Road Scholar : Home
World Academy Segment 4: Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Brazil

Program Number: 20769RJ
Start and End Dates:
2/22/2013 - 3/12/2013;
Duration: 18 nights
Location: Brazil/Argentina/Uruguay
Price starting at: $5,289.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Ocean Cruises
Meals: 48; 17 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 17 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Be a part of Road Scholar World Academy on this segment of the voyage that begins with two nights at magnificent Iguazu Falls. Embark in Buenos Aires, experience sophisticated Montevideo and explore Brazil in-depth.




Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day. Dirt and stone paths and other uneven terrain. Stairs without railings. Hot and humid conditions.



This program is a part of Road Scholar World Academy 2013: Exploring South America (Program #20752), which begins on January 4, 2013.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

Iguazu Falls (Brazil), 2 nights; aboard mv Voyager, 15 nights.



Days 1-2: Arrival Iguazu Falls (Brazil):

Marvel at spectacular Iguazu Falls, rising 100 feet higher than Niagara, on excursions on both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. Walk through a tropical bird sanctuary. Lodging: Comfortable hotel near Iguazu Falls.



Days 3-7: Flight to Buenos Aires (Argentina) / embark mv Voyager / Montevideo (Uruguay) / at sea:

Enjoy a full day in Buenos Aires to explore the Plaza de Mayo, La Recoleta Cemetery and more. Sail to Montevideo, Uruguay’s sophisticated capital, to find beautiful buildings ranging from colonial to Art Deco. Begin an expert-led onboard course on The Age of Colonization and Imperialism.



Days 8-14: São Paulo (Brazil) / Ilhabela / Paraty / Rio de Janeiro / at sea:

Begin your discovery of Brazil in its largest city, São Paulo, and visit the Instituto Butantan venom farm, where about 1,000 snakes are kept for poison extraction. Transfer to a schooner to sail around the lovely island of Ilhabela. Experience the beautifully preserved colonial town of Paraty. Spend two days in energetic Rio, including an ascent to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car.



Days 15-18: Salvador da Bahia / at sea / Recife / disembark / departure:

Continue up the coast to Salvador, one of the oldest cities in the Americas; a field trip includes the ornate São Francisco Church. Explore Recife, known as “Brazilian Venice” for its many bridges, and the nearby colonial city of Olinda.



Voyager

Sail aboard the 540-guest Voyager, Voyages of Discovery’s newest flagship.. Newly upgraded in 2012, Voyager boasts all the amenities and facilities of a large ocean liner while offering the convenience, flexibility, and intimate ambience of a small ship. It features spacious public areas, comfortable staterooms and balcony suites, a choice of open seating restaurants and al fresco dining, a variety of lounges and bars including the elegant Scott’s Lounge, a library and internet center, a swimming pool, two whirlpools, a beauty center and a gym. Voyager is your home at sea and you will be welcomed back warmly each time you return to the ship.
Meals and Lodgings
   Iguassu Resort
  Iguazu Falls, Brazil 1 night
   Hotel Amerian Portal del Iguazu
  Iguazu Falls, Brazil 1 night
   MV Voyager
  Iguazu Falls, Brazil
Aboard the MV Voyager, USA		 15 nights
 Iguassu Resort
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: Location: Stay in Foz do Iguacu, just a short drive to Bird Park and Tancredo Neves Bridge. Features: Enjoy an array of amenities at this smoke-free hotel like 3 restaurants, a golf course, and an outdoor pool. Perks: Free Wi-Fi and free valet parking are available, and a free continental breakfast is served daily. Family: Bring the family and take advantage of miniature golf, a children's pool, and childcare. Rooms: Make yourself at home in one of 195 guestrooms, all with free Wi-Fi, balconies, and cable TV.
  Ship Information: n/a
  Contact info: Av.Das Cataratas
6845 Foz do Iguazu
Foz do Iguazu,  85853 Brazil
phone: 866-539-0036
  Room amenities: Blackout drapes/curtains Complimentary toiletries Cribs/infant beds available Daily housekeeping Electronic/magnetic keys Hair dryer Handheld showerhead In-room safe Private bathroom Shower only Access via exterior corridors Air conditioning Balcony Cable television service Courtyard view Free Wi-Fi Garden view Hypo-allergenic bedding available Lake view Minibar Multi-line phone Pool view Rainfall showerhead Wake-up calls .
  Facility amenities: Beach/pool umbrellas Garden Picnic area Pool table Shopping on site Smoke-free property Suitable for children Swimming pool - children's Swimming pool - outdoor Television in lobby Air-conditioned public areas Billiards Coffee shop or café Free valet parking Free Wi-Fi Golf course on site Luggage storage Number of floors - 2 Number of restaurants - 3 Number of spa tubs - 7 Total number of rooms - 195 Tours/ticket assistance .
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: TBD Contact PD
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Hotel Amerian Portal del Iguazu
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Just where 2 rivers and 3 countries meet...With its unique location, just a few metres from the Hito Tres Fronteras, Amerian Portal del Iguazú Hotel has a stunning view of the joint of the Iguazú and Paraná rivers.. Originally, it was at this point where the outstanding waterfalls were formed but due to an eruption occurred millions of years ago, the waterfalls went backwards to their current position. Therefore, the Hotel is considered to be positioned at a good energy point
  Ship Information: n/a
  Contact info: Av. Tres Fronteras 780 y Av Eduardo Arrabal
Puerto Iguazu,   Argentina
phone: +03757498200
web: http://www.portaldeliguazu.com/eng
  Room amenities: Disability accessible rooms. Air conditioned rooms and LCD 32 inch TV by cable. WiFi internet access. Mini Bar and Room Service. Laundry service. Dressing gowns in all categories. Safety deposit box. Carpet and natural wooden floors. Bathtubs
  Facility amenities: Business Centre with wireless internet access and a reading room Outdoor lap swimming pool and solarium. Indoor heated lap pool. Spa View details Gymnasium. La Misión Restaurant. View details Regional Lobby Bar. Tango thematic Bar. Meetings and events rooms.View details Outdoor BBQ close to the pool. View details Tennis court and football pitch. Free Wi-Fi access in all rooms. IDD/ NDD. Smoking areas. Playroom. Playground, Wii and PlayStation. Vegetable garden and nursery. Transfers.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 MV Voyager
Type: Cruise Ship
  Description: Voyager, built by Spanish yard Union Navale le LeVante, is a spacious and well-appointed vessel offering 278 cabins, 86% of which are outside, 35 suites, 30 of which have balconies, open seating dining in three restaurants and the personal service and comfort levels that have been the hallmark of our cruises since 2003. Carrying just 550 passengers, Voyager has all the amenities and facilities of a larger liner while offering the convenience and flexibility of a small ship. She is able to visit and berth alongside where others have to pass by, yet is able to traverse the world's oceans with ease. On board, passengers will be able to relax in the comfortable public lounges, enjoy a drink in atmospheric Harry's Bar, in the sunshine on deck, at the Lido Bar. Alternatively, read a book in the well-stocked library.
  Ship Information: Owner / Operator: All Leisure Group Year Built: 1990 Builder: Union Navale de LeVante, Spain Former Names: Crown Monarch, Walrus, Jules Verne, Alexander von Humboldt Gross Tonnage: 15,271 Length: 152.5 meters (500.2 ft) Beam: 20.6 meters (67.6 ft) Passengers: 550 Crew: 215 Service Speed: 18.0 knots
  Contact info: Voyages of Discovery - North America
1800 S E 10th Avenue, Suite 205
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 USA
phone: 866-623-2689
web: www.voyagesofdiscovery.com
  Facility amenities: Three restaurants with option for open dining Al-fresco dining (Veranda) Third restaurant within Discovery Restaurant (Explorer Grill) Two lounges - Atlantic Lounge and Vista Lounge Four bars (Vista Lounge, Harry's Bar, Pacific Lounge, Lido Bar) Card/Function room Medical Centre Internet Centre Two Shops Swimming pool Two whirlpools Beauty Centre Gym
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
This program begins on the afternoon of Day 2 in Iguazu Falls, Brazil. You will be staying at Iguassu Resort that night.
  End of Program:
This program ends in the morning in Recife, Brazil. You will be staying at MV Voyager the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. **IMPORTANT: REGISTERING FOR YOUR CRUISE ONLINE** Voyages of Discovery requires all guests to provide full passport details, including address and telephone number. They also require next of kin contact information in case of an emergency. This information must be received no later than 60 days prior to departure. Passengers must visit the website at www.voyagesofdiscovery.com - click on “Already Booked” then “Required Passenger Information” to enter your details. Furnished data will be provided to foreign government immigration officials and is required for on-board administration. PLEASE NOTE: Your cruise documents will not be issued prior to your online registration, and embarkation onto the ship may be denied. If you need assistance registering online, please contact our program department at 1.866.359.5966 and someone will assist you.
  Required innoculations:
Yes: A YELLOW FEVER VACCINE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS CRUISE. The CDC recommends that you are up-to-date with routine shots such as, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) vaccine, poliovirus vaccine, etc. Please visit the Center for Disease Control's website for more information: www.cdc.gov/travel
  Parking availability:
Driving is not recommended.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Iguazu Falls
  Nearest airport:  Foz do Iguaçu International Airport
  Transportation to site: The Iguassu Resort in Foz do Iguazu, Brazil is located approximately 7 km from Cataratas Airport (IGU). Taxis are available at the airport for participants who are traveling independently.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Aboard the MV Voyager
  Transportation from site: All participants will be required to disembark the ship on the morning of March 12. The port is located 13 km from the Recife Port, and transfers will take approximately 30 minutes. Participants who are transferring independently should inquire with the Reception Desk to arrange a taxi. All independent travelers are welcome to join the group transfer, if it coincides with your flight times.


Required innoculations:

Yes: A YELLOW FEVER VACCINE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS CRUISE. The CDC recommends that you are up-to-date with routine shots such as, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) vaccine, poliovirus vaccine, etc. Please visit the Center for Disease Control's website for more information: www.cdc.gov/travel
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: Departures
(Friday, February 22)
   
 Depart From: Flights depart the US

Day 2: Arrivals / Iguazu Falls
(Saturday, February 23)
   
 Arrive To: Flights arrive in Iguazu Falls, Brazil. Transfer to the hotel.
 Afternoon: Field Trip "The Bird Park": The Bird Park at Iguazu Falls combines eco-tourism and preservation. Walk through a trail in native woods with an opportunity to spot more than 900 tropical birds of 150 species. This uniqe park allows visitors to get in the aviaries and get close to the birds. Among other attractions, there is a butterfly cage, a hummingbird aviary, and a reptile sector.
 Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel
   
Accommodations: Iguassu Resort
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Iguazu Falls
(Sunday, February 24)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Check out of the hotel, and join your guide for an exploration of the Brazilian side of the falls.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restuarant
 Afternoon: Field Trip "The Argentine Falls": This afternoon enjoy a guided visit to the Argentine side of the falls. Following this up close view of the falls, check into the hotel for 1 night.
 Dinner: At the hotel
   
Accommodations: Hotel Amerian Portal del Iguazu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Iguazu Falls / Fly to Buenos Aires / Embark Ship
(Monday, February 25)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Continue to explore the Argentinian side of the falls at Devil's Throat. The train brings you to the entrance of Devil's Throat as well as the upper and lower trails. The Paseo Garganta del Diablo is a 1-km long trail (0.6mi) that brings the visitor directly over the falls of the Devil's Throat, the highest and deepest of the falls.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant
 Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for flights back to Buenos Aires. Embark the MV Voyager.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Buenos Aires, Argentina
(Tuesday, February 26)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: Field Trip "Introduction to Buenos Aires": Get acquainted with Buenos Aires via the city’s major neighborhoods and attractions. Points of interest include the Main Square “Plaza de Mayo” surrounded by the “Casa Rosada” (Presidential Headquarters Office), the “Cabildo” (Colonial Town Hall) and the Cathedral. Drive through the charming streets of San Telmo and down the colorful roads of La Boca, famous for its multicolor tin houses. Later, go through elegant Barrio Norte on the way to the Recoleta Cemetery, an amazing aboveground cemetery lined with mausoleums and statues. Finally, visit Palermo and its magnificent mansions and parks.
 Lunch: Lunch on own to sample the cuisine of Buenos Aires
 Afternoon: Afternoon at leisure to explore on your own
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: Montevideo, Uruguay
(Wednesday, February 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Field Trip "Discover Montevideo": Get an overrview of Montevideo's monuments, parks and gardens. See the Old City, Constitution Square, Colonial Town Hall, Solis Theatre, and Independence Square at the center of which stands a monument dedicated to national hero, Jose Gervasio Artigas and his Mausoleum. Drive along the main commercial street, 18 de Julio Avenue, lined with shops, cafe and office buildings. Stop in front of the Congress Building: This immense building is the pride of Uruguay. It was constructed between 1908 and 1925 with local marble of 52 colors and 12 types of wood. Visit one of the oldest parks in the city which hosts the famous sculpture La Diligencia (The Stage Coach), Monument to the last Charrua Indians. Then stop at Plaza Virgilio, with a monument dedicated to the Fallen Soldiers of the Navy.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: Afternoon is free to explore Montevideo
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: At Sea
(Thursday, February 28)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Lecture #1: "The Age of Colonization and Imperialism". Join your study leader for a lecture titled: "Colonialism: Concept and Reality". Put colonialism in a global frame as well as examining the concepts that contributed to that emergence.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: The afternoon is free to explore the ship's amenities and activities
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: At Sea
(Friday, March 1)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Lecture #2: "Portuguese Colonialism: the Molding of Brazil". The Portuguese approach to colonialism is unique and produces a colony which is distinctly different than other European colonies in the Western Hemisphere.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: The afternoon is free to explore the ship's amenities and activities
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Santos, Brazil (Sao Paulo)
(Saturday, March 2)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Field Trip “Discover Sao Paulo”: This full day field trip provides the opportunity to see the most interesting parts of this dynamic city. Sao Paulo is the pulse of Brazil and nothing happens in the country that doesn't begin here. This city is Brazil’s industrial center for trade and commercialism. As Paulista are fond of saying "Sao Paolo works so the rest of Brazil can play". Departing the port at Santos, leave the coastal area for Sao Paulo. The city is located on a plateau, 2,200 feet above sea level, which is reached by crossing the Serra do Mar mountain pass. After reaching the plateau, enjoy traveling through a major industrial area before seeing some of the city's highlights such as the Ipiranga Monument erected in commemoration of Brazil’s independence, and the Pinacoteca of the state of Sao Paolo, a place dedicated to works of Brazilian art from the 19th to the 21st centuries. The Pinacoteca is a well-preserved architectural monument from the beginning of the 20th century. Classical marble columns can be seen mingled among modern brick walls. Today, the museum houses 4,000 works of Brazilian art, with emphasis in artists from Sao Paolo such as as Candido Portinari, Anita Malfatti, Victor Brecheret, Tarsila do Amaral and Di Cavalcanti. Next, enjoy a sightseeing drive through downtown Sao Paolo where you will see historic sites like the Municipal Theater, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. You will also see the Patio do Colegio where Sao Paolo was initially founded by Jesuits in 1554.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant
 Afternoon: Continue your field trip: After lunch, continue your field trip with a drive through Sao Paulo's main thoroughfare, Paulista Avenue, located in the enormous Ibirapuera Park. Architect Oscar Neimeyer and landscape artist Roberto Burle Marx designed it for the city's fourth centenary in 1954. The park features such attractions as the Pioneer's Monument, the Obelisk and the Legislative Assembly building. From here, return to Santos and reboard the ship.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Ilhabela, Brazil
(Sunday, March 3)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Field Trip "Schooner Cruise to Jabaquara Beach": Step aboard a comfortable schooner and sail along the Canal de Sao Sebastiao towards the north part of the island. Along the way enjoy wonderful views of Ilhabela's beautiful beaches against the island's rugged, moutainous interior carpeted with lush rainforest. Jabaquara Beach has been virtually untouched by the hands of tourism and retains all of its pristine beauty. Enjoy time at leisure to stroll on the soft sand, swim in the blue waters or simply relax and soak up the view.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: The afternoon is free to explore Ilhabela
 Dinner: Dinner onboard
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Paraty, Brazil
(Monday, March 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Field Trip "Historical and Cultural Paraty": Paraty is a colonial town with original 18th century architecture and style. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so designated because it represents one of the world's most important examples of colonial architecture. The entire city also enjoys the status of National Monument. Explore with your guide on foot, strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets. You will appreciate the decorated walls of the old houses, and the history imparted by your guide. Visit the important landmarks such as churches, museums, the Culture Center and old houses, as well as a variety of artist workshops and galleries.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: Continue exploring Paraty in the afternoon
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Tuesday, March 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Field Trip “The Secrets of Old Rio and Sugar Loaf”: Depart from the ship after breakfast to visit the most famous landmarks of the Rio de Janeiro, and to witness the natural beauty of the city from the top of Corcovado. After a scenic drive along Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, arrive at the bottom of Corcovado. Embark on a comfortable train that ascends the mountain, where the statue of Christ the Redeemer is located 2,300 feet above sea level. The Christ statue was recently elected one of the “7 New Wonders of the World". Upon arrival at the top of Corcovado, you may use the panoramic elevators or escalators to arrive at the foot of the statue. At the feet of the famous statue of Christ, enjoy a panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro and discover why it is called the "Marvelous City".
 Lunch: Lunch at Confeitaria Colombo, one of the most famous delis in Rio
 Afternoon: Continue your field trip: Continue on a unique walking tour revolving around the legends and stories woven around the narrow streets and old historical buildings of downtown Rio. Visit several of Rio's points of interest such as the Sao Bento Monastary, Candelaria Church, Praca XV, the "Travessa do Mercado", Imperial Palace ('Paco Imperial'), the cultural center located in the beautifully restored Banco do Brasil, the Casa Franca-Brasil, Ouvidor Street and Goncalves Dias Street with the Traditional Colombo Coffee Shop. The walk continues on down Uruguaiana Street, Carioca Square, and up to the Metropolitan Cathedral.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
(Wednesday, March 6)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Free day in Rio de Janeiro to explore on your own
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship, or have lunch on your own at a local restaurant
 Afternoon: Free day in Rio de Janeiro to explore on your own
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14: At Sea
(Thursday, March 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Lecture #3: "Spanish Colonialism: Religion and State". Spanish colonialism cannot be pulled away from the integral role of the church which played a key role in its formation and execution.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: Free afternoon to enjoy the ship's amenities and activities
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: At Sea
(Friday, March 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Lecture #4: "The African Diaspora: Religion and Culture". Salvador de Bahia, where you will call tomorrow, is the center of Condomble which was developed by Yoruba from what is today Nigeria.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: Free afternoon to enjoy the ship's amenities and activities
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
(Saturday, March 9)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Field Trip "Historical Salvador": From the ship, drive to Farol da Barra, one of Salvador's most famous landmarks at the entrance of All Saint's Bay. After a short photo stop, drive through the residential suburbs of Barra, Vitoria and Campo Grande on the way to to the Municipal Square, offering tremendous views of the bay and lower city. The square is a gateway to Salvador's historical quarter, the famed Pelourinho. Stroll to the Sao Francisco church whos opulent interior features cedar woodcarvings covered in gold leaf: the finest example of Baroque church interior architecture in Latin America. Continue through the historical quarter on narrow cobblestone streets lined with colonial townhouses painted in pastel shades as you head toward the heart of the old town: Largo do Pelourinho.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: Free afternoon to relax on board the ship or continue to explore Salvador on your own
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: At Sea
(Sunday, March 10)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship
 Morning: Lecture #5: "Imperialism: The European Centuries" In the 18th and 19th centuries the European states conquered almost the entire globe. Though the "colonies" established by that imperialism moved to independence in the latter part of the 20th century the European impact remains strong.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship
 Afternoon: Lecture #6: "The Contemporary Western Hemisphere: Competition and Coorperation". As the colonies of the Caribbean, Central and South America became independent nations their colonial experiences were manifested in different ways.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Recife, Brazil
(Monday, March 11)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard
 Morning: Field Trip: "Recife Velho (Old Recife) & Olinda": Divided by rivers and bathed by the ocean, Recife is the city of the waters. Here the new coexists with the old, with important examples of both Portuguese and Dutch Colonial architecture alongside the buildings of the modern metropolis. Travel through the streets of Old Recife heading downtown to the Praca de Republica (Republic Square). Stop to take photos of important sites such as the imposing Governors Palace, the Justice Hall, St. Isabel Theatre, and a Baoba from the time of slavery. From here, you'll pay a visit to the Golden Chapel. Built between 1696 and 1724, it's the expression of the Baroque sacred art. The chapel represents one of the most beautiful sets of Portuguese carvings in Brazil. The entire lining is covered with paintings framed with sophisticated golden leaf carvings and outlined with jacaranda wood grating. Proceed to Casa da Cultura, a former prison converted into a handicraft market, where the cells now serve as shops that display the best artisan crafts. Paste-colored stucco houses and meticulously restored Baroque churches line the shady streets of your next destination - Olinda. Perched on the hills located north of Recife, the town of Olinda is a quaint UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting impressive scenic views and dozens of century-old churches amid Colonial houses. From Carmo Square, you'll explore the narrow winding streets of this historical center that lead to the Alto da Se, found on the crest of the town's highest hill. Enjoy a short stroll to visit local artisans at work, then head over to the Cathedral of the Se. The churchyard affords some amazing panoramic views of Olinda and adjoining Recife.
 Lunch: Lunch in Olinda
 Afternoon: Return to the ship after lunch
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Departure
(Tuesday, March 12)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast onboard
 Morning: Depart for the U.S. to go home.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
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


Argentina, A Traveler's Literary Companion


Author: Jill Gibian (Editor)


Description: These choice stories introduce the landscapes and culture of Argentina, from the Andes to the Pampas, through the eyes of its writers.



Birds of Northern South America, Vol. 2: Field Guide


Author: Robin Restall, Clemencia Rodner, Roger Williams


Description: This comprehensive field guide, featuring an astounding 6400 paintings and 2308 maps, covers all the birds from Ecuador to Guiana.



Bossa Nova, The Story of the Brazilian Music That Seduced the World


Author: Ruy Castro


Description: Journalist Ruy Castro interviewed everyone who had anything to do with Boss Nova for this animated history, capturing not only the personalities of pioneers like Antonio Carlos Jobim and Joao Gilberto but also the spirit of Rio de Janeiro in the 1960s.



Brazil Map


Author: Borch Maps


Description: A handy folded, laminated map.



Brazil on the Rise, The Story of a Country Transformed


Author: Larry Rohter


Description: Former New York Times bureau chief in Rio de Janeiro, Rohter explores the history, economy, culture and contradictions of Brazil, delivering an insightful portrait of this increasingly powerful -- and endlessly fascinating -- country.



Brazil, A Traveler's Literary Companion


Author: Alexis Levitin (Editor)


Description: The latest in the excellent series, the diverse stories in this enticing anthology edited by Alexis Levitin introduce Brazil and a host of contemporary writers, including not just Jorge Amado, Machado de Assis and other greats but also newcomers.



Buenos Aires, A Cultural History


Author: Jason Wilson, Alberto Manguel (Introduction)


Description: This well-referenced book offers a look into the geographical history of the city and goes in hand nicely with a more traditional guidebook. The city's underlying themes are laid out: Jorge Luis Borges, Julio Cortazar and the European literary tradition; tango, the longing and despair of the music and its roots; the cult of Evita Peron; European-influenced architecture and cafe life; totalitarian politics; and the nearly religious importance of soccer.



Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands


Author: Jorge Amado


Description: The best known novel by Brazil's much loved author. Amado spins a satiric tale of a young cooking teacher in Salvador, Bahia, who is haunted by her first husband, a philandering ne'er do well who dropped dead at carnival.



Field Guide Birds of Brazil


Author: Ber Van Perlo


Description: This comprehensive field guide features 187 beautiful full-color plates with 1796 species accounts, including a distribution map for each.



Forgotten Continent


Author: Michael Reid


Description: Economist editor Reid draws on his years in the cities, presidential palaces and shantytowns of Central and South America in this portrait of a region rich in oil, farmland and culture, and its prospects in the face of globalization.



Insight Guide South America


Author: Insight Guides


Description: This profusely illustrated, comprehensive guide features hundreds of color photographs, excellent maps and insightful essays on history, art, architecture and attractions.



Modern Latin America


Author: Thomas E. Skidmore, Peter Smith


Description: A succinct history of 20th-century Latin America that examines the politics, economy and people of Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Peru, Mexico, Cuba, Central America and the Caribbean.



Rio de Janeiro Map


Author: National Geographic


Description: With an index, inset maps and points of interest.



Samba


Author: Alma Guillermoprieto


Description: A memorable account of life and music on the coast of Brazil by the talented and wide-ranging Guillermoprieto. A dancer herself, she lived for a year in Manguiera, a favela near Rio known for its samba school. Nominated for a National Book Award.



The Accidental President of Brazil, A Memoir


Author: Bill Clinton (Introduction), Fernando Henrique Cardoso


Description: Brazil's former president, in office from 1995-2002, offers a candid, wry, illuminating view of the gloriously ungovernable, irrepressibly attractive country in this vibrant memoir.



The Brazilians


Author: Joseph Page


Description: A clear, comprehensive and compelling introduction to Brazil, covering politics, history, economics, ecology, conservation and culture.



Time Out Buenos Aires


Author: Time Out


Description: A practical guide to the city and surroundings (including recommended excursions), jam-packed with detailed listings of hotels, bars and restaurants, shops and services.



Tropical Nature


Author: Adrian Forsyth, Ken Miyata


Description: A lucid portrait of the tropics as seen by two uncommonly observant and thoughtful field biologists. Its 17 marvelous essays introduce the habitats, ecology, plants and animals of the Central and South American rainforest.





You can't find a better value than Road Scholar.


As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing all-inclusive educational programs at great value. From lectures to gratuities to field trips to accommodations - the tuition you pay up front is all that you pay.



Specifically, this program includes:

Plus these special experiences...

View the Daily Schedule to see more

And included with all Road Scholar programs:


© Road Scholar 2013 | Call toll-free: 1-800-454-5768