Road Scholar : Home
Voyage of Discovery: From the Taj Mahal to the Pyramids

Program Number: 21087RJ
Start and End Dates:
3/16/2014 - 4/11/2014;
Duration: 26 nights
Location: India/Oman/Eritrea/Egypt
Price starting at: $4,596.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Ocean Cruises
Meals: 71; 24 Breakfasts, 23 Lunches, 24 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Learn about the treasures of India, the Arabian Peninsula and Egypt on this voyage that holds one incredible discovery after another.




Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day; some stairs and uneven and hilly terrain.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

New Delhi (India), 2 nights; Agra, 1 night; Jaipur, 2 nights; aboard Voyager, 16 nights; Luxor (Egypt), 2 nights; Cairo, 2 nights.



Day 1: Overnight flight from the U.S.A.


Days 2-3: Arrival New Delhi (India):

Discover India’s capital city and visit the house where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life. Lodging: Five-star hotel.



Days 4-6: Coach to Agra / coach to Jaipur:

Stand in awe of the Taj Mahal as the morning sun illuminates its marble domes. Explore imposing Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar with its enormous astrological instruments. Lodging: Four-star hotels.



Days 7-8: Flight to Mumbai / embark Voyager:

An expert-led excursion includes the Gateway of India and the beautiful Prince of Wales Museum.



Day 9: Porbandar:

Go ashore for a field trip to Kirti Mandir, the home where Gandhi was born, now a memorial temple.



Days 10-12: At Sea / Muscat (Oman):

Spend one and a half days experiencing Muscat. Learn about the traditions of the Sultanate of Oman at the Bait al Zubair Museum. Step inside the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.



Day 13: Sur:

Learn about the building of dhows (traditional sailboats) in this Gulf of Oman port city.



Days 14-15: At Sea / Salalah:

Explore the mountainous region of Dhofar and learn about the “frankincense route” of ancient times.



Days 16-19: At Sea / Massawa (Eritrea):

Discover this strategically vital Red Sea port that has been controlled by the Ottoman Empire, Egypt and Italy through history.



Days 20-22: At Sea / Safaga (Egypt):

Enter the desert and explore a Bedouin village including having lunch with a Bedouin family.



Days 23-24: Disembark / coach to Luxor:

Led by an Egyptologist, walk among the temples of Karnak and visit the Valley of the Kings, where for 500 years the Pharaohs were entombed. Lodging: Four-star hotel.



Days 25-27: Flight to Cairo / departure:

Continue to examine treasures of Ancient Egypt: the Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza, the Stepped Pyramid of Djoser and the amazing artifacts at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Lodging: Four-star hotel with pyramid views.



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
   Suryaa New Delhi
  Delhi, India 2 nights
   Trident Hotel Agra
  Agra, India 1 night
   Trident Hotel Jaipur
  Jaipur, India 2 nights
   MV Voyager
  Aboard the MV Voyager, USA 16 nights
   Winter Palace Pavilion
  Luxor, Egypt 2 nights
   Mercure Le Sphinx Cairo
  Cairo, Egypt 2 nights
 Suryaa New Delhi
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: The Suryaa New Delhi is a 5 Star Deluxe Hotel located in the heart of New Delhi, a mere 35 minute drive from the International Airport & adjacent to Delhi's business districts - Nehru Place, Pragati Maidan-International Trade Fair venue, Okhla & Noida Export Promotion Zone.
  Contact info: New Friends Colony
New Delhi,  110 025 India
phone: +911126835070
web: www.thesuryaanewdelhi.com/
  Room amenities: Satellite TV, CD Player, DVD Player, In-Room Movies, Coffee Maker, Mini-Refrigerator, Mini Bar, Wi-Fi Internet, Phone with Voicemail, Bathrobe, Hairdryer, Bathtub, In-Room Safe, Air Conditioning & Iron/Ironing Board
  Facility amenities: Laundry/Dry Cleaning, Multi-lingual Staff, Administrative Services, Concierge Services, Barber/Hair Stylist, Business Center, Currency Exchange, Fax, Gift Shop, Room Service, Health Club, Indoor Pool, Health Spa/Massage, Outdoor Pool, Hot Tub, ATM & Safe Deposit Box
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: n/a Please contact Road Scholar Travel Services for more information.

 Trident Hotel Agra
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: The Trident, Agra, set amidst beautiful gardens, fountains, landscaped central courtyards, is built of red stone reminiscent of the Mughal era. The Hotel is literally, a stone's throw away from one of the new 7 Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal.
  Contact info: Fatehabad Rd.
Agra,  282 001 India
phone: +91 562 223 5000
web: www.tridenthotels.com/agra/index.asp
  Room amenities: Central A/C, Internet Access, Direct Dial Telephone, Tea & Coffee Maker, 24 hr. Room Service, Satellite TV, Electronic Safe, Hairdryer, Voltage 110-220
  Facility amenities: Bar, Restaurant, Coffee Shop, Fitness Center, Swimming Pool, Jogging Track, Business Center, Currency Exchange, Laundry Service
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Trident Hotel Jaipur
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Situated near the renowned Amber Fort and overlooking the Mansagar Lake. The rose coloured facade of the hotel is reminiscent of traditional Rajasthani architecture.
  Contact info: Amber Fort Road
Opposite Jal Mahal
Jaipur,  302 002 India
phone: +91 141 267 0101
web: www.tridenthotels.com/jaipur/index.asp
  Room amenities: Central A/C, Internet Access, Dual Line Telephones, Tea & Coffee Maker, 24 Hr. Room Service, Electronic Safe, Hairdryer, Voltage 110-220
  Facility amenities: Bar, Restaurant, Fitness Center, Swimming Pool, Business Center, Currency Exchange, Laundry Service
  Smoking allowed: No
  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

 Winter Palace Pavilion
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Contact info: Corniche el Nile street
Luxor,   Egypt
phone: (+20)95/2380425
  Room amenities: All modern room ameneties are available
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Mercure Le Sphinx Cairo
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Mercure Le Sphinx Cairo combines an exciting location & good service This hotel offers its guests a unique opportunity to explore the historical surroundings in total comfort & convenience. Located in a magnificent park at the foot of the Giza Pyramids & the Sphinx, 35 km from Cairo international airport.
  Contact info: 1 Alexandria Desert Rd.
P.O. Box 16 Pyramids
Giza,  12556 Egypt
phone: + 20 233 776 444
web: www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-1789-mercure-cairo-le-sphinx/index.shtml
  Room amenities: A/C, Satellite TV, direct dial phone, minibar, safe, broadband internet connection, hairdryer,
  Facility amenities: Concierge, dry cleaning service, currency exchange, gift shop, fitness center, jacuzzi, massage, outdoor heated pool, sauna, restaurants, 24 hour room service, bar.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Available upon request Please contact Road Scholar Travel Services for rates and reservations.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
This program begins in the late afternoon on Day 2 in Delhi at the program hotel. You will be staying at Suryaa New Delhi that night.
  End of Program:
This program ends on Day 28 in the early morning at the program hotel in Cairo. Flights usually depart Cairo in the very early morning. You will be staying at Mercure Le Sphinx Cairo 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.
  Parking availability:
We do not recommend driving to the site.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Delhi
  Transportation to site: All participants who arranged their air travel through Road Scholar will be transferred from Delhi Airport to the program hotel. If you did not purchase your air through Road Scholar, you may join the designated group transfer as long as your flight arrives before or at the same time as the group flight. The designated group transfer time will be sent with your final program materials, approximately 5 weeks prior to the start of your program.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Cairo
  Transportation from site: All participants who arranged their air travel through Road Scholar will be transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the program. If you did not purchase your air through Road Scholar, you may join the designated group transfer as long as your flight departs at the same time or after the group flight. The designated group transfer time will be sent with your final program materials, approximately 5 weeks prior to the start of your program.
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 from the US
(Sunday, March 16)
   
 In Transit: Flights depart from various US gateways

Day 2: Flights arrive in New Delhi, India.
(Monday, March 17)
   
 Arrive To: Arrive in New Delhi in the later afternoon and transfer to your program hotel.
 Dinner: Light dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Suryaa New Delhi
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Delhi Old and New
(Tuesday, March 18)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel
 Morning: Start with an orientation with your group leader. Then depart for a discovery of Delhi. Drive past Red Fort, take a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk and end with a visit to the Jama Masjid.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Drive past India Gate and Government Buildings and visit Gandhi Smiriti. At Gandhi Smriti your Group leader gives a talk on “Relevance of Gandhi in today’s world.”
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Suryaa New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Delhi / Drive to Agra / Akbar'sTomb
(Wednesday, March 19)

Note: Drive is approximately 4-5 hours.
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: After breakfast drive to Agra. En route, get an overview of Indian History, by your expert guide.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Continue to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, described as a walled palatial city. The great Mughals Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb lived here. Afterwards, arrive at the hotel and check in.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Taj Mahal / Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb / Agra Fort / Transfer to Jaipur
(Thursday, March 20)

Note: Driving time is approximately 4 hours.
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: After breakfast, set out for an early morning visit to the Taj Mahal. The building is unique due to its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, and medium of construction and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it's dazzling white during the day. Late morning, explore Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, popularly known as the ‘Baby Taj’. Continue with a visit to the Tomb of Itmad Ud Daulah. This beautiful mausoleum was the first one to be built on a riverbank, which was normally used only to build pleasure gardens till then. The marble mausoleum is designed like a silver jewel box with stunning and delicate inlay work.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant. Then transfer to Jaipur.
 Afternoon: Upon arrival check into your hotel. Later in the evening transfer to town to visit the bizaar.
 Dinner: Dinner at a traditional Rajastani family's house with an opportunity to see their family home and learn about traditional Rajastani culture.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Jaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Jaipur / Amber Fort / City Palace / Jantar Mantar
(Friday, March 21)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: This morning depart for Amber Fort. En route, view Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This five storied wonder has a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Amber Fort is an example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. The interiors of the fort have various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work complemented by exquisite wall paintings.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Explore the Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory. It claims the distinction of being the largest stone observatory in the world. The most notable feature of the observatory is that even after so many years it still provides accurate information. The observatory has fourteen statistical instruments, which serve the purpose of measuring time, predicting eclipses and ascertaining other astronomical events. Afterwards, proceed to the City Palace built under the patronage of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and still houses the royal family of Jaipur. Only the ground floor of the City Palace is open for public viewing. The entire palace complex comprises of a number of gardens, courtyards and buildings. The structures inside the palace complex are: Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani's Palace, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Jaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Jaipur / fly to Mumbai / Board ship
(Saturday, March 22)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Morning free for you to explore Jaipur.
 Lunch: On your own.
 Afternoon: Fly to Mumbai and transfer to board the ship.
 Dinner: On board the ship.
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Mumbai Discovery
(Sunday, March 23)

Note: At the Prince of Wales museum there is a fee for cameras and video cameras. Large bags cannot be taken inside. Leather items are not permitted inside the Jain Temple and shoes must be removed before entering (we recommend bringing a pair of socks). The consumption of food and drink is prohibited within the Jain Temple complex. Photography is permitted inside. Admittance to the temples may be denied to those wearing shorts (either sex) and to those whose shoulders are uncovered.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Explore this city highlights. Drive by the “Gateway of India” built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of King George and Queen Mary at the Delhi Durbar held in 1911. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum, has a priceless collection of art, sculpture, china and other antics. Carefully presereved, this mid-Victorian Gothic style building built in 1904 with beautiful gardens surrounding it, is worth visiting in Mumbai. Continue to Mani Bhawan where Gandhiani Bhavan is the old Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a pretty, two-storied structure that now houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo exhibition of the Mahatma's life, and well preserved memorabilia, including an old charkha or spinning wheel that Gandhi used to use.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Free time this afternoon to explore Mumbai on your own before the ship departs.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Porbandar, India
(Monday, March 24)

Note: Admittance to the temples may be denied to those wearing shorts/skirts above the knee and to those whose shoulders are uncovered. As streets are extremely narrow in the city, coaches will park on the main road and you will have to walk to the temples and sites. Shoes must be removed before entering the temples and Kirti Mandir, so you may wish to bring a pair of socks. There are steep narrow flights of steps to climb. Basic toilets are available at Kirti Mandir and at Bharat Mandir.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship.
 Afternoon: Porbandar City Tour: Experience the "Real India" and discover Kirti Mandir, the birthplace and family home of Mahatma Gandhi. You will also visit Sudama Mandir - a temple dedicated to Sudama, friend of Lord Krishna, with idols said to date back 5,000 years. At Bharat Mandirm you can see, housing a relief map of India surrounded by pictures of various places around the country, and carved pillars depicting sagas and scenes from the epics.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Cruising the Arabian Sea
(Tuesday, March 25)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you sail the Arabian Sea.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Muscat, Oman
(Wednesday, March 26)

Note: Notes: Photography is not permitted at the museum. There is a 200-300m walk to view the Sultan's Palace and also to the entrance of the Grand Mosque. Ladies must cover their legs and shoulders and bring a scarf to cover their heads. Men must also keep their legs and shoulders covered.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Experience the highlights of Muscat beginning with a photo stop at the Grand Mosque. Continue to the Bait Al Zubair Museum. It is one of the most informative museums in Oman and focuses mainly on the traditional culture and lifestyle of the people of the Sultanate. From here continue to see the Sultan’s Palace and the 2 forts Jalali and Mirani which guard it. The forts were built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. On the way back we shall pass through the old city of Muscat.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Muscat, Oman
(Thursday, March 27)

Note: Admittance to the Fort may be denied to those wearing shorts (either sex) and to those whose shoulders are uncovered. Toilet facilities at the Fort are limited and basic and are Asian style at the hot springs. There are 135 steps in the fort complex.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Explore the Grand Mosque, the most beautiful architectural piece of work. The Mosque was built over a period of 6 years from 1995 to 2001. The main chandelier is made of pure Swarovski crystal and the carpet adorning the large prayer hall was woven by experts, made out of pure Persian silk. Proceed for photo stop at Royal Opera House Muscat, the leading arts and culture organization in the Sultanate of Oman. Continue on a guided walk through Muttrah Souq a traditional Omani market. The souk offers a wide range of goods, especially typical Omani souvenirs like Frankincense, the Omani Dagger or Khanjar and beautiful silver handicrafts and “Pashmina shawls”.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Your afternoon is free to continue to explore the port, or relax on board the ship.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Sur, Oman
(Friday, March 28)

Note: You will be in 4 wheel drives as you drive across the sand dunes.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Explore Sur Town. Sur is one of the most famous cities in the Gulf of Oman in building wooden ships. Many Dhows (Omani traditional boats) were built in this city and went to China, India, Zanzibar, Iraq and many countries. This will be a unique opportunity for you to witness the making of traditional Dhow by the experienced craftsman.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Cruising the Arabian Sea
(Saturday, March 29)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you cruise the Arabian sea.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Salalah, Oman
(Sunday, March 30)

Note: Admittance to Job's Tomb may be denied to those who are wearing shorts (either sex) and to those whose shoulders are uncovered, ladies may also be required to cover their heads. All visitors are required to remove their shoes when walking around the outside of the tomb, so you may wish to bring a pair of socks. Basic toilets are available at Al Balid and Job's Tomb.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Sights of Salalah: Explore western Dhofar combining scenic drives and visits to the main sites around Salalah. Visit Job's Tomb, a sacred pilgrimage site for Muslims, Christians and Jews. This simple tomb is housed in a small domed building on Jebel Issin. Enjoy the panoramic views over the striking Qata Mountains and Jubriah plain. Closer to Salalah, a visit to the Al Balid Archeological Museum will give an insight to the once thriving frankincense trade and the opportunity to view some of the frankincense trees that give rise to this prosperous trade.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Dhofar Heritage: Enjoy exploring the coastal sites of Eastern Dhofar. Visit Taqa, a fisherman's village with typical white Dhofari style houses and explore the 19th century Fort, overlooking the town. Also visit the ruined site of ancient Sumhuram (Khor Rouri), a once flourishing port at the southern end of the frankincense route. Located on a freshwater creek that once had access to the sea, this evocative site reveals the ruins of a 3rd century BC palace within which lies a temple dedicated to the Moon Goddess. Continue to the domed, white-washed, 12th century mausoleum of Mohammed Bin Ali, a descendent of the Prophet Mohammed, and a fine example of architecture of this era.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Cruising the Arabian Sea
(Monday, March 31)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you sail the Arabian sea.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Crusing the Arabian Sea
(Tuesday, April 1)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you sail the Arabian sea.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: At Sea / Massawa, Eritrea
(Wednesday, April 2)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you sail towards Massawa, Eritrea.
 Dinner: On board the ship
 Evening: Ship arrives in Massawa late this evening
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Massawa, Eritrea
(Thursday, April 3)

Note: Tourism is in its very early stages in Massawa. You will witness the economic and structural problems of the town with many buildings in need of repair. Tourist infrastructure is in its very early stages - transport and the level of guiding are not geared toward western expectations. Nevertheless we hope that you will enjoy this unique opportunity to gain an authentic and revealing insight into the life in this region of the Red Sea.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Massawa City Discovery: Discover the Eritrean port town of Massawa, strategically located on the shores of the Red Sea and the largest deep water port on the Red Sea. The town has, for centuries, attracted the attention of traders and empires, the architecture reflecting periods of Arabic settlement, Ottoman rule, Italian colonization, and Ethiopian rule prior to Independence. Massawa has suffered greatly from earthquakes and further damage was inflicted during fierce fighting in World War II and, more recently, the long Eritrean War of Independence which ended in 1991. The field trip will include a sightseeing drive through the old town near the port where you will see the Arab influence of coral buildings and ornate, decorative doorways. Located on a series of islands, you will also visit Taulud Island where more western and Ottoman architecture can be viewed. Here the main sights are the Old Railway Station, St. Mariam Cathedral, the 1920 Banco d'Italia as well as the formerly magnificent Imperial Palace and the impressive Tank Monument commemorating the end of the War of Independence. You will visit the Regional Museum with exhibits on the Red Sea, Archaeology as well as the Colonial era and Eritrean life. There will also be the opportunity to visit the Rashaida Village. The Rashaida are a nomadic Arabic tribe who inhabit the coastal regions of the area.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Free time to explore the port on your own, or relax on board the ship.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Cruising the Arabian Sea
(Friday, April 4)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you sail the Arabian sea.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 21: Cruising the Red Sea
(Saturday, April 5)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Join your on board lecturer for a presentation on the following topic: TBA.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Relax on board the ship as you sail the Red Sea
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 22: Safaga, Egypt
(Sunday, April 6)
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Take a 4x4 vehicle and take a scenic drive from the port of Safaga to the resort town of Hurghada. The adventure begins by going off road and into the desert until you arrive at one of the many Bedouin villages. Here you will be welcomed by the hospitable nomads a more modern name for the people who reside in one of the most unforgiving terrains. The term Bedouin means “those who live in the desert” or “camel raising tribes” unfortunately due to the economic climate many of the tribes now breed sheep and over the past few years have adopted the past time of breeding white doves. After enjoying a relaxing time interacting with your hosts you will rejoin your vehicle and start the return journey to the pier in Safaga.
 Lunch: On board the ship
 Afternoon: Free time on your own in Safaga.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: MV Voyager
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 23: Safaga, Egypt / Disembark / Coach Transfer to Luxor
(Monday, April 7)

Note: Drive is approximately 3 hours.
   
 Breakfast: On board the ship
 Morning: Disembark the ship and transfer to Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes, the great capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom, and the glorious city of the god Amon-Ra.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Karnak and Luxor temples led by your Egyptologist. The temple of Luxor, known in the Egyptian language as ipet resyt, or “the southern harem”, was built by King Amenhotep III who reigned 1390-53 BC and dedicated it to Amon-Re, king of the gods, his consort Mut, and their son Khons. Although badly ruined, no site in Egypt is more impressive than Karnak. It is the largest temple complex ever built by man, and represents the combined achievement of many generations of ancient builders. The Temple of Karnak is actually three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: Winter Palace Pavilion
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 24: Luxor, Egypt / Tombs
(Tuesday, April 8)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: This morning, explore the sites of the west bank of Luxor. Led by your Egyptologist discover the West bank Valley of the Kings, King Tut Tomb, Hatshepsut and Memnon. Since the end of the eighteenth century, significant archaeological investigation has taken place at the Thebean necropolis. Between the 16th and 11th centuries BCE, a plethora of tombs were constructed for ancient Egypt’s nobility. Recent excavations, under the direction of the Theban Mapping Project, have unearthed additional tombs as well as providing a more meticulous and cautious approach towards excavation.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Presentation - The Opet Festival and the ongoing Restoration Work of Luxor led by a professor from the Luxor University at New Luxor Library.
 Dinner: On board the ship
   
Accommodations: Winter Palace Pavilion
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 25: Luxor / Fly to Cairo
(Wednesday, April 9)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Early morning flight to Cairo. This morning explore the Citadel of Mohamad Ali. The Citadel, lying at the heart of Cairo, etched into the Mokattam hillside, the Citadel was initially constructed by Ayyubid ruler, Salah al-Din between 1176 and 1183 CE. While initially built to resist Crusaders, the citadel now houses several mosques and numerous museums, continue to the Hanging Church and the Ben Izra Synagogue.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Explore the Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. It has 120,000 items, with a representative amount on display, the remainder in storerooms.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Mercure Le Sphinx Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 26: Cairo / The Great Pyramids
(Thursday, April 10)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: This morning, discover the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The three largest pyramids located in the valley consist of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Kafhre and the Pyramid of Menkaura. Each Pyramid is a tomb dedicated to a different king of Egypt. Then descend the plateau to view the Great Sphinx and marvel the presence of the guardian of the necropolis. The Great Sphinx has also been known for a long time under the name “Father of Fear”.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Explore the Step Pyramid Complex of King Djoser (Zoser), which is considered the oldest stone structure on earth, built more than 4700 years ago. It was built for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser by his vizier Imhotep. The Pyramid of Teti is also located in the Necropolis of Saqqara. Its original height was about 52.5 m.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Mercure Le Sphinx Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 27: Cairo / Early Morning Departure
(Friday, April 11)
   
 Depart From: Transfer to the airport in the very early morning for your return flight home
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.


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