European Wonders
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Day1- Frankfurt Welcome to your 'Merair Travel & Tours Pvt.ltd' tour. Your Merair Travel & Tours representative greets you at the 'meeting point' at the exit after immigration and customs and transfers you comfortably to your hotel (check in after 1400 hrs). Drive to Heidelberg, situated in the Valley of the River Neckar and world famous for its romantic castle and picturesque Old Town with awe-inspiring surroundings. Enjoy some free time at the 'Altstadt' - old section of the town - wander around the winding alleys steeped in history or stroll through the pedestrians Haupstrasse (high street), the main shopping avenue in Heidelberg. |
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Day2 -Onto Innsbruck | Drive Through The Black Forest | Visit Drubba | Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds | Visit Innsbruck Today time stands still at Drubba, the alpine nest of the Cuckoo Clock situated in the unique Hollëntal (Hell's Valley), directly at the mouth of the Ravennaschult (Ravenna Glen). Witness a demonstration to explain the making of authentic cuckoo clocks in their original form, each piece carefully crafted for precision ! The Cuckoo Clock is said to have originated between 1740 and 1750 and has remained more or less unchanged in its unique design. A visit here is always a memorable experience. While in Drubba take time off to enjoy the crisp Black Forest air and the chirping of mountain birds. Get a souvenir, .yes with compliments of Drubba and Merair Travel & Tours. Later drive to Austria. Halt at the internationally renowned Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, and prepare to be dazzled at the 'Chambers of Wonder' !In a wondrous blue hall dominated by a Unicum - a wall of crystal, you see the world's biggest crystal and it's smallest ! Over 7 million people from all corners of the globe, have already been thrilled by the Swarovski experience - now you are one of them ! Enjoy a scenic drive to Innsbruck. Located on the Inn River, Innsbruck is one of Europe's most beautiful and lively cities. An international centre for winter sports, it has hosted the Winter Olympics twice ! Our orientation tour introduces you to its world famous sights. View the Golden Roof or 'Goldenes Dachl', an ornate Gothic balcony erected by the Emperor Maximilian I in the 15th century, decorated with gold painted copper shingles, the Imperial Church followed by the 'Hofburg' or Imperial Palace. This Capital of the Alps, has a history of 800 years ! Check into your hotel and enjoy a continental dinner after which you can disco the night away in celebration of over 250 years of Merair Travels with cold drinks, wine and beer. (B, L, D) |
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Day3-Onto Venice | Walking City Tour Of Venice Today your journey takes you on a fascinating drive past quaint villages, medieval castles and fruit orchards, cutting across the fertile Adriatic Plains, to the magical lagoon city of Venice. The captivating canals and palaces of Venice are simply unique ! Built on 117 small islands, it is a pedestrian's city, so get set for a walking tour. Cruise from Tronchetto Pier and glide romantically past fairytale palaces Disembark and walk to the Piazza San Marco (St. Marks Square). Pass the Doge's Palace, connected by the 'Bridge of Sighs' to its prisons. It was from here that the legendary lover Casanova made his famous escape ! Witness the bronze Moors striking the hour, as they have been doing for the past 500 years ! End this exciting tour with a brief visit to a Murano Glass Factory where you will see a demonstration of hand blown world famous Venetian glass. Enjoyment at its peak this evening. Celebrate Merair Travel & Tours serving you for more than 250 years with a scrumptious dinner and a surprise gift per family as you enjoy a tranquil cruise to Tronchetto Pier. (B, L, D) |
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Day4-Onto Umbria | Walking Tour Of Florence | Orientation Tour Of Pisa Drive across the Apennine Mountains, along the Brenta River past Bologna, to beautiful Florence, a shrine to the wonders of the Renaissance, with more artistic treasures per square metre than any other city in the world ! Included in your walking tour of the city of Florence is a visit to the remarkable Duomo (when open for visitors). Besides it is the 'Gates of Paradise' - the heavenly gilded bronze doors of the Baptistry, originally a pagan temple and the open-air gallery in Signoria Square. Walk on the famous Ponte Vecchio, the oldest surviving bridge in the city. Time permitting indulge yourself with some more famous works of art - genuine Florentine leather bags and souvenirs! Happy shopping! Continue to Pisa, the hometown of Galileo and a city, which makes the most of its claim to fame - its Leaning Tower ! It has leaned almost since construction first started, due to the swampy soil beneath it. At a photo stop here, note its striking beauty along with its characteristic tilt. It is the Duomo's (Cathedral) Bell Tower. Together with the Baptistry, these are all a part of the Field of Miracles. After an exciting tour, drive through a stretch of olive groves and vineyards to your hotel where on arrival you will be checked into your hotel. (B, L, D) |
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Day5-Full Day Excursion To Rome | Visit the Time Elevator | Visit The Vatican | Guided Panoramic City Tour Of Rome 'Rome was not built in a day'- the truth of this oft quoted adage hits you with full force, as we pack in all the 'must see' agenda into our guided panoramic city tour! According to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus in 753 BC. Start your introduction to Rome with a journey on the Time Elevator and enjoy a 4 dimensional view of Roman Glory. Then onto The Vatican, the smallest nation in the world ! The most famous square of The Vatican is St. Peter's Square with St. Peter's Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Gaze in awe at Michelangelo's Pieta. See the triumphal Arch of Constantine, one of the most important commemorative monuments of antiquity and then drive through Piazza Venezia, where the grandiose monument to the reunification of Italy is often referred to as the Marble wedding cake ! Pass the Circus Maximus - the Hippodrome - known for its ancient chariot races, which was reconstructed by Hollywood for the well known movie 'Ben Hur' ! Tribute is paid to the brave Gladiators of Rome, as you pass the mighty Colosseum. At this amphitheatre, the notorious and glory gladiatorial games were held, where they fought one another and wild animals while the crowd roared ! Pass the ruins of the Roman Forum and end the tour at the famous Trevi Fountain. Legend has it, that if you make a wish and toss a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain, you are sure to return to Rome ! We at Merair Travel & Tours look forward to that! After an exciting tour relax and enjoy your drive to the hotel. (B, L, D) |
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Day6-Onto the Mont Blanc In Chamonix After breakfast enjoy a comfortable drive of approximately 6 hrs. to Chamonix. Today, its 'Love at first sight' as you enter the beautiful Chamonix Valley and the majestic mountains of the Mont Blanc. Whilst all the Hindi movies have launched the Swiss Alps, Merair Travel & Tours is the first to introduce the French Alps to India and the home of Mont Blanc, famous for its pens and accessories. Check into your hotel and after dinner visit the casino on your own. Try your winning streak. Good Luck ! Raise a toast to your tour with Merair Travel & Tours and Chamonix Mont Blanc. (B, L, D) |
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Day7-Onto Switzerland | Cable Car Ride To Aiguille Du Midi | A Visit To The Mer De Glace | Visit Geneva Awaken to the spectacular delights of the glacier around you. A view of the facing peaks and of Mont-Blanc, awaits you as you enjoy breakfast. Enjoy a free morning. Walk past picturesque hamlets and along alpine lakes, the spectacular scenery and surroundings. Stroll along the valley paths. Relax and feast your eyes on the wonderful views. Don't miss our excursion tour - a ride on the highest and most impressive cable car, the Aiguille du Midi (weather permitting), which lifts you to 3842 meters for an unforgettable view of the Alps. The Aiguille du Midi has its own postage stamp and a letterbox ! Continue your excursion with a ride on the nostalgic red cog railway to Montenvers. The train climbs a steep track, through scenic Alpine scenery, to a stunning vantage point above the 'Mer de Glace' (sea of ice) Glacier. You know you've really arrived when you stand at 1913 meters, at the 'Mer de Glace', which is 7 kms long and 200 meters thick, with a surface dimension of 40 kms ! A crystal gallery, a wildlife exhibition, an ice garden and the famous ice grotto 100 meters long, carved each year into the heart of the glacier, awaits you ! Drive to Geneva, one of Switzerland's most privileged cities, said to have the second highest quality of living in the world ! We begin the orientation tour with a drive to the Palais des Nations - the European Headquarters of the United Nations and the Ariana Musee Ariana. Be awestruck by the great white plume of the world's tallest fountain in Europe - the magnificent Jet d'Eau and pause for a photograph here and at the beautiful floral clock in the Jardin Anglais ! Then continue on a spectacular journey and experience the natural beauty and wonders of the alpine region and check into your hotel. (B, L, D) |
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Day8-Visit to Glacier 3000 and Visit to Lucerne The day is free to visit the famous pedestrian zone with its shops and typical chalet style houses and the Glacier 3000 Awaits ! Drive towards Gstaad / Les Diablerets - the skiing capital and a favourite playground for the rich and famous. Here Merair Travel & Tours gives you another first with the launch of Glacier 3000 - the everlasting snow mountain, offering views of the most beautiful summits of the Alps, and the scene of the popular Indian film 'Bachna Ae Haseeno'. Ascent is by cable car from Col du Pillon (1546 m) to Scex Rouge (2971m). Enjoy a special adrenaline kick with a wild ride on the Alpine Coaster (weather permitting), the world's highest bobsleigh track. You can cruise along at approximately 40 km/hour and with the brakes you determine at what speed you want to travel. The 1 km track offers lots of variety. The ultimate highlight is the 520-degree loop, followed by 10 curves, 6 waves, 3 jumps and 2 bridges. The track lies up to 6 m above the ground and the 2-minute downhill ride gives you the ultimate driving experience. The beauty of nature can also be discovered. The View Point (stairs) located directly behind the Restaurant Botta 3000 has a 360-degree panoramic view that includes some of the most beautiful alpine peaks - from the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau to the Matterhorn - and views onto over 24 peaks that are over 4000 m high. Here is a tribute to Merair Travel & Tours serving you for over 250 years. Enjoy a hot buffet lunch and a souvenir for each family. Later ride the Snow Bus over the glacier - a unique experience of a comfortable ride on the eternal snow. Return by cable car to Col du Pillion. Drive to Lucerne with its picturesque mountains, lakes, cowbells, alpine villages and meadows full of edelweiss. Pause at the poignant Lion Monument, built to commemorate the brave Swiss soldiers killed during the French Revolution. Stroll along the covered, wooden Kappellbrucke (chapel bridge), to the ornate Jesuit Church. You will have an encounter with the marvels of Swiss shopping. Most visitors take home two things - memories of a beautiful country and a Swiss watch. Next to a virtually unlimited selection of watches and jewelry, every store carries a vast array of small famous brand gifts and souvenirs, priced for every pocket. Later drive on to the Swiss region of Lungern, where an exclusive Gala evening is lined up for you. A mountain in Switzerland that's all yours ! We make sure that ultimate fantasy comes true with Mt. Merair Travel & Tours - a Swiss Mountain in the Lungern - Schonbuel belt, so exclusive, that it's only for you ! Getting there is half the fun ! Wind your way uphill in a cable car, with a panoramic 360 degree view of the Bernese Oberland. If viewing nature is not enough, there are walking trails and chocolate casting. That's not all ! A sumptuous Gala Dinner and Disco Dancing ! Yes, with Merair Travel & Tours you're constantly on a high ! Later return to your hotel. (B, L, D) |
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Day9-Visit To The Trümmelbach Falls | Excursion To The Jungfraujoch The day is free for you to enjoy on your own or you can take advantage of our optional excursion to the Jungfraujoch, the 'Top of Europe', a wonderful world of glaciers and eternal ice. Stop at the Trummelbach Falls, another highlight from Merair Travel & Tours. This is the only glacier waterfall in Europe, cascading through the mountain. Your journey today takes you to the highest altitude railway station in Europe by a charming, red cogwheel train, through the most dramatic mountain scenery ! Walk on the great Aletsch Glacier, at 22 kms - the longest ice stream in the Alps, visit the glistening Ice Palace, and the Sphinx Observation Terrace, at 3571 m, the loftiest point of all, the Alpine view is simply stunning. What could be more tempting in this icy cold scenario, than a hot Indian lunch ! Descend to Interlaken, cradled cozily between the beautiful Lakes of Brienz and Thun, where even today you see horsedrawn carriages. You will have another encounter with the marvels of Swiss shopping. Indulge in some souvenir shopping. Swiss watches, chocolates and other accessories are world famous. Return to your hotel (B, D) |
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Day10-Onto Paris | Optional Gala Evening In Paris After breakfast you enjoy a comfortable drive of approximately 6 hrs. to Paris. Later this evening, don't miss our optional Merair Travel & Tours Gala Evening and experience the joie de vivre of 'Gaie Paris'. This enchanted evening unfolds with a cruise on the River Seine, sailing under old and beautiful bridges, admiring illuminated monuments as you glide by. True bliss ! Sparkle over a glass of champagne and an Indian dinner at the Lido. Here at the most famous nightclub in the world, enjoy the 'Bonheur Show', a cabaret with extraordinary sets and extravagant costumes. Take away a small remembrance of your visit. We stretch the night for you with an Illumination Tour, driving past spectacularly lit landmarks of Paris. It's magic ! Return to your hotel. (B, L) |
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Day11- In Paris | Visit the Louvre | Shop At Fragonard | Visit Grevin Wax Museum | Visit Montparnasse | City Tour Of Paris | Visit the Eiffel Tower Visit the famous Louvre Museum formerly the palace of the Kings of France which now houses one of the world's greatest art collections. The collection of ancient art includes 'The Victory of Samothrace' and 'Venus of Milo'. Paintings include masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci - 'Mona Lisa' among others. Visit and shop at Fragonard - The Parfumeur an highlight from Merair Travel & Tours. Displayed are perfumery collections retracing 3000 years of history. Discover Fragonard's original perfumery creations on sale at factory prices. A special exclusive souvenir for each visitor from Fragonard and Merair Travel & Tours. Our next stop is the famed Grevin Wax Museum, an exclusive from Merair Travel & Tours ! Grevin, a legendary site of entertainment since 1882, was created by Alfred Grevin, to produce and showcase life size wax models of celebrities. At the end of the 19th Century, Arthur Meyer, founder of the famous daily newspaper "Le Gaulois", conceived the notion of showing his readers the people in the headlines of his paper, but in 3-D. At a time when the press did not use photographs, he came up with the idea of creating a site where the public could see people in the news. To implement this original plan, he called on Alfred Grevin, who was a cartoonist, designer and famous sculptor. The Grevin opened its doors on June 5th, 1882. It was an immediate success. At Grevin, relive glorious French history, meet celebrities and experience the Spirit of Paris, with over 300 wax figures in a setting of gold and marble ! The latest addition is our very own 'Shah Rukh Khan'. Commemorate your visit to Grevin with a small memento. Later today, another exclusive the Montparnasse Tower - the roof of Paris, at a height of 210 metres above Paris. Discover a view of Paris with the crowning glory of the Eiffel Tower. Far above the hustle and bustle of the Montparnasse square, you can stand on the very roof of the capital. The enchanting city is spread out before you, swarming and bustling with life. Europe's fastest elevator will take you to a height of 196 meters (over 640 ft) for this magnificient experience. By using the viewpoint indicators, you can locate and see each of the districts and their monuments. Best of all get a memento to commemorate your visit! Enjoy a guided panoramic city tour of famous monuments like the Louvre with the Glass Pyramid, Garnier's Opera, the largest opera theatre in the world, the Place de la Concorde - the site of the infamous guillotine, the Champs Elysees - one of the most fashionable streets in the world, River Seine, the Napoleanic Arc de Triomphe and the Hotel des Invalides. End the day taking in the dazzling overview of the glittering city as you ascend by an elevator to the 3rd level of the Eiffel Tower the symbol of Paris! Later after dinner you will return to your hotel. (B, L,D) |
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Day12- On to Belgium | Excursion to Parc Asterix | Orientation Of Brussels We recommend you unleash the child in you and enjoy our highly recommended, fun-filled exclusive excursion to Parc Asterix. This is one more first from Merair Trave & Tours! 7 adventure areas, 27 attractions and 6 shows set your heart racing and keep you entertained. Ride the 80 kmph Tonnerre de Zeus - Europe's highest wooden roller coaster; the Goudrix, the Oxygenarium, the Transdemonium, the Menhir Express, a log flume ride with a 13 metre drop and the Grand Splatch - a rapid river ride to keep the adrenaline flowing. The focus is just fun, fun, fun, fun. Later drive to Brussels - the Elegant Capital City of Belgium, for an orientation tour of Brussels, which takes you through picturesque medival streets to the magnificent Gothic St. Michel's Cathedral. Walk via Galeries Saint Hubert the world's first shopping mall, opened in 1847, to the Grand Place, Europe's most beautiful square. This exquisite market square is the main attraction of the city. Time permitting, shop here for world famous Belgian lace and chocolate and Belgian Waffles dusted with caramelized sugar. Mmmm ! No visit is complete without seeing the Mannekin Pis - this cheeky statue of a little boy, represents the "irreverent spirit" of Brussels (photo stop). After dinner check into your hotel. (B, D). |
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Day13- Full Day Excursion To Amsterdam | Visit Keukenhof / Madurodam | Overnight ferry to Harwich Your full day excursion begins with a drive through Dutch countryside, to Amsterdam, where Windmills still wield their magic. There's a photo stop at one - note how the sails turn counter-clockwise. Clogs and Holland are inseparable and a factory visit demonstrates this traditional business. The canals beckon as you board a glass topped boat and glide past regal mansions, houseboats and bridges. A canal cruise in Amsterdam is a rewarding experience. Spend some free time at Dam Square with the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), the Royal Palace and the War Memorial. If you come to Holland when tulips are in bloom (only from March 18th to May 16th) visit the famous Keukenhof Tulip Gardens. The rest of the year visit Madurodam, the enchanting miniature city. Later drive to the Hook of Holland to board your luxurious overnight cruise ferry to Harwich in the U.K. Traveling in a ferry across the North Sea is sheer indulgence! A delightful way to travel, from the moment you drive or walk onto the ferry, wave goodbye to the mainland and arrive at your destination port, you will travel in a first class environment. Onboard, relax and savour the wide selection of international cuisine, shop at a fine selection of retailers, enjoy the bracing sea air and the lifestyle of an ocean voyage. Treat yourself to a worldclass maritime experience, sailing in total comfort, soaking in the ambience. There's a night of non-stop fun and entertainment ahead. (B, L, D on board the ferry). |
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Day14- Onto the United Kingdom | Guided City Tour Of London | Optional London Delights Tour Today arrive into the United Kingdom and drive to London. Live history through a guided panoramic highlight tour of London city. Get acquainted with some of London's iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge, River Thames, London Eye, Tower of London, Hyde Park, Big Ben, Westminster Palace, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral, the famous Piccadilly Circus, Nelson's Column at Trafalgar Square followed by the majesty of Buckingham Palace which is the Queen's official residence. End your tour at Oxford Street after which the rest of the day is free, to pursue for your quest for great bargains or sample our Optional London Delights Tour where you travel back in time with a visit to the Tower of London, a historic landmark where much royal blood was spilled ! The aptly named Bloody Tower and Traitor's Gate still fascinate. The main attraction is the Jewel house, housing the incredible Crown Jewels including the Koh-i-noor diamond ! Then you have a date with over 400 celebrities at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the world's largest exhibition of life like wax models. Take photographs with some Indian celebrities. Later, ride the London Eye, the world's first tallest Ferris wheel and during the gradual 30-minute flight, see views of London. The entire group will reunite in the evening and return to your hotel. (B) |
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Day15- in London A leisurely breakfast today after which you enjoy the entire day to pursue your own activities.) |
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Day16- Onto Dublin | Visit Stratford Upon - Avon | Fast ferry to Dublin Today drive to Holyhead. Make a brief stop at Stratford Upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare. Continue your drive and check in for your fast ferry to Dublin. Check into your hotel (B, D) |
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Day17- Excursion to Powerscourt | Visit Guinness Storehouse Today travel South to County Wicklow, also known as the Garden of Ireland. It is home to Powerscourt, Mount Usher and Russborough, to name a few of its many houses and gardens. This region features all the various types of scenery that makes Ireland so beautiful. The coastline is bordered by charming sea resorts such as Bray or Greystones. In the heart of its gentle and rounded hills are nestled Enniskerry and Avoca, both very picturesque villages. Discover its romantic and quiet beauty, the deserted mounts where nothing but heather grows, the small forests and the lush prairies illuminated by yellow gorse in spring. Powerscourt is one of the most beautiful estates in Ireland. Situated in the mountains of Wicklow it was originally an important strategic site for the Anglo-Normans who came to Ireland in the late 12th century. By the year 1300 a castle had been built and was in the possession of the le Paor family. The succeeding centuries saw the castle change hands many times. In 1603 Powerscourt castle and lands were granted to Richard Wingfield. His descendants were to remain in Powerscourt for over 350 years. Powerscourt was much altered in the 18th century, when the famous German born architect Richard Castle remodeled the castle and grounds. It involved the creation of a magnificent mansion in the Palladian style around the shell of the earlier castle. The house was burnt down in 1974 but fortunately the plans of the house were saved and reconstruction started. The entrance hall features an exhibition describing the history of Powerscourt, while shops, a terrace cafe and other visitor facilities are also located here. Powerscourt Gardens are a magnificent example of aristocratic gardens from the 19th century. The gardens were initiated around 1745 and restyled in the 19th century. The gardens have many features including the Triton pool with its 100-ft fountain. There are statues of winged horses (emblems of the Wingfield coat of arms) flanking a grotto by the pool. To the left are American and Italian gardens, while below them is a Japanese garden. The Bamberg Gates to the walled garden are believed to come from a German Cathedral in Bamberg in Bavaria. There are many rare plants and wonderful views of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain. Visit the Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe's largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904 The Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing GUINNESS. Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. You will discover what goes into the making a pint of GUINNESS - the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion. The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and sold in over 150 countries. Enjoy a high tea courtesy Tourism Ireland and Merair Travel & Tours.Return to your hotel. |
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Day18- Onto Manchester | City tour of Dublin | Visit Manchester This morning the "Fair City" of Dublin waits to be discovered. Your panoramic guided tour of Dublin City, first discovers the north side of the River Liffey. This area offers great striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on the city main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, or the Custom House along the quays, as well as the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe. The south side appears much more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares, such as Merrion Square, where Oscar Wilde's House can still be found (today owned by an American College), its colourful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops. Not so far from St. Stephen's Green, in Kildare St., you will see the house of Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. This part of the city is also dominated by the students of Trinity College (visit), where the famous book of Kells is permanently exhibited in its library. The university is facing the medieval district where the Dublin Castle and the two Anglican Cathedrals can be found. This afternoon your return ferry will take you to Holyhead. Drive to Manchester and enjoy an evening discovering Manchester, once at the heart of the industrial revolution and known for its cotton trade, now a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, well know for one of the world's most popular football clubs, Manchester United. Discover old Victorian architecture like the Town Hall, and award-winning modern structures like the iconic Imperial War Museum North. The city is divided into unique districts each with its own personality. The city has some wonderful shopping. Manchester Arndale, Market Street for high street favourites, King Street for designer labels or the Northern Quarter for unique and independent designs. Manchester's bohemian district is home to independent restaurants and bars, perfect for a relaxed night out. Try out the different bars with continental beers, relaxed atmosphere, cocktails, pool tables, quirky and live jazz music. Dance the night away at Mint Lounge, Moho or at many of the bars which open until the early hours. The vibrant art and nightlife is yours to enjoy on your own. |
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Day19- Return Home With Happy Memories Good times need never end ! Get ready for the airport and your flight back home, relive the high points of your 'Merari Travel & Tours' European Splendours' tour. We are confident you will join us sometime soon… (B either in the hotel or on board the flight) |
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