Road Scholar : Home
The Baltic Sea Connection

Program Number: 3340RJ
Start and End Dates:
8/24/2012 - 9/10/2012; 8/23/2013 - 9/9/2013; 5/25/2014 - 6/8/2014; 8/24/2014 - 9/7/2014;
Duration: 17 nights
Location: Lithuania/Estonia/Latvia/Russia
Price starting at: $4,791.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type:
Meals: 41; 16 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 15 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Tucked into a corner of the European continent, on the border with Russia, these Baltic nations have emerged from the era of Communism with a face turned firmly toward the future. See how centuries of living in the shadows of more dominant nations have emphasized their unique characters as they embark on the 21st century. Trace their history, artistry and politics all the way to Russia’s capital.




Highlights

• A former government official discusses the status of the Baltic states in the European Union.
• Enjoy traditional music and dance performances or classical concerts in each country.
• Licensed experts and university staff highlight St. Petersburg's architecture, Moscow's Kremlin and Armory and art museums.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles daily, standing in museums; no wheelchair facilities.




Date Specific Information

5-25-2014, 8-24-2014

Operated as a FLEX program with ample independent time and several meals on your own. The itinerary is as follows: arrival Vilnius, 3 nights; coach to Riga 3 nights; coach to Tallinn, 3 nights; coach to St. Petersburg, 4 nights; departure. Please see day by day for specifics.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Vilnius (Lithuania), 3 nights; coach to Riga (Latvia), 3 nights; coach to Tallinn (Estonia), 2 nights; train to St. Petersburg (Russia), 4 nights; train to Moscow, 4 nights; departure.



Overnight flight from the U.S.A.
1 night
Arrival Vilnius (Lithuania)
3 nights

An expert on regional politics highlights Lithiania's struggle for independence. A museum expert discusses local customs and traditions. Excursions in and around Vilnius focus on history and modern revival. Visit the 14th-century Trakai Castle, situated on an island in Lake Galve, enjoy a walk in the Old Town. Attend a cultural event.



Coach to Riga (Latvia)
3 nights

Learn about Riga’s 800-year-old-history and unique Dutch Renaissance architecture during a walk in Old Town, and explore the Art Nouveau architecture on Alberta Street. See Riga castle and the Dom Cathedral and catch a glimpse of the city’s cosmopolitan future in Riga’s bustling, modern residents. Enjoy the coastal resort town of Yurmala. Attend a cultural event.



Coach to Tallinn (Estonia)
2 nights

Drive along the Baltic coast through Parnu, a seaside resort town on the way to Tallinn. During an expert-led walk explore Tallinn's Upper Town, including a visit to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Dome Church and Lower Town with numerous shops and St. Catherine's Arts and Crafts Center. Meet local residents and discuss the effects of Estonia’s accession to the EU in 2004.



Morning motorcoach transfer to St. Petersburg (Russia)
4 nights

Start exploring St. Petersburg with a visit to the Peter and Paul Fortress, the birthplace of the city and the burial place of the Romanov tsars. Focus on the Romanov dynasty in lectures and during field trips to Tsarskoye Selo and Peterhof, summer residences of the tsars, spend a full day at the world famous State Hermitage Museum, conceived by Catherine the Great in 1764. Attend a lecture on ""Russia Today," addressing modern life and politics. Enjoy an evening performance.



Afternoon train to Moscow
4 nights
Departure

A university professor surveys Russia's economy and contemporary politics, and a licensed expert introduces the Kremlin, Armory Chamber and cathedrals. Walk in politically charged Red Square, and enjoy its medieval architecture reflecting the Russian soul. Conclude with a cultural event and a special farewell dinner.
Accommodations
Vilnius: Four-star hotel on the bank of the Neris River. Riga: Four-star hotel blends modern design and medieval architecture. Tallinn: Four-star hotel short walking distance to the Old Town. St. Petersburg: Four-star hotel facing the fashionable Nevsky Prospekt. Moscow: City-center hotel next to the famous Tchaikovsky concert Hall.
Meals and Lodgings
   Radisson Blu Lietuva Hotel
  Vilnius, Lithuania 3 nights
   Avalon Hotel
  Riga, Latvia 3 nights
   Radisson Blue Olympia Hotel
  Tallinn, Estonia 2 nights
   Oktyabrskaya Hotel
  St. Petersburg, Russia 4 nights
   Peking Hotel
  Moscow, Russia 4 nights
 Radisson Blu Lietuva Hotel
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: The Radisson Blu Lietuva hotel (3-4* ) is located on the bank of the Neris River, a short walk to the Old Town and close to major tourist and cultural sites. Built in 1980, It is a fully renovated conference-style hotel (291 rooms). The simple but elegant interiors reflect the spirit of modern Vilnius, and some guestrooms and bars have a stunning view of the river
  Contact info: Konstitucijos Str. 20
Vilnius,  LT 09308 Lithuania
phone: (+370) 5-272 6271
web: www.radissonblu.com
  Room amenities: Standard guestrooms are not large in size, simple, tastefully furnished, airconditioned, have a full bath or shower and standard amenities, including high speed Internet, TV, telephone, and hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: The hotel features a nice modern lobby; with an ATM, and a number of ships, a fitness center, a business center offering Internet access, several bars, and two restaurants. It is fully air conditioned, offers WiFi service, has 24-hour security, and employs English speaking staff.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Approximately $130 twin basis. Additional hotel nights can be requested by contacting Road Scholar Travel Services. RSTS will confirm the reservation and rate and you will pay the hotel directly by Credit card or by cash for the additional nights. Do note the reservation will be separate from the program reservation and it is likely that you will need to check out of the room and check back in to a different room with the group. Extra nights can also be reserved independently via Internet.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Avalon Hotel
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Opened in June 2007, the newly built, an award-winning 4-star Avalon hotel successfully blends modern design and and medieval traditions of the city architecture. It is located in the city center and adjacent to the Old Town of Riga. Hotel has English speaking staff and 24 hour security.
  Contact info: 70 Kaleju St.
Riga,  LV-1050 Latvia
phone: +371 67169999
web: www.hotelavalon.eu
  Room amenities: All rooms are spacious, air conditioned and offer all standard amenities including private baths or showers, satellite TV, telephone, safes and hairdryers in rooms.
  Facility amenities: Hotel is fully air conditioned, has 111 rooms and suites, has a modern tastefully designed lobby, conference facilities, a business center with Internet access, several bars, a fitness center and a nice restaurant. Hotel offers a wide range of standard services.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Radisson Blue Olympia Hotel
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Built in 1980 this comfortable modern conference style 4* hotel (390 rooms) is located is the heart of Tallinn and in short walking distance to the Old Town and all other important cultural and business landmarks.
  Contact info: Liivalaia 33
Tallinn,  10118 Estonia
phone: +372 622 2900
web: Olumpia www.radissonblu.com/olumpiahotel-tallinn
  Room amenities: Comfortable, air conditioned guest rooms are elegantly furnished and designed in attractive pastel colors. All guest rooms have private bathrooms, satellite TV, and telephones, free Internet access, also mini bars and safes. Private bathrooms offer all modern amenities including hair dryers.
  Facility amenities: The Hotel is fully air conditioned, has a large modern lobby with an ATM machine, a pleasant restaurant and a number of bars. It also has conference facilities, a business center, and a well equipped fitness center. The Hotel offers a variety of standard hotel services. It employs English speaking staff and has 24 hour security.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Oktyabrskaya Hotel
Type: Three-Star Hotel
  Description: A Superior 3 star hotel in the heart of St.Petersburg, next to Nevsky Prospekt, and housed in a partially renovated impressive 19th-century building once known as the Grand Hotel. It is conveniently located in the heart of the city, in walking distance to major museums and theaters.The Hotel is Russian managed, has 24 hour security and employs English speaking staff.
  Contact info: 10 Ligovsky Prospekt
St. Petersburg, NA 191036 Russia
phone: +78125781515
web: www.oktober-hotel.spb.ru
  Room amenities: Spacious comfortable guest rooms with high ceilings and smart reproduction funiture; all have private bathrooms, telephones, and satellite TVs. The guestrooms are spacious and airconditioned. The bathrooms have basic ameniteis and hairdryers. No safes and no WiFi services are provided in standard guestrooms.
  Facility amenities: The hotel has elevators, a spacious lobby with a nice lobby bar, a good restaurant, ATMs, a theater desk and a currency exchange office; also available is a small fitness center, a beauty salon, souvenir shops, and a conference/business center with an Internet access and WiFi services.No WiFi is available in the hotel lobby and standard guest rooms.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Peking Hotel
Type: Three-Star Hotel
  Description: The Hotel Peking is situated in the heart of Moscow, next to the famous Tchaikovsky concert Hall, less than 2 miles from Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Bolshoi Theater. It is a 3-star Russian-managed hotel and a famous Moscow architectural landmark. It is housed in one of the city's unique 'wedding-cake' buildings, constructed in 1956, a typical example of Soviet neogothic-style skyscrapers.
  Contact info: 7 Bolshaya Sadovaya Street
Moscow,   Russia
phone: +7 (495) 620-22-15
web: www.intourist-hotels.ru
  Room amenities: Guest rooms may differ in decor and configuration but they have been renovated, and are elegantly decorated in a traditional style. All are rather spacious, have high ceilings, large windows, and smart reproduction furniture. However, depending on room location one must be prepared to hear street noise if the windows are opened. Rooms are air-conditioned, have safes, a small refrigerator, telephone and television with satellite and local channels. All have updated bathrooms with basic amenities and a hairdryer.
  Facility amenities: The Hotel Peking represents the architectural grandeur of the Soviet era and has elegant, renovated but somewhat old-fashioned rooms (a total of 122 rooms and suites). There are 2 restaurants, a bar, a cafe, a small gym, and a small business center with Internet access (a fee applies). The hotel is air conditioned, has elevators, and a newly renovated lobby with an ATM machine. Services at the hotel are limited, with no laundry service. The friendly hotel staff speaks English and there is 24-hour security.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: $250 -$270 win room, approx. Additional hotel nights can be requested by contacting Road Scholar Travel Services. RSTS will confirm the reservation and rate and you will pay the hotel directly by Credit card or by cash for the additional nights. Do note the reservation will be separate from the program reservation and it is likely that you will need to check out of the room and check back in to a different room with the group. Extra nights can also be reserved independently via Internet.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Day 2: Room check-in starts at 3:00pm. 6.00pm Meet at hotel lobby for RS registration. You will be staying at Radisson Blu Lietuva Hotel that night.
  End of Program:
Day 18: 10.00am. Room checkout is 12:00noon You will be staying at Peking Hotel the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Please refer to "Passport/Visa Details' section.
  Parking availability:
n/a
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
  Train or bus availability: Public transportation is not recommended. Scheduled trains or scheduled buses are available if travel within Europe.
To Start of Program
  Location:  Vilnius
  Nearest city or town:  Vilnius
  Nearest highway: n/a
  Nearest airport:  Vilnius VNO
  Transportation to site: Public transportation is not recommended. Arrival transfers are provided for all participants who obtain air tickets from the Road Scholar Travel Services. Independent travelers may join the group transfer bus free of charge if arrival/ departure flts into VNO and out of DME meet the transfer schedule. Subject to space availability on transfer buses. Otherwise please consider an official taxi upon arrival in VNO (approx cost $30 ) and approx. $100 for departure out of DME in Moscow (to be paid in local currency). Note: The final group transfer schedule will be available 2 weeks prior to arrival on site. Transfer details will be provided by the Program provider - ETC - after enrollment.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Moscow
  Transportation from site: Public transportation is not recommended. Departure transfers are provided for all participants who obtain air tickets from the Road Scholar Travel Services. Independent travelers may join the group transfer bus free of charge if arrival/ departure flts into VNO and out of DME meet the group transfer schedule. Subject to space availability on transfer buses. . Otherwise please consider an official taxi upon arrival in VNO (approx cost $30 ) and approx. $100 for departure out of DME in Moscow (to be paid in local currency). Additional Transfer details will be provided by the Program provider - ETC - after enrollment.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: US departure
(Friday, August 24)
   
 Depart From: your home airport

Day 2: Orientation meeting
(Saturday, August 25)
   
 Arrive To: Arrival in Vilnius in the early afternoon. Transfer to hotel. Rest.
 Afternoon: Orientation meeting at the hotel.
 Dinner: Welcome Dinner.
 Evening: Free evening.
   
Accommodations: Radisson Blu Lietuva Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Trakai Castle/Visit the Museum of Rural Life in Rumsiskes/cultural event
(Sunday, August 26)

Note: expected walking up to 2 miles, comfortable shoes are a must
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Theme of the Day: Lithuania as a Baltic country with a1000-year old history. Drive to historic Trakai for a educational visit to to the Trakai Castle and a presentation on Lithuanian history at the Museum of History.·See historic Trakai Castle, built in1406 by Grade Duke Vytautas and beautifully nestled on an island in the middle of Lake Galve; learn about Lithuania's medieval history and the important events associated with Trakai, a one-time capital of Lithuania (all information is presented by the museum curator or a licensed expert).
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: Continue on to the town of Rumsiskes (about 40 miles from Vilnius) for an educational visit to an to an open-air museum to learn about rural life, national crafts, and local customs and traditions in from a museum expert.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel or in a restaurant in the city
 Evening: Evening cultural event.
   
Accommodations: Radisson Blu Lietuva Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Lecture on today's Lithuania/History and Architectural highlights of Vilnius
(Monday, August 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Lecture by a university professor: "General overview of the Baltic States. Lithuania's integration into the European Community." After the lecture, a walking excursion of the city begins, led by an expert, focusiing on the history and architectural highlights of Vilnius.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own.
 Afternoon: The city overview continues. Walk through the campus of the University of Vilnius, learn of the rich interior of Peter and Paul Cathedral and the Church of St. Anna from an expert. Continue through the Gates of Dawn and stop at the site of the ancient synagogue. See numerous medieval buildings of baroque architecture.
 Dinner: Dinner at a city restaurant.
 Evening: Evening free.
   
Accommodations: Radisson Blu Lietuva Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Vilnius-Riga transfer
(Tuesday, August 28)

Note: All transfers are done by a comfortable air conditioned motor coach with facilities on board.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: After breakfast, check out of hotel. Drive to Riga, Latvia, via Pilsrundele to see the baroque palace of Rundele, the former summer residence of the Duke of Courland. (expected total travel time about 5 hours).
 Lunch: Stopover for light lunch en route to Riga.
 Afternoon: Late afternoon arrival in Riga. Riga, founded in 1201 by the German Bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals; it boasts a kaleidoscope of architectural styles, a busy seaport, and a rich cultural life. Check in at hotel.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
 Evening: Evening free to relax or have an independent walk to enjoy the Old Town near your hotel.
   
Accommodations: Avalon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Lecture on social and political issues in Latvia/Museum of Latvian Occupation/Walking excursion in Old Town-history and architecture/Cultural event
(Wednesday, August 29)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Lecture: “Latvia today, the political and economic situation in Latvia, and its socio-demographic structure.” Visit the Museum of Latvian Occupation, featuring many items and documents related to Latvia’s struggle for independence
 Lunch: Lunch on your own in town.
 Afternoon: Learn about the 800-year history and architecture of Riga during an expert led walk in Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), See medieval buildings, Riga Castle, and the Dome Cathedral. You will see the area regarded by specialists as the capital of Art Nouveau architecture, known as New Style ("Jugendstil" in German). Art Nouveau appeared in architecture and furniture in the 1890s, and nearly half of the buildings in the center of Riga were built in this striking, flamboyant style. Participate in an Expert led visit to the Art Nouveau Museum.
 Dinner: Dinner at a restaurant in Old Town.
 Evening: Concert or theatrical performance (subject to performance schedule).
   
Accommodations: Avalon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Presentation on Latvian music and folklore/Excursion to Yurmala
(Thursday, August 30)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: A presentation on Latvian national music: Learn of Latvian folkloric traditions and musical instruments. After the presentation, drive to the nearby seaside resort of Yurmala, which is famous for its music festivals,concerts, art galleries and health spas.
 Lunch: Lunch at a restaurant in Yurmala.
 Afternoon: Spend part of the afternoon in Yurmala enjoying this seaside town before transferring back to Riga. Admire the stunning city skyline returning to Riga, an unforgettable sight!.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own
   
Accommodations: Avalon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Riga-Parnu, Estonia-Tallinn
(Friday, August 31)

Note: Total travel time is about 4-5 hours.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel in Riga.
 Morning: Travel from Riga to Tallinn, Estonia (travel time about 4 hours). Enjoy the beautiful Estonian countryside and the picturesque Baltic coastline, numerous hills and lakes on the way to Paarnu, a seaside resort town, where a short stop is planned.
 Lunch: Lunch en route to Tallinn.
 Afternoon: Continue on to Tallinn with a late-afternoon arrival and check into hotel.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel or city restaurant.
 Evening: Evening is free to relax or to have an independent walk in the Old Town of Tallin to enjoy this charming blend of medieval tranquility and modern urban life. See numerous shops, galleries, souvenir markets, and restaurants.
   
Accommodations: Radisson Blue Olympia Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Discussion on social security/Walking excursion in Old Town/Cultural event
(Saturday, September 1)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Discussion: 'Estonia today: 'The Estonian economy and social security issues in the aftermath of Estonia's entry into the EU''. Learn about the history of Estonia and the architecture of Old Tallinn. Visit Toompea Castle, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Dome Church, and other sites in the Upper Town.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own in Old Town.
 Afternoon: A walk in Old Tallinn continues, led by an expert: see the Lower Town and St. Spend time at Catherine's Arts and Crafts Center. Enjoy an organ recital at St. Nicholas Church. Free time.
 Dinner: Dinner at a restaurant at hotel or in Old Town (TBA).
   
Accommodations: Radisson Blue Olympia Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10: Tallinn-St. Petersburg, Russia, transfer/Arrival in St. Petersburg
(Sunday, September 2)

Note: expected travel time about 7 hours on an airconditioned motorcoach with facilities on board).
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Hotel check-out and early morning motorcoach transfer to St. Petersburg, Russia, with a stopover in Narva for customs and border crossing formalities (expected travel time about 7 hours, by an airconditioned motorcoach with facilities on board).
 Lunch: Boxed lunch en route to St. Petersburg.
 Afternoon: Late afternoon arrival in St. Petersburg. Hotel check-in. Rest.
 Dinner: Early dinner at hotel.
 Evening: Evening to rest.
   
Accommodations: Oktyabrskaya Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: City excursion/Evening performance
(Monday, September 3)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Theme of the Day: History and Architecture of St. Petersburg: architectural highlights during a motorcoach sightseeing led by an expert. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral, see the birthplace of the city and the burial place of the Romanovs. See the Winter Palace, the Bronze Horseman statue, the numerous buildings of the University of St. Petersburg, the Summer Garden, and many other historic sites and architectural treasures of this magnificent city.
 Lunch: Tume for Lunch on your own
 Afternoon: City sightseeing continues. See St Isaac's Cathedral (exterior only). Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Kazan.Drive through Nevsky Prospekt, and enjoy the sights of numerous canals, palaces, and bridges.
 Dinner: Early dinner at hotel or city restaurant. After dinner, transfer to an evening performance.
 Evening: National dance and music performance (or similar).
   
Accommodations: Oktyabrskaya Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12: Field trip to the Hermitage Museum/Free afternoon
(Tuesday, September 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: A full day expert led educational visit to the Hermitage Museum, one of the world's greatest art galleries. View the dazzling collection of Old Masters, French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, as well as numerous items of all eras, including a newly revealed collection of masterpieces now on display (3 hours to be spent with a licensed expert).
 Lunch: Lunch on our own
 Afternoon: Continue your visit to the Hermitage Museum on your own, or return to hotel or spend this afternoon to explore the city on your own.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel or city restaurant.
 Evening: Free evening.
   
Accommodations: Oktyabrskaya Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: The Romanov Dynasty: Visit the summer residences in Tsarskoye Selo and Peterhof
(Wednesday, September 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: ·Theme of the Day: “The Romanov Dynasty (of Russian tsars)”. An educational visit to one of the tsar’s former summer residences: see Catherine’s Palace in Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin), an elaborate baroque resident built in 1752 for Tsarina Elizabeth to honor the memory of her mother Catherine. See the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, the extraordinary Amber Room, decorated with six tons of solid amber carved and framed in gold leaf. The original room was confiscated by the Nazis during World War II and meticulously reconstructed.
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: ·Continue on to Peterhof – a summer residence of Peter the Great. Walk with an expert to admire the famous, stunning golden fountains, the palace grounds, and other constructions in the park: See (exterior only) the Grand Palace (the “Russian Versailles", now a museum), the Mon Plaisir Palace, Peter’s more humble villa, the Grand Cascade, which is the centerpiece of the palace grounds, other pavilions, and the spectacular Lower Park itself, along the Gulf of Finland, featuring over 140 fountains to enjoy (note: excursions to palaces and other museums on site are not part of the visit, see the exteriors only)
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
 Evening: Free for independent activities or performances.
   
Accommodations: Oktyabrskaya Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Lecture on "Russia Today"/St. Petersburg-Moscow transfer
(Thursday, September 6)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel. Check-out.
 Morning: Lecture: "Russia Today: an overview of the Russian society, political system,and issues of religion and ethnicity in modern Russia" (presented by a university professor). Q&A session.
 Lunch: Lunch in a restaurant in the city.
 Afternoon: Transfer to train station. Travel to Moscow by Hi speed train (4:45 pm - 8:30 pm). Note: Seats on the train are similar to those on a motorcoach with plenty of legroom, but limited space for luggage; facilities on board. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel.
 Dinner: Dinner snack and water are provided on train.
 Evening: Arrival in Moscow. Transfer to the program hotel.
   
Accommodations: Peking Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: City excursion/A presentation on Russia's rich musical heritage and traditions /Evening performance
(Friday, September 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: City excursion by motorcoach with stops at historical and architectural sites: Red Square, St Basil's Cathedral, the GUM department store, Moscow University, the Novodevichy Convent, Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and other important sites.
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: A Field trip to the Museum of Russian musical Heritage to learn of Russian composers and musical traditions ( to be presented by the museum curator)
 Dinner: Dinner.
 Evening: Evening performance: the Moscow Circus OR a concert (subject to performance schedule).
   
Accommodations: Peking Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 16: The Kremlin compound and the Armory Chamber/Moscow Metro ride
(Saturday, September 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: ·An educational trip to the legendary Kremlin compound: this is a self-contained, walled city (fortress) with an armory, churches, and a palace, which for hundreds of years was the symbol of the powerful Russian state. You will see the exterior of the Kremlin Palace, its cathedrals, the legendary Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell. Cathedrals in the Kremlin compound include the golden-domed Cathedral of the Annunciation and the majestic Cathedral of the Archangel, a harmonious mélange of Italian Renaissance and traditional Russian architecture. The walk through the Kremlin grounds is led by a licensed expert Continue on with a visit to the Armory Chamber, featuring a unique collection of arms and armaments used through the ages, as well as various Russian royal treasures, including famous Faberge eggs commissioned by the Romanov tsars (extensive walking up to 2 miles).
 Lunch: Time for Lunch on your own
 Afternoon: Free time to explore Red Square, or Have a ride on the Moscow Metro (if desired).
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel.
 Evening: Free time for independent discoveries.
   
Accommodations: Peking Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17: Tretyakov gallery/Lecture/Russian arts and crafts Center /Farewell dinner
(Sunday, September 9)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: An expert led visit to the Tretyakov Picture Gallery, housing the world?s finest and mostextensive collection of Russian art. Its treasures include ornate, Byzantine-influenced medieval icons and paintings by the famous ?Peredvizhniki? group of artists of the 19th century, including famous paintings by Surikov, Kramskoy, Repin, and others (the museum collection is presented by a licensed specialist on Russian art).
 Lunch: Time for Lunch on your own
 Afternoon: Transfer to the Center for preservation of Russia's multi-ehtnic traditions and arts and crafts. An Informal viewing of Arts and crafts from all corners of the multi ethnic Russian Federation. Lecture" USA -Russia relations" (presented by a university professor). Q&A session.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner.
   
Accommodations: Peking Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: depart from Moscow
(Monday, September 10)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
 Morning: Program ends, transfer to airport for flights home.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Vilnius Amber
Interesting collection of Amber for those who wish to learn more about Amber which the Baltic sea is famous for. Program staff will assist you with this visit if desired. Entrance fee is additional.
  Jewish
Museum is dedicated to the Jewish history in Lithuania featuring numerous documents and photographs related to various historic periods. Program staff will assist with this visit if desired. Entrance fee is additional.
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Woman in Amber


Author: Agate Nesaule


Description: In this American Book Award-winning memoir, Nesaule recounts the horrors she witnessed and experienced as a young girl during World War II in Latvia. A gripping testimony of survival.



Among the Russians


Author: Colin Thubron


Description: The marvelous account of a 10,000-mile journey by car from St. Petersburg and the Baltic States south to Georgia and Armenia in 1981. A gifted writer and intrepid traveler, Thubron grapples with the complexities of Russian identity in this lyrical book.



Baltic Sea States Map


Author: Freytag & Berndt


Description: This detailed (1:800,000), double-sided map covers not just the Baltic States but the entire Baltic region from Copenhagen across to Gdansk, St. Petersburg, Oslo and Stockholm.



Baroque and Rococo Art


Author: Germain Bazin


Description: An excellent illustrated survey of Baroque and Rococo art and architecture, this volume in the acclaimed "World of Art" series is a good companion to the golden age of Middle Europe.



Bradt Guide Baltic Cities


Author: Neil Taylor


Description: This second, expanded edition includes Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius, Kaliningrad as well as Tartu, Liepaja, Kaunas and Klaipeda.



Cathedrals and Castles, The Cathedral Builders of the Middle Ages


Author: Alain Erlande-Brandenburg


Description: This pocket-size encyclopedia of the art, architecture and culture of the Middle Ages features hundreds of drawings, color illustrations and a brief chronology.



Coup de Grace


Author: Marguerite Yourcenar


Description: A novel set against the backdrop of the Latvian War of Independence in the aftermath of WWI.



Crusader Castles of the Teutonic Knights, The Stone Castles of Latvia and Estonia


Author: Stephen Turnbull


Description: A heavily illustrated history of the medieval crusader castles of the Livonian Order (1185-1560) of Teutonic Knights in present-day Estonia and Latvia. With contemporary photos.



Estonia and the Estonians


Author: Toivo U. Raun


Description: A scholarly, comprehensive history of Estonia from prehistory to the 1990s in the Hoover Institution's "Studies of Nationalities" series.



Eyewitness Guide Moscow


Author: Eyewitness Guides


Description: This outstanding guide covers Moscow's culture, history and attractions with maps, site plans and hundreds of color photographs.



Eyewitness Guide St. Petersburg


Author: Eyewitness Guides


Description: With excellent local maps and site plans, this outstanding visual guide introduces the culture, history and attractions of St. Petersburg.



Eyewitness Travel Guide Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania


Author: Eyewitness Guides


Description: Take along this compact, profusely illustrated travel guide featuring bright color photography, dozens of maps and a region-by-region synopsis. With a 50-page section on where to stay and eat.



Land of the Firebird, The Beauty of Old Russia


Author: Suzanne Massie


Description: Massie traces both minuscule details and larger movements in pre-revolutionary Russian art, literature and daily life in this affectionate overview of 19th-century palaces, courts and culture.



Lonely Planet Baltic Phrasebook


Author: Paul Jokubaitis, Jana Teteris, Lisa Trei


Description: Learn the basics of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian with this handy guide.



Nicholas and Alexandra


Author: Robert Massie


Description: This entertaining and well-researched history traces the royal relationship and explores how a disease determined the destiny of rulers, the disintegration of the empire and the course of Russian history.



Set Sail for Murder


Author: Carolyn G. Hart


Description: Retired newspaper reporter Henrietta O' Dwyer Collins, Henrie O to her friends, joins her dear old friend Jimmy Lennox on a Baltic cruise in this seventh installment in the cozy series.



The Baltic


Author: Alan Palmer


Description: Palmer chronicles the Baltic region from the Viking era and Byzantine Empire through wars, uprisings and other political conflicts of the twentieth century, and on to modern times, where he finds a group of nations and peoples poised to emerge as some of Europe's most vital democracies. In addition to the prolific British historian's considerable learning, he provides some rather entertaining anecdotes.



The Baltic Revolution


Author: Anatol Lieven


Description: A Latvian correspondent for the London Times, Lieven weaves history, interviews and analysis into a vivid cultural portrait of post-Glasnost Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.



The Dogs of Riga


Author: Henning Mankell


Description: Swedish detective Kurt Wallander travels from Ystad to Latvia on the shadowy trail of a grisly murder in this second book, steeped in Baltic ambiance.



The Northern Crusades


Author: Eric Christiansen


Description: The wilder-than-fiction story of the conquest and conversion of the pagan tribes of the Baltic coasts by the crusading knights of the Teutonic Order from the 13th to the 15th centuries.





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