Home Just Announced Our Hosts Destinations Special Interests Contact Us This Space Intentionally Left Blank My Account My Cart
Call today! 1-800-809-9910
Morris Murdock Escorted Tours
 
Description Itinerary Things to Know Hosted By Accommodations Email a Friend

Circling the Alps - SOLD OUT

From: 0 pp/dbl occupancy

Set in the beautiful Bavarian Alps, this beautiful LDS Travel Study tour features a once-in-a-lifetime experience of attending the Oberammergau Passion Play, along with enjoying Germany's natural beauties and the amazing works of man. The stunning mountains, lakes, waterfalls and villages of the Alps will be contrasted with the genius of Michelangelo's David, Leonardo's Last Supper, Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, and other renaissance art masterpieces too numerous to mention. As we circle the Alps, we'll take a relaxing travel pace with stays in each destination for at least two nights. This experience will leave you refreshed and inspired.


Optional Pricing:
• $5700 Single Occupancy

Price Includes:
• Deluxe motor-coach transport during tour
• Local guides in each country

• LDS Travel Tour Director

• Hotel accommodations in moderate-class hotels
• Sightseeing tours as outlined on the itinerary
• Oberammergau Passion Play ticket
• Entrance fees
• Gratuities
• Group Travel insurance
• Travel documents and carry-on bags
• All breakfasts and dinner on itinerary

Price does not include:
• Round-trip airfare from Salt Lake City to Munich (group air on Delta Airlines available)
• Additional possible airfare from cities
• Additional possible air fuel surcharges, taxes or fees
• Sightseeing not included on the itinerary or events listed as “optional”
• Additional hotel accommodations
• Items of a personal nature (i.e., passport, phone calls, room service, Internet, etc.)
• Additional travel insurance and cancellation waiver
• Lunches

Payment Terms:
• $2000 pp due at time of booking
 Final payment due 90 days prior to departure
• All payments are non refundable under payment terms




Get A Quote
Map of Day 1: Sun, June 06, 2010 - USA · Munich
We will depart in the afternoon for our flight to Munich, Germany.

Day 2: Mon, June 07, 2010 - Munich · Salzburg
After we arrive in Munich, we will board our coach and make the short trip to Salzburg, Austria and settle in for our stay in this charming, elegant city. Upon arrival in Salzburg, we will tour Mozart's birthplace, stroll the Getreidegasse, as well as sites from the movie, the Sound of Music. In the afternoon we will visit the Hohensalzburg for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding countryside, and visit the stunning cathedrals in the city's center and have free time for strolling and soaking in the ambience of this picture perfect town before checking into our hotel. (D)

Day 3: Tues, June 08, 2010 - Salzburg
This morning we will drive into the mountains outside the city for a tour of the salt mines which have given the city its name. We will then visit the lovely town of Berchtesgaden for free time and lunch. In the afternoon we will go to Kehlstein (Eagle's Nest), Hitler's retreat during World War II. In the evening we will have free time for strolling in Salzburg as you search for a dirndl or lederhosen or perhaps just enjoy a bosna and some chocolate. (CB, D)

Day 4: Wed, June 09, 2010 - Salzburg · Venice
We will depart Salzburg early so that we will arrive in Venice in time for an unforgettable introduction to this fascinating city. This will be our longest travel day, but we will break it up with a lunch stop in the delightful city of Villach on the Drava River. Off the beaten path and little visited by tourists, this city has well-preserved Gothic and Baroque churches as well as delightful outdoor cafes and shops. We will then continue on to Venice. After checking into our hotel, we will board a vaporetto for the trip into the heart of the city where we will have dinner and a romantic evening gondola ride—and possible kiss under the bridge of sighs. We will then have some free time in Piazza San Marcos to listen to the “orchestras” and enjoy a gelato! (B, D)

Day 5: Thurs, June 10, 2010 - Venice
Venice was known as the “Queen of the Seas” during the Renaissance. This unique city is built on a sprawling archipelago for 117 islands and is traversed by more than 150 canals. During the morning, we will visit the Doge's Palace and the Cathedral. We will also have the opportunity to ride an elevator up the Campanile for a wonderful view of the city and will also enjoy a glass-blowing demonstration. In the afternoon there will be free time for shopping or a vaporetto ride to the Lido for fun in the sun. (B, D)

Day 6: Fri, June 11, 2010 - Venice · Florence
As we reach the mid-point in our adventure, we will settle in for a relaxing three night stay in the marvelous city of Florence. On our drive to Florence, we will stop for lunch in Bologna and have the opportunity to visit the cathedral there—one of the largest in the world. Then we will travel on to the incomparable city of Florence. Primarily because of the patronage of the wealthy Medici family, Florence became the liveliest and most creative city in Europe during the Middle Ages. We will be thrilled with the artistic beauty of the city. Treasures of every kind abound—from the breathtaking architecture of the Pitti Palace and the Duomo to the charming simplicity of the Ponte Vecchio. We will spend our time in Florence seeing masterpieces of Western art, eating gelato, and enjoying the charming atmosphere of this historic wonder. (B, D)

Day 7: Sat, June 12, 2010 - Florence
We will begin our day with a walking tour of the city and will visit St. Croix, the Duomo and the Baptistry. Begun in the 13th century and completed 140 years later, the cathedral has a green, rose and white marble façade. Brunelleschi's red-tiled dome is a distinctive feature of the city. At the baptistery we will see Ghiberti's marvelous three-dimensional bronze doors depicting Bible stories and known throughout the world as the “Gates of Paradise.” The afternoon will be free for shopping and exploring. (B, D)

Day 8: Sun, June 13, 2010 - Florence
In the morning we will visit the Academia, home of Michelangelo's masterpiece, David. We will then visit the chapel and tombs of the Medici family—also featuring the work of Michelangelo. After free time for lunch we will go to the Uffizi gallery, located in a Renaissance Palace designed by Vasari, where we will admire great collections of paintings and sculpture by widely recognized artists—particularly Botticelli, Massaccio, and Piero della Francesca. (B, D)

Day 9: Mon, June 14, 2010 - Florence · Milan
We will depart Florence and travel west to the coast and the city of Pisa where we will see the famous leaning tower. After free time for lunch, we will continue our journey north to Milan. The second largest city in Italy, Milan is the economic heart of Italy and is an international commercial center and, because of its location, has been for hundreds of years. (B, D)

Day 10: Tues, June 15, 2010 - Milan · Lucerne
During our morning visit to Santa Maria della Grazie, we will see Leonardo's Last Supper. We will then travel to the center of the city and visit the famous white-marble Cathedral of Milan. It has 135 pinnacles and more than 200 statues. After seeing the interior, you will have the chance to stroll on the roof of this great building. After lunch we will travel from Italy to Switzerland and into the beautiful mountain country surrounding Lucerne. No longer simply circling the Alps, we will be in them! (B, D)

Day 11: Wed, June 16, 2010 - Lucerne
During our morning drive to Brienze, we will bask in the glorious scenery and take a relaxing boat ride to Interlaken. We will travel by cable car to Murren and enjoy stunning views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. We will also visit the majestic and powerful Trammelbach Falls. Keep your eyes open and maybe you will spot a rare Edelweiss as we journey through the mountains. In the late afternoon we will return to Lucerne and we will visit the Kapelbrucke, Spreuerbrucke, the Lion Monument and Old Town. (B, D)

Day 12: Thurs, June 17, 2010 - Lucerne · Bavaria
After an early departure from Lucerne, we will travel to Bavaria where we will visit Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles. These were the residences of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. An eccentric recluse, Ludwig depleted the treasury of his country building extravagant castles and died in mysterious circumstances. Neuschwanstein seems unreal in its romantic Alpine setting and Linderhof is certainly the most elaborate “hunting lodge” you will ever see! In the afternoon we will visit the fabulous Rococo Weiskirche—it looks somewhat plain and simple on the outside, but just wait until you see the interior. (B, D)

Day 13: Fri, June 18, 2010 - Bavaria: Oberammergau
After a morning at leisure, we will travel to Oberammergau, a delightful town that has been home to skilled wood carvers since the 12th century. There are many interesting things to see in this quaint town. Scenes from the scriptures and from fairy tales are painted on the walls of buildings. We will attend the marvelous Passion Play, which has been performed by the town's inhabitants every ten years since 1634—when the thirty years war and the deadly bubonic plague killed almost half the population of Germany. The people of Oberammergau vowed to produce this play each decade if they could be spared. They were, and here we are 350 years later! (B,L,D)

Day 14: Sat, June 19, 2010 - Bavaria · Munich · USA
Bidding a fond farewell to Europe and the Alps, we will travel by coach to Munich and then board our flights back to the USA. (B, D)


Read more: http://morrismurdock.com/tours/tour_detail.cfm?ID=388&Grouping=Europe&page=tours#ixzz0VB6IasPy
Get A Quote

What to Expect

Morris Murdock will handle most of the tour preparations for you, however there are still a few things you should know and some details to take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind.  Please review the information below to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. 

 

Airline Information

Group Air Tickets

Where group flights are offered, tickets will be issued approximately 30 days prior to departure.  Morris Murdock Escorted Tours can assist with domestic flights from your home city to the designated international gateway city.  Electronic tickets will be issued where possible.

 

Air Tickets Purchased Independently of the Tour
We urge you to check airline cancellation penalties before purchasing airline tickets since departure times and flights can change. Tours may also be cancelled due to low enrollments. Morris Murdock Escorted Tours does not accept liability for cancellation penalties related to domestic or international airline tickets purchased independently in conjunction with a tour. We recommend that you check with us prior to purchasing any airline tickets.

 

Seat Assignments:

We understand that your seat assignment is an important part of your tour experience.  Each airline has a different policy regarding pre-assigned seat assignments and we are bound by their rules.  Morris Murdock Escorted Tours will advise the airlines of your seating preference and will do all possible to secure your seat request.  Please understand that in cases where pre-assigned seats are not available, seats will be assigned at the airport.  We recommend arriving at the airport early to ensure the best seat selection.

 

Frequent Flyers:

We will be happy to add your frequent flyer number to any airline reservation created by Morris Murdock Escorted Tours.  Please understand that we are unable to assist with securing reservations for free or reduced cost frequent flyer tickets.  Please contact your individual airline for assistance.

Airline seat assignments and flight schedules are subject to change without notice.

Baggage

Most airlines, for both domestic and international flights, now charge additional fees for checking bags.  These charges are not included in the tour price and are the traveler's responsibility.  Baggage handling is normally included in the tour price.

 

 

Transfers

Some tours do not include group air service.  In cases where the tour is designated as “Land Only”, the tour begins at the airport of the arrival city and ends at the airport of the departure city.  Individual flight schedules should be coordinated to arrive and depart in connection with the group transfer to and from the hotel.  The time of this transfer will be provided at a later date. Transfers at other times will require an additional charge.  Please contact us at 800-809-9910 for assistance.

 

Passport Information

All participants traveling outside of the USA must be in possession of a valid passport during time of travel. Your passport number, date, place of issue, and birth date is now required by many foreign governments, airlines and trains, and may be required to confirm services.

Names on your airline tickets must match the first and last name listed on your passport. Your passport must be valid for six months after your return to the U.S.

If you need assistance obtaining or renewing your passport, please click here http://www.us.cibt.com/home.aspx?loggedin=45217-1027200963347

At no time will Morris Murdock Escorted Tours be responsible in the event you fail to obtain a passport or valid visa and are unable to travel as a result of it.

Weather

Please refer to the chart below to find the average temperatures and rainfall.  As you get closer to departure, you may wish to visit www.weather.com to find the most updated forecasts for your trip.

 

Climatological Information

Month

Mean Temperature oF

Mean Total Rainfall (mm)

Mean Number of Rain Days

Daily
Minimum

Daily
Maximum

Jan

25.3

36.9

48.0

10.0

Feb

26.2

39.7

45.2

8.6

Mar

32.2

48.2

57.7

10.5

Apr

37.0

54.5

69.9

10.9

May

45.0

64.4

93.4

11.6

Jun

50.7

68.9

127.6

13.8

Jul

54.7

73.6

131.6

12.0

Aug

54.1

73.4

110.5

11.4

Sep

48.0

65.8

86.3

9.6

Oct

40.5

55.8

65.4

9.1

Nov

32.4

44.4

71.0

10.7

Dec

27.9

38.7

60.8

11.2

 

 

Travel Insurance

Trip cancellation insurance is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended for ALL destinations.  This insurance will cover you in case you need to cancel a tour after final payment has been made.  Certain restrictions apply. 

 

Currency

The currency in Europe is the EURO.  Please visit http://www.xe.com for today's exchange rate.

 

ATM's are widely available and may provide a more favorable exchange rate than banks.

 

Packing and Clothing Suggestions

Your days on tour will mostly consist of walking, standing, and getting on and off the coach.  Please dress in casual clothing that can be easily layered for a change in temperature.  Comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles are a must.

 

It is also advisable to pack a change of clothing and medication in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage goes astray. 

 

The airlines allow only limited amount of liquids in your carry on luggage.  You should plan to follow the 3-1-1 rule which allows a maximum of 3.4 ounces of liquid; 1 quart sized plastic zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger.  Please see http://www.tsa.gov/311 for details.

 

Communication

Internet service is widely available in your hotels and at internet cafes throughout the country.  A nominal fee will be charged for usage.

 

Please check with your cell-phone provider for information on roaming charges.  Depending on the type of cell phone you have, you may be able to purchase a local SIM card to insert into your cell phone and make calls at a much lower rate.

 

Gratuities

The tips for your guide and driver are included in the cost of your tour.

 

Time Zone

The time in Germany is 7 hours ahead of Mountain Time.

 



Get A Quote
Michael Phillips Bio

Circling the Alps

Michael Phillips's Biography Michael Phillips is a Leadership Consultant and former Professor of Humanities at Brigham Young University. He earned a PhD from the Committee on History of Culture at the University of Chicago, where he trained in Art History, History, and Sociology. Michael Phillips works with corporate leaders across the country and is in demand as a speaker, trainer, and coach. Widely traveled, he has taught, lectured, and led tours throughout the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. Michael Phillips is past-President and Executive Director of the National Association for Humanities Education and served on the executive committee of the Association of Third World Studies. He is a leadership associate of the Institute for Educational Inquiry and an associate of the Center for the Improvement of Teacher Education and Schooling. He has been a guest lecturer for the University of the West Indies, the University of Puerto Rico, Tulane University, Marquette University, and the University of Louisiana, Lafayette, to name a few. He is the author or editor of more than 35 books, articles and reviews, and his work has appeared in the American Journal of Sociology, Interdisciplinary Humanities, Belizean Studies, Of Human Interest, The New Era, and The Beijing Daily Journal. Michael Phillips grew up in Portland, Oregon, where he was involved in everything from figure skating and gymnastics to music and theater. He received both his Bachelor?s and Master?s degrees from BYU before going to the University of Chicago. He served a mission for the LDS Church in Honduras and Belize, 1982?1984. He has traveled around the world performing with the BYU Young Ambassadors, including a seven-week residency at the Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans during the summer of 1984. He has also performed with the University Singers throughout the United States, Jordan, Israel, and Egypt and continues to perform from time to time. He is married to Rebecca Wright Phillips, who is an Associate Professor of Dance at BYU and is currently the Director of the Dancers Company. Michael and his wife met while performing with the Young Ambassadors. They live in the Rock Canyon area of Provo, where they are actively involved in community activities. They have served as co-chairs of the Utah County chapter of the BYU Alumni Association and are active in the local arts community. They are the parents of three children.



Tours Currently Featuring Michael Phillips

Get A Quote



details



details

Venice Mestre Hotel Alexander

the Hotel Alexander is in the heart of the new business center of the city, only 10 minutes away from Venice

details

Oberammergau Hotel TBA



details
    LDS Travel Study
    
Softrip CMS
Version 1.10.1.23035