Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans
from $9022
Duration: 14 Days
This fourteen-day Atlanta to New Orleans tour takes you deep into the heart of America’s past for an indepth look at how it shaped today's movement for human rights. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of famous cities where you’ll dig deeper to learn more about the mansions of Savannah, land which once housed vast cotton plantations, the refined elegance of Charleston and the toe-tapping tunes of Nashville, the heartland of country and western music. If you want to do more than just see the sights, this immersive historic tour is calling your name.
  • Wander the historic streets of Savannah trying the local food on a walking tour which blends the city’s history with some of its most delicious eats.
  • Learn about Charleston's rich and complex past with a local storyteller and guide and uncover the ‘lost stories’ of Charleston's rich history.
  • Take a guided tour of Bonaventure Cemetery where you'll hear stories of the fascinating people interred here among the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss.
  • Earn your place in the Country Music Hall of Fame as you take part in a recording session with a professional sound engineer at the iconic Studio B in Nashville.
  • Get to know the real New Orleans during a walking tour that celebrates the city’s jazz music heritage
  • It doesn’t get much better than Southern food – learn how to cook a classic New Orleans Cajun feast for a true taste of Louisiana.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, the Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance. Donations help them create inclusive and equitable opportunities for Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses.
  • Atlanta - Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site
  • Atlanta - Atlanta History Centre – Curated private tour
  • Savannah - Bonaventure Cemetery tour
  • Savannah – Walking Food tour
  • Charleston – Black History walking tour with a local guide
  • Asheville - Leader-led walking tour
  • Nashville – Leader led walking tour
  • Nashville - Distillery Tours & Tennessee Hot Chicken Dinner
  • Nashville- Leader-led orientation tour
  • Nashville - Country Music Hall of Fame
  • Nashville - Studio B tour with recording session
  • Memphis - Stax Museum of American Soul Music
  • Memphis - Graceland, The Home of Elvis Presley
  • Memphis - National Civil Rights Museum
  • New Orleans - Jazz Music Tour
  • New Orleans - Cooking Class
  • Day 1 Location: Atlanta
    Welcome to Georgia! Your adventure begins in Atlanta with a 6 pm welcome meeting at your hotel, where you’ll meet your local leader and get an overview of the next couple of days. If you arrive early, maybe explore Atlanta on foot – this city is known for its thriving hip-hop scene and prominent role in Civil Rights history, so there’s lots to explore.
    Day 2 Location: Atlanta
    After breakfast this morning, it’s time to immerse yourself in 33 acres of historic houses, gardens and award-winning exhibitions with a specialist guide at the Atlanta History Center. Here, you’ll explore the past like never before. The center is part of a global network of historic sites and museums that connect past struggles to today’s movements for human rights. Then, you’ll head to the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site, where you’ll learn more about where Martin Luther King was born, where he lived and worked, and his legacy as a leader. Tonight, hit up your leader for some good local restaurants for dinner.
    Day 3 Location: Savannah
    Mornin' sunshine! Hit the road bright and early to make the journey to Savannah this morning. In 1946, Lady Astor referred to Savannah as 'a beautiful lady with a dirty face' in reference to the crumbling, faded majesty of the city's 18th and 19th-century mansions. Due to plenty of restoration work, Savannah's face may no longer be dirty, but she's still a city of contradictions with hidden delights. When you arrive, you’ll join an expert guide for a tour of Bonaventure Cemetery, widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful cemeteries. Take in its Southern gothic glory as you learn more about this famous spot that has inspired everyone from poets to nature lovers and filmmakers. After, you might like to check out Savannah’s antebellum mansions, towering oak trees and colonial buildings on a stroll around town. In the evening, maybe head out on a ghost tour of old Savannah or seek out spirits of a different kind at one of the city’s many lively bars.
    Day 4 Location: Savannah
    Take it easy this morning before meeting up at 11 am for a three-hour walking tour that blends the city’s history with some of its best and most delicious eats. This fascinating food tour visits spots like a not-so-ordinary pub, an award-winning honey store and a traditional British pie shop highlighting dishes consumed by some of Savannah’s earliest settlers. This afternoon is all yours, so make the most of it!
    Day 5 Location: Charleston
    Leave Savannah in the rear-view mirror and drive to Charleston. When you arrive, you might like to grab some lunch before joining a Black History walking tour with an expert guide who’s an educator, historian and writer. Discover the ‘lost stories’ of Charleston's rich history as you stroll around town and immerse yourself in its complex past. The afternoon is yours to explore Charleston at your own pace. Perhaps book a food tour to discover more flavors of the South.
    Day 6 Location: Asheville
    Bid farewell to Charleston after breakfast this morning and drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains to the charming town of Asheville. Home to the country’s best breweries and some of North Carolina’s finest barbecue, Asheville also boasts an incredible folk music scene. Arriving in the mid-afternoon, you’ll join your leader for a guided walking tour of the downtown area, packed with galleries and artist studios. After, you may wish to visit the Biltmore House and Gardens, an opulent Gilded Age mansion famous for being America's largest home. Tonight, maybe check out one of the town's boutique brew houses or join your group for a good ol’ fashioned BBQ dinner at Buxton Hall – a popular local hangout.
    Day 7 Location: Nashville
    This morning you’ll take a scenic drive to Nashville – the country music capital. When you arrive, you’ll be introduced to this famous toe-tapping town during an orientation walk with your leader. In the late afternoon, come together again with your group to taste world-famous Tennessee whiskeys and moonshine on a distillery tour, followed by a true-blue Nashville hot chicken dinner. This Tennessee twist on fried chicken originated right here in Nashville during the Great Depression and has been a local favourite ever since. Order it extra spicy for a real kick – don't worry, you can turn down the heat if you're not feeling the burn.
    Day 8 Location: Nashville
    Today you're free as a bird to explore Nashville. You may like to check out the Nashville murals, visit the much-loved Goo Goo candy store, or swing by the Johnny Cash Museum. Tonight, there's a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining the next stage of your itinerary. After, head out on a leader-led walking tour of the city and then join your group for an optional welcome dinner.
    Day 9 Location: Nashville
    This morning after breakfast, dive straight into the city’s history with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame. This fabulous piano-shaped building is a work of art and contains Elvis’ gold Cadillac (among other impressive memorabilia). Then, cruise across town to Studio B, where Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Roy Orbison and ‘The King’ Elvis Presley have all laid tracks – today, you’ll even be joining this prestigious list! Meet with a professional sound engineer for your own recording session and find out what it takes to create the Nashville sound. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city – you may like to check out the Nashville murals, visit the much-loved Goo Goo candy store, or swing by the Johnny Cash Museum.
    Day 10 Location: Memphis
    Hit the road this morning and make tracks for Memphis – a city overflowing with musical history and legends. Your first stop is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Here at the original location of Stax Records in downtown Memphis, you'll learn the story of the Memphis sound where stars like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes got their starts. You'll even have a chance to cut a rug on their dance floor as you listen to Stax tracks. The rest of the day is yours to discover the sights and sounds of Memphis. No visit to this city would be complete without checking out Beale Street, lined with traditional blues clubs – you can ask your leader where the locals hang out tonight so you can avoid the tourist hotspots.
    Day 11 Location: Memphis
    After breakfast this morning, you’ll head to the National Civil Rights Museum at the former Lorraine Motel – where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated – for a dose of history that is both confronting and inspirational. Then you'll visit Memphis’s most iconic site – Graceland! Elvis’s former home and final resting place, a visit to Graceland is like stepping back into the 1970s, with a glamourous and kitschy twist. Explore a fascinating world of green shag-carpet ceilings and yellow vinyl walls while getting a sneak peek into the glitzy side of the Deep South.
    Day 12 Location: New Orleans
    Today you’ll be road-tripping from Memphis to New Orleans, arriving in the afternoon. Jazz is not just a part of the city’s history – it’s alive and kicking! When you arrive, join a local expert for a Black Heritage & Jazz tour to explore sites like Congo Sqaure, known as the birthplace of jazz, Louis Armstrong Park, and the Treme neighbourhood with time for shopping on Bayou Street. The evening is yours to explore further – your leader will have some great recommendations on where to grab a bite to eat and listen to more live music.
    Day 13 Location: New Orleans
    This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a free day to explore New Orleans at your own pace. Then later this afternoon, you’re in for a real treat – not only famed for its music scene, the food in New Orleans is some of the best in the country, and today you’ll learn about Creole and Cajun cuisine at a local cooking school. Find out how to create one of the region’s most beloved dishes with a demonstration, then get hands-on and try it yourself. Tuck into the finished product for dinner with your group. This evening, why not check out a jazz club on Frenchman Street or join the party on Bourbon Street?
    Day 14 Location: New Orleans
    This morning after breakfast, your trip comes to an end. If you’d like, you can book an optional jazz brunch at The Court of Two Sisters – a gorgeous outdoor courtyard dining area where you can enjoy some delicious brunch specialities while live jazz plays –a great way to end your music trail! If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.
    Dates
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    Departure Date:
    04APR2024
    Return Date:
    17APR2024
    10325NZD
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    02MAY2024
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    10820NZD
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    10830NZD
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    10830NZD
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    10830NZD
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    Departure Date:
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    16OCT2024
    10740NZD
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    Last modified (date)

    07 Feb 2024

    Trip title

    Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans

    Trip code

    SSKYC

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Jan 2024 to 31 Dec 2024

    Introduction

    This fourteen-day Atlanta to New Orleans tour takes you deep into the heart of America’s past for an indepth look at how it shaped today's movement for human rights. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of famous cities where you’ll dig deeper to learn more about the mansions of Savannah, land which once housed vast cotton plantations, the refined elegance of Charleston and the toe-tapping tunes of Nashville, the heartland of country and western music. If you want to do more than just see the sights, this immersive historic tour is calling your name.

    Style

    Comfort

    Themes

    Explorer

    Transport

    Private vehicle

    Physical Rating

    1

    Joining point

    Hyatt Place Atlanta Downtown

    330 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta. Georgia, United States.

    Atlanta

    30308

    UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    Phone: +1 4045771980

    Finish point

    Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel

    920 N Rampart Street

    New Orleans

    New Orleans

    70116-3011

    UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

    Phone: +1 (504)5243333

    Finish point description

    New Orleans, Louisiana is a mecca of great food, culture, music and history. Our French Quarter location is the main reason many guests choose us, but we offer more than an unbeatable location. Our tropical courtyard features an outdoor swimming pool, the perfect place to cool down after a day of adventure or Mardi Gras festivities. A free hot breakfast is our staple, and it includes waffles, fresh fruits and pastries, choice cereals and yogurts, along with 100% Arabica coffee and juices.

    Finish point instructions

    Taxi: A cab ride costs approximately US$40.00 from the airport to the hotel. There may be an additional charge for extra baggage. Shuttle service is available from the airport to hotels and various other locations in the New Orleans for $30.00 (per person, one-way) or $56.00 (per person, round-trip). These fares include three (3) bags per person. Additional baggage may be subject to additional fees. Passengers can purchase tickets at the Airport at the Airport Shuttle ticket booth located on Level 1 Baggage Claim between Doors 3 and 4.

    Important information

    1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1. Please make your own way to the Joining Point Hotel listed in the Essential Trip Information for this itinerary. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

    Group leader

    All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip. NORTH AMERICAN LEADERS Our leaders in the US and Canada are also responsible for driving the van and navigating across the country. The allowable driving times for drivers is strictly controlled in North America. This ensures our drivers are well rested and are not over-tired from too many hours on the roads. It's strictly forbidden for non-qualified rangers to present any information about some National Parks in North America, therefore we adopt a system (as requested by the park rangers) where our leader will encourage travellers to visit the information centres in the National Parks for details about the site.

    Safety

    Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

    Visas

    PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

    Why we love it

    Wander the historic streets of Savannah trying the local food on a walking tour which blends the city’s history with some of its most delicious eats.

    Learn about Charleston's rich and complex past with a local storyteller and guide and uncover the ‘lost stories’ of Charleston's rich history.

    Take a guided tour of Bonaventure Cemetery where you'll hear stories of the fascinating people interred here among the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss.

    Earn your place in the Country Music Hall of Fame as you take part in a recording session with a professional sound engineer at the iconic Studio B in Nashville.

    Get to know the real New Orleans during a walking tour that celebrates the city’s jazz music heritage

    It doesn’t get much better than Southern food – learn how to cook a classic New Orleans Cajun feast for a true taste of Louisiana.

    By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, the Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance. Donations help them create inclusive and equitable opportunities for Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses.

    Is this trip right for you

    The South gets mighty steamy in the summertime. Pack appropriately, drink plenty of water and you might even grow to love it. September through to November is hurricane season, so if you’re travelling over this period you should pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes. You're in the Deep South of the USA, so expect a lot of (delicious) fried food and barbecue. Vegetarians may have fewer options, as a lot of southern cuisine is meat-based.

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.  PERSONAL MEDICATION Medical prescriptions written outside of the US and Canada aren't accepted at local pharmacies. We recommend you bring along your personal medications in the necessary quantities for your trip. DEHYDRATION & SUN PROTECTION The most likely medical incidents to occur on our trips are dehydration, over exposure to the sun and twisted ankles from walking on uneven ground. While hiking please ensure you drink enough water to remain hydrated as some hikes don't have refill stations for your water bottles. The sun (especially in desert areas in the West) can be harsh, particularly in the warmer months. Ensure you apply adequate sunscreen and wear a hat.

    Food and dietary requirements

    While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.

    Money matters

    SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. The most convenient way to access money is via ATMs, which are plentiful throughout North America. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. Most optional activities can be paid for with credit card. TIPPING Tipping is part of the culture in North America – while it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of many industries including the tourism industry, in North America. YOUR LEADER You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline US$10-20 per person per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. Tipping is always appreciated. LOCAL GUIDES During your trip you may have a local expert guide for an included activity. As a guideline we suggest $5-$10 per person per local expert as a tip. TIPPING WHILE OUT AND ABOUT Restaurants: We suggest 18% to 22% of your bill. Bars: We suggest US$1 per drink. A charge that isn’t normally listed in North American menus or pricing are the state and federal taxes. Keep this in mind when your bill comes out slightly higher than the original price listed. CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

    What to take

    All luggage is carried in trailers or inside the vehicle so please don't bring more than one medium sized bag, backpack or suitcase (20kg/44lb maximum) per person. Your suitcase/rucksack may get some rough handling, so make sure it's a tough one. A small daypack with your water bottle and camera may be carried with you inside the vehicle. ESSENTIAL:  Reusable water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. Tap water in the USA and Canada is safe to drink and there are many places to fill up along the way, so please save plastic by bringing your own water bottle.  Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, sunglasses  Lightweight, breathable clothing you can layer. No matter the season, you should be prepared for changing temperatures and weather conditions. Make sure to have a warm outer layer even in summer months as well as a waterproof jacket.  Closed-in walking/hiking shoes. We highly recommend that you take a pair of comfortable, closed-in/closed-toe walking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings from dangerous animals in this environment.  Personal travel documents which may include a passport, visa, driver's license, travel insurance, flight tickets and your Essential Trip Information. Photocopies of these documents stored separately from the originals will be handy. While not valid, a photocopy of your identification makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. RECOMMENDED:  Cell phone, camera with spare batteries, charger, and power/plug adaptor (Types A & B are used in the USA and Canada. Voltage is 120V)  Insect repellent (insects are present intermittently all over the USA and Canada depending on recent rainfall.)  A cotton bandana or scarf. Can be wetted and worn around the neck to facilitate evaporative cooling in high temperatures, used as sun protection, or used to protect your neck and head from cold/rain.  Swimwear  Comfortable sandals/Recovery shoes. To put on after a day of hiking or during a long ride in the van.  Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhoeal, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, bandaids/plasters etc. OPTIONAL:  Travel pillow if you like to sleep during long drives  Lip balm and extra moisturizer if traveling to arid desert areas.  Ear plugs to guard against a snoring roommate  A good book, a journal or headphones to listen to music with. WINTER: If you are travelling on one of our winter trips in North America be prepared for temperatures to drop to well below zero (Celsius). We recommend you bring shoes for walking across snow or ice (good waterproof walking boots with a good grip), a warm wind and waterproof jacket and trousers, gloves or mittens, thermals and base layers, fleece, good head wear and sunglasses. If you need some further tips for packing, you can always check out our ultimate packing list here:

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    Climate and seasonal

    WEATHER IN NORTH AMERICA Due to the size and topography of the US and Canada, there's a huge amount of variation in the climate. We recommend you consider both the season and the part of North America you intend to visit, so that you can best pack for your adventure. We recommend you check the weather in your destination 10 days prior to your arrival to help guide your packing choices. SOUTHEAST USA The Southeastern USA generally experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a significant amount of rainfall. Summer (June to August): Temperature: Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C) and high humidity levels. Heatwaves are common, so it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Rainfall: Thunderstorms are frequent during the summer months, and rainfall can be heavy. Be prepared for sudden downpours and the possibility of flash floods. Fall (September to November): Temperature: Fall brings milder temperatures, with highs ranging from the 60s to 80s°F (15-30°C). Humidity levels generally decrease, making it a more comfortable time to visit. Hurricane Season: The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 with its peak from September to October. While not every part of the southeastern USA is directly affected by hurricanes, it's essential to be aware of weather updates during this period. Winter (December to February): Temperature: Winters are relatively mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s°F (4-20°C). However, cold snaps can occur, particularly in northern parts of the region. Occasional Frost: Some areas may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures, especially in inland and northern locations. Spring (March to May): Temperature: Spring brings warmer temperatures, with highs ranging from the 60s to 80s°F (15-30°C). It's a popular time for outdoor activities and festivals. Pollen: Pollen levels can be high during spring, causing allergies for some individuals. Consider this if you have allergies. USA NATIONAL HOLIDAYS The following national holidays are observed in the US, which can affect our itinerary as traffic can be extreme, and shops, restaurants and attractions can be closed: New Year's Day (01 January) Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday of January) Washington's Birthday (third Monday of February) Memorial Day (last Monday of May) Independence Day (4 July) Labor Day (first Monday in September) Columbus Day (second Monday of October) Veterans Day (11 November) Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday of November) Christmas Day (25 December)

    A couple of rules

    We like to think our Intrepid travellers are all connected by a love of adventure and passion for seeing the world in a different way. We've laid down a few non-negotiable rules to ensure everyone feels connected, comfortable and safe on our trips. We ask that you respect your fellow travellers, group leader or local representative, and local people and places we visit in all circumstances. We don't tolerate any forms of violence and expect that you follow the local laws, customs and regulations in any destination we travel to. Any behaviour contrary to the above, including any behaviour that prevents our staff from performing their duty of care or continuing the itinerary as planned, may result in travellers being removed from the trip. If you consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect you to abide by local alcohol laws. To ensure the well-being of everyone on the trip, all decisions made by group leaders or local representatives and ground staff are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. By travelling with us, you agree to comply with these rules and the laws and customs of all countries visited. If something is concerning you during your travels with us, please speak to your group leader or local representative immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in your Essential Trip Information’s Problems and Emergency Contact section. LEGAL DRINKING AGE In the US the legal drinking age is 21. In Canada the legal drinking age is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec, and 19 in the remaining provinces and territories. Our leaders are not able to help underage customers buy alcohol.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    POLICE AND AMBULANCE In case of an emergency, local authorities can be contacted by calling 911 – this is the toll free phone number for the police, fire department and the ambulance in the USA and Canada. In case of doubt, call the operator on 0. While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/ In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: Intrepid local operator : Available for phone call on +001 435 767 0002

    Responsible travel

    Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

    The Intrepid Foundation

    We created our not-for-profit, the Intrepid Foundation because you – our travellers – told us you wanted to make an even greater impact in the communities you visit. The Foundation works by teaming up with partners around the world so that together we can deliver greater positive impact at scale. Partners are identified by our local staff who live and work in our destinations. They harness their powerful community connections to determine the issues that matter most and select local partners who can deliver real solutions. Since 2002, the Intrepid Foundation has raised more than $14million dollars and supported more than 160 communities worldwide. Now, with over 40 partners all over the world, your donations are helping to restore forests in Kenya, empower women in Honduras and promote elephant welfare in Laos, to name just a few. For more information about the Intrepid Foundation, please ask your group leader or local representative or visit our website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip supports Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA), which creates inclusive, equitable opportunities for small Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses. Donations help CHEA provide access to industry-specific technical assistance, capacity building, and industry networks for small travel and tourism businesses through its Diversity Tourism Academy (DTA). Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/chea

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

    Transport notes

    NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES Our large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van. The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible. While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

    Your fellow travellers

    As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. We also have an optional single supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will be on a single room basis. On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

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