs. • Overnights in Norfolk, the Outer Banks
1 dinner (L,D) and New Bern
• 2500/2900 Gold Passport Points 5. Desert beauty comes in many forms. • 17 meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches,
• 25 passengers max., 9 open This morning, go behind-the-scenes for a 5 dinners
The desert is a place of silence, light and private tour at The Living Desert Zoo and • Door-to-door airport service
space with beauty in its arid landscape, and Gardens, providing insight to the survival • Round trip air to Norfolk/from Jacksonville
wildflowers tucked into its crevices. Spend of life in many deserts around the world. • 4300/4850 Gold Passport Points
enough time here and the desert will weave An afternoon flight from Ontario returns you $4260 p.p./dbl.occ., $4820 single
a spell upon you. Experience the beauty home with a greater appreciation of the $ave $75 until August 31
and grandeur for yourself in this springtime desert and all her beauty.
expedition. $2490 p.p./dbl.occ., $2880 single
1. A late-morning flight delivers you to San $ave $50 until August 31
Diego for lunch in the beautiful Old Town.
After lunch, enjoy the view of the Pacific Nebraska: Cranes,
Ocean from Point Cabrillo, a monumental Chickens and Kool-Aid
site commemorating the first European Featuring Willa Cather’s praire lands
E
explorer. Embassy Suites Waterfront 5 Days • March 22-26, 2021
Hotel (L) • Evening and morning viewing of cranes
2. Travel from the seashore into the at Rowe Sanctuary
mountains to Julian, a small mining town • Visit the Crane Trust Foundation
known for apple pies. A quick lunch and you headquarters
are off to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, • Drive through the countryside with local
California’s largest. Famous for its springtime crane “guy”
display of wildflowers, this desert park has • Walk through the Kool-Aid exhibit at the
so much to offer: dramatic mountains and Hastings Museum Serving up Toot’s famous prune cake
Sports Leisure Vacations / August – September 2020 13You can also read
