White Nights
Capitals of the Baltics
June 19 – 30, 2004
SUMMER SOLSTICE IN THE BALTICS
“White Nights” refers to the period at the end of June
when the Baltics enjoy near around-the-clock daylight. It also applies
to a specific cultural and arts festival that takes place each year
in St. Petersburg, Russia, and which is the culmination point of this
exciting tour!
The Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia
and Estonia sit in a crescent on the east end of the Baltic Sea in Northern
Europe. Bullied since the early 13th Century by Germans, Swedes, Poles,
and Russians, they share a past (particularly their Soviet past) that
is a much-gnawed bitter root. The three countries have been in revival
since their release from the 1940 – 1991 Soviet occupation, but
still remain far from the tourist mainstream (which itself is a good
reason to explore them).
Despite their shared past and geographic grouping,
the Baltic states each have a very different character. They are sparsely
populated countries featuring bucolic views of nature, vast stores of
amber, and well-preserved medieval cities. They are dynamic countries
with a young population and whose cities offer great cultural opportunities
and all the modern amenities.
Although they are situated close to Scandinavia
and share a similar landscape to Sweden and Finland, they boast a lifestyle
that reminds visitors more of Spain, France or Italy. Rich in history
and culture, these venerable old capital cities are waiting to be discovered
all over again.
Lithuania is the southernmost
and biggest Baltic country. Its capital, Vilnius, was one of the largest
cities in Europe during the 16th Century and played an important part
in the vast Polish empire that stretched between the Baltic and Black
Seas. It has been called the “Baltic Jerusalem” because
of its many churches and its formerly significant Jewish minority. Remnants
of the ancient Lithuanian, Jewish and Polish cultures can be found in
the old town, particularly in the form of places of worship. Close to
the capital is the famous castle of Trakai.
Latvia is the central
Baltic country. Its capital, Riga, is the largest city of the Baltics
with about 800,000 inhabitants. It was founded in 1158, and still retains
much old world charm despite having been heavily damaged by bombing
raids during World War II. The modern city is famous for its Art Nouveau
architecture, its broad boulevards and its cosmopolitan flair. Latvia
offers a long Baltic Sea coastline with harbour towns, while the countryside
offers picturesque little towns, often with medieval centres.
Estonia is the northernmost
country of the Baltics. It also is the smallest country with the smallest
population. The capital city Tallinn has a medieval Old Town that retains
the aura of the 14th and 15th centuries like no other place in Europe.
South of Tallinn there is the famous old university town of Tartu. Estonia
offers beautiful islands such as Saaremaa and Hiiumaa and lakes such
as Lake Peipsi. Estonia is ideal for outdoor recreation.
The Old Quarters of these three historic
capital cities have all been restored and protected as UNESCO World
Heritage Sites. This is another attractive feature of the tour since
only the most historically significant places warrant such distinction.
The tour culminates with a three-night stay
in St. Petersburg, Russia. Built on a grand scale with
splendid boulevards, magnificent palaces, and some of the world’s
most respected museums, St. Petersburg provides a lavish setting for
the final adventures of our dazzling White Nights in the Baltics!
ITINERARY
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Leave Home
Take an international flight from your home city today bound for Vilnius,
Lithuania, arriving tomorrow. (VNO is the airport code.)
Sunday, June 20, 2004
Arrival in Vilnius, Lithuania
After arriving in Vilnius and proceeding through customs, take a taxi
to our hotel. (Toto Tours will provide one group motorcoach transfer
from the airport to the hotel, timed to accommodate the greatest number
of arriving clients.) The remainder of the day is free to rest up from
jet lag and do some exploring in Vilnius on your own. This evening Toto
Tours hosts a Welcome Dinner at our hotel, with a brief tour orientation
and introductions. Overnight in Vilnius. (Dinner
included)
Monday, June 21, 2004
Vilnius Sightseeing
After a hot buffet breakfast at the hotel, take a morning tour of
Vilnius that introduces you to many of the city’s most important
sights. Vilnius is situated 155 miles inland from the Baltic Sea on
the banks of the Neris River. The center of the city is on the southern
side of the river, and its heart is Cathedral Square, an open square
with the cathedral on its northern side and Gediminas Hill rising behind
it.
The Old Town is the largest in Eastern
Europe, and stretches south from Cathedral Square. A church spire can
be seen from every one of its winding streets, which, coupled with its
countless hidden courtyards, make it intriguing to explore. Other landmarks
include Vilnius University, the President's palace, an observatory and
the old Jewish quarter and ghetto. Restaurants, pubs, nightclubs and
cafés abound. Three Crosses Hill overlooks the Old Town and is
a long-standing landmark. Crosses are said to have stood here since
the 17th century in memory of three monks who were martyred by crucifixion
on this spot.
Our tour features a visit to St. Peter
and Paul Church, plus a visit to the University complex. After lunch,
tour Trakai Castle on the outskirts of town. There will be time for
a nice hike along the shores of Lake Galve. (Breakfast
/ Lunch)
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Rundale Palace / Riga
This morning, board our motorcoach for the journey to Latvia. After
lunch, tour Rundale Palace, an 18th Century architectural highlight
of provincial Latvia. Bartolomeo Rastrelli, the baroque genius from
Italy who created many of St. Petersburg’s finest buildings, built
this stunning palace.
Proceed on to Riga, the country’s capital
and a major metropolis with a big-city atmosphere. It straddles the
Daugava River in the southeastern corner of the Gulf of Riga. On its
eastern bank you’ll find Old Riga, the city’s historic heart
and World Heritage Site. Upon arrival we enjoy free time for independent
sightseeing. Overnight in Riga. (Breakfast
/ Lunch)
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Riga Sightseeing
After breakfast take a half-day sightseeing tour of Riga, with emphasis
on the old quarter which contains Europe’s finest collection of
stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Featured will be a view of Riga Castle
and a tour of St. Peters Church, where we climb the tower for spectacular
views. After lunch, the remainder of the day is at your leisure. (Breakfast
/ Lunch)
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Estonia Countryside / Tallinn
After breakfast, travel along the eastern coast of the Gulf of Riga
into Estonia. During our travels through the Estonian countryside, we
stop for lunch (on your own) in Parnu, the country’s leading seaside
resort (famous for its mud baths).
Continue on to Tallinn, capital of Estonia,
located on a bay of the Gulf of Finland (Helsinki is just 50 miles across
the bay). Its major landmark is Toompea, the hill over which it has
sprawled since the Middle Ages. The aura of the 14th and 15th centuries
survives intact in central Tallinn’s jumble of medieval walls
and turrets, spires and winding cobbled streets. Upon arrival the remainder
of the day is free to explore, sightsee or go shopping. Overnight in
Tallinn. (Breakfast)
Friday, June 25, 2004
Tallinn Sightseeing
On a half-day sightseeing tour tour the Old Town, see the ancient
Toompea Castle (current home of Estonia’s Parliament), the Town
Hall Square, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The afternoon is free for
independent sightseeing or participation in an optional excursion arranged
by Toto Tours. (Breakfast)
Saturday, June 26, 2004
Free Day / Night Train to Russia
The morning and afternoon are completely free for independent adventures
in Tallinn. Our group gathers at the hotel in early evening and transfers
to the train station for an overnight train passage to St. Petersburg,
Russia. There is no sleeper service on the train, so passengers sleep
in reclining seats. This will be a real adventure! (Breakfast)
Sunday, June 27, 2004
Arrival in St. Petersburg, Russia
Upon arrival in St. Petersburg this morning, we load our luggage onto
a waiting motorcoach and enjoy a reviving breakfast at a local restaurant.
Sated, we plunge directly into a sightseeing / orientation tour of the
city featuring views of the Admiralty and the Nevsky Prospekt (the city’s
equivalent of Paris’ Champs Elysées), and what is certain
to be one of the highlights—entrance to the world-famous Hermitage
Museum. Lunch is included and the evening is free. If you aren’t
too tired from the overnight train journey, you might try to obtain
tickets to a “White Nights” cultural event this evening.
Overnight in St. Petersburg. (Breakfast
/ Lunch)
Monday, June 28, 2004
Free Day
Today is completely at leisure for you to enjoy independent sightseeing
in St. Petersburg. We will provide suggestions for day tours. (Breakfast)
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Peter’s Palace / Farewell Dinner
After breakfast at our hotel, enjoy a half-day excursion to Petrodvorets
(formerly known as Peterhof, or the Palace of Peter the Great). Built
in the early 18th century, the stately parks, innumerable fountains,
beautiful cascades, and exuberant decorations here symbolize the grandeur
of Old Russia. This evening Toto Tours hosts a gala Farewell Dinner,
with Vodka, Champagne and Cavier, bringing our “White Nights”
tour to a festive conclusion. (Breakfast
/ Dinner)
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Departure
The tour ends officially after breakfast this morning. Arrange your
return flight home for any convenient time today. Toto Tours provides
one group transfer to the airport this morning. (Breakfast)
NOTE: The detailed itinerary for any destination
is essentially a dry recitation of places we visit and sights we see.
To someone who has never taken a Toto Tour, the itinerary cannot even
begin to describe the incredible fun and added benefit of traveling
with a group of gay men. There are the impromptu adventures organized
on the spot, the shared evenings of mirth and camaraderie in local restaurants,
the serendipitous encounters of street parades or special markets, the
unexpected attendance at a classical concert, the bonding and intimacy
of new friends through common experiences, and the amazing qualities
and talents of a group of the most incredible guys you could ever hope
to meet. The full-time services of both a professional Tour Manager
and an experienced Tour Escort create the ideal conditions for one of
the most effortless and enjoyable vacations of your life!
ACCOMMODATIONS
Vilnius: Holiday
Inn, located in the heart of the business district
of Vilnius, only 10 minutes walk to the Old Town – the historical
heart of Vilnius, where you can find numerous pubs, restaurants, famous
buildings and museums. The hotel features a business center, mini gym,
sauna, lobby bar, 24 hours room service, 24 hours security, and a fine
restaurant featuring French cuisine.
Riga: Best
Eastern Riga Hotel, originally built in 1937
and renovated in 1996. The Riga Hotel is situated in the most beautiful
part of Riga—at the city centre opposite the National Opera House
and the Freedom Monument. A landmark building with luxury accommodations.
Tallin: Grand
Hotel, located in the center of Tallinn, only
a 10 minute walk to the city's famous and beautiful historic center.
The hotel offers a magnificent view over the historic city wall and
the Parliament Building.
St. Petersburg: Hotel
St. Petersburg. The “White Nights”
festival made booking city center hotels extremely difficult, and we
were fortunate to obtain this 3-star property. Located in the heart
of Saint-Petersburg, the hotel is conveniently close to many landmarks
of 18th - 19th century Imperial Russia: The State Hermitage Museum,
St. Isaac's Cathedral, the St.Peter & Paul Fortress, the Summer
Gardens, the Field of Mars, the Summer Palace of Peter the Great and
many other wonderful attractions.
TOUR PREPARATION
Entry Requirements—For U.S. Citizens a valid
passport is the only document required to enter Lithuania, Latvia, and
Estonia for stays less than 90 days. A visa is required for entrance
into Russia, which is quite complicated and requires an invitation letter
from our tour operators in Russia. We will send full details about how
to obtain a Russian visa several months prior to departure.
Immunizations—No immunizations are currently
required for travel to the countries visited on this tour, but it is
wise to have your inoculations up-to-date. Is your tetanus booster current?
Exit Requirements—There is currently no airport
departure tax required of visitors leaving Russia.
WHAT TO BRING
In June, average high temperatures range between 50 and 69 degrees
F in Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn, and St. Petersburg. You won’t need
a suit jacket or tie, as the tour is informal and dinner attire will
be dressy casual. Try to pack light and bring only two small pieces
of luggage. Think “layers” and plan mix and match outfits!
Pack any medications you require in a carry-on bag and leave expensive
jewelry at home!
Suggested Packing List:
____ Passport with Russian Visa.
____ Dressy, casual wear for dinners.
____ Shorts (1 or 2 pairs)
____ T-shirts (2 – 3).
____ Long pants (3 – 4 pairs)
____ Jeans (1 pair) for daytime activities.
____ Long-sleeve shirts (5 – 6).
____ Socks, underwear for 9 days.
____ Light sweater for cool days.
____ Jacket for cool evenings.
____ Umbrella or other rain protection.
____ Comfortable walking shoes (2 pair in case one gets wet).
____ Ziploc bags: large for wet things, small for documents/toiletries.
____ Washcloth (optional). Most European hotels do not provide guests
with washcloths.
____ Daypack or fanny pack.
____ Sunscreen / lip balm / sunglasses.
____ Personal toiletries.
____ Camera, batteries & plenty of film (or digital memory cards).
____ A good book for the long flights.
____ Small supply of $1 bills. This greatly facilitates tipping porters,
waiters, maids, etc.
MONEY MATTERS
We visit four countries with four different currencies during this
tour. The interbank exchange rate for each was as follows on November
6, 2003:
- Lithuania: 1 US Dollar = 3.01924 Lithuanian Litas
- Latvia: 1 US Dollar = 0.55912 Latvian Lats
- Estonia: 1 US Dollar = 13.68485 Estonian Kroon
- Russia: 1 US Dollar = 29.81000 Russian Rouble
Exchange only small amounts of money into local currency upon arrival
in each country. Otherwise, try to use your credit card/ATM as much
as possible. American Express, Visa & MasterCard work in most ATMs
for cash withdrawals. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants,
hotels, shops and tourist attractions.
While tipping isn't compulsory in Lithuania,
Latvia or Estonia, it is common to tip waiters 5% to 10% by rounding
up the bill. Some waiters try to give themselves a tip by telling you
that they don’t have change, so try to pay as close to the exact
amount of your restaurant bill. There's some bargaining at flea markets,
but discounts are likely to be minimal. In Russia, very few places expect
you to tip. Top-end hotels and restaurants add 5% to 15% to your bill,
while porters expect around US$1 a bag. Shops have fixed prices, but
in markets you'll be expected to bargain.
LIABILITIES & DISCLAIMERS
Making a reservation with a deposit shall be deemed to be consent
to these conditions: Toto Tours does not accept responsibility in whole
or in part for any delay, loss, accidents, personal injury, sickness,
medical expenses, or property damage occasioned by fault of any person
from whatever cause. All tour participants are required to sign a standard
liability form.
The tour operators reserve the right to
accept or decline any person as a member of the tour at any time and
to make whatever changes become necessary with or without notice. This
tour is now a guaranteed departure!
Toto Tours is not responsible for
airline cancellation or change penalties incurred by individual tour
participants for airline tickets purchased prior to our notification
that the tour is a guaranteed departure.
To reserve a place on this tour, click on the "Reservations"
link above. Type in the information requested in each field, print the
form, sign and mail it to Toto Tours with your $500 deposit check. The
balance of $2,095 (double) or $2,595 (single) is due 80 days prior to
departure (by March 31, 2004). Tour registration is not complete until
we have received both the form and your deposit check.
Toto Tours does not accept credit cards
as a form of payment. An installment plan is possible. Our mailing address
is: Toto Tours, 1326 W. Albion Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60626-4753.
Make checks payable to: Toto Tours, Ltd.
THE TOTO SPIRIT
Toto Tours provides Adventure Travel Experiences as differentiated
from tours in the traditional sense. Adventure Travel allows (even encourages)
you to be an active participant. Adventurers can be identified by certain
traits. They are:
- fun-loving optimists who have a sense of humor and accentuate
the positive;
- good natured realists who are willing to accept situations
as they exist;
- undaunted by the unexpected, like occasional delays or bad
weather;
- willing to forego some of the amenities we normally take for
granted;
- eager to try new things & test limits;
- punctual;
- not whiners!
We look forward to tripping the “White Nights”
fantastic with you in these amazing Baltic capitals! If you have any
questions, please call toll-free: 800-565-1241.
THE BOTTOM LINE
(tour prices per person)
Price: $2,595 double occupancy
Private Room: $ 500 extra, if available. (Not required.
Toto Tours can match you with a roommate if you are traveling alone
and prefer to share a room.)
Deposit: $500
Final Payment: $2,095 double / $2,595 single
Final Payment Due: March 31, 2004
(Full payment required with reservation form if enrolling after this
date.)
Included: Nine nights hotel accommodations; one night
aboard overnight train to St. Petersburg; motorcoach transfers; Welcome
Dinner; Farewell Dinner; meals, activities, and transportation as listed
in the itinerary, fully guided and escorted tour.
Not Included: Round-trip air transportation to Vilnius,
Lithuania, and returning from St. Petersburg, Russia; meals and activities
not specifically included in the itinerary; insurance; alcoholic beverages;
soft drinks; bottled water; laundry; telephone calls; faxes; airport
transportation at beginning and end of tour if other than the one provided
group transfer; any other expenses of a personal nature. Tips to drivers
and guides are not included; tipping guidelines for our group tips will
be provided prior to departure.
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