Jay Weber's "Trip of a Lifetime" - India
Over a decade ago, I got together with Cruise & Tour with one objective in mind… to see the world with you! And not just any old sites, I wanted us to visit the most interesting and exotic destinations on earth. That’s why I call it a “Trip of a Lifetime.” When we sat down to arrange my 12th “Trip of a Lifetime,” we realized that we had inadvertently been checking off sites on the New 7 Wonders of the World list. The Great Wall of China, check! Petra, check! The Roman Colosseum, Machu Picchu, check, check!
It’s mind-blowing to think that I have had the good fortune to see these amazing places with group after group of WISN listeners. Quite frankly, these are places I wouldn’t have gone to on my own, they are just outside my comfort zone. My 2018 “Trip of a Lifetime” is no exception, and that is what I’ve grown to love about group travel with Cruise & Tour. The sights, the sounds, the tastes… it’s almost like stepping onto an airplane and landing on a new planet. It’s invigorating, and Cruise & Tour makes it easy. Just show up and they’ll show you the world.
In 2018 we’re going to see the Taj Mahal! (check)
That’s right, we’re going to India to see one of the most majestic works of architecture on earth. Described by Poet Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the cheek of eternity,” the Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan as a memorial to his third wife who died giving birth to their 14th son. We’ve all seen photos of it but nothing will compare to seeing it in person during the two most dramatic times of the day — sunrise and sunset.
At the end of the day, we’ll want a comfortable spot to lay our heads and the accommodations Cruise & Tour has secured are nothing short of spectacular. Highlighted by our stays at the 5-Star ITC Rajputana in Jaipur and ITC Mughal in Agra, this is luxury at its finest and service that will make you feel like royalty. Speaking of royalty, the Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge near Ranthambore National Park has played host to many royals through its 80-year existence including Queen Elizabeth II. If it’s good enough for her, it’s good enough for me!
I am so excited to be making this journey and I hope you will join me. For reservations and additional information, call Cruise & Tour at 1 (800) 383-3131. But hurry, space is limited.
Jay WeberPer Person Double Occupancy
$6259
Single Supplement: $1035
(Sold Out – Waitlist)
November 1-11, 2018
11 Days / 10 Nights
Itinerary
Depart USA for India
Gather in Milwaukee where you’ll meet your group leaders and travel to Chicago O’Hare International Airport for your overnight flight to Mumbai, India through New Delhi. (Dinner aloft)
Arrive in Mumbai
Land at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport where your guide meets you with garland. Transfer to the 5-star ITC Grand Central, Mumbai for your overnight stay, enjoying a welcome drink on arrival. Tonight, get to know Jay and your fellow travelers over drinks and a welcome dinner. (D)
Mumbai
The vibrant coastal city of Mumbai (formerly called Bombay) is India’s largest city and its financial, commercial and entertainment capital. It’s the home of Bollywood, the largest film industry in the world. This morning we’ll travel by boat to Elephanta Island in the Arabian Sea, home to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva are believed to have been built between 450 and 750 AD. The most renowned of the caves’ sculptures is Trimurti, a three-headed, 20-foot tall figure of Lord Shiva. Back on the mainland, lunch at a local restaurant introduces you to unique and complex flavors unlike anything else in the world. After lunch, our sightseeing tour begins at the Prince of Wales Museum before a stop at The Gateway of India, the city’s foremost landmark. A drive up to the Hanging Gardens offers panoramic views of the city and Marine Drive. We’ll also visit Victoria Terminus, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Horniman Circle Gardens and the Asiatic Library before dinner. Overnight at the ITC Grand Central. (B, L, D)
Mumbai to Jaipur
After breakfast, venture by plane to Jaipur, the capital of India’s Rajasthan state. You’ll be met at the airport following your short domestic flight and transferred to the 5-star ITC Rajputana hotel where lunch will be served. Relax and enjoy the sights before dinner on a beautiful family-owned farm. Overnight at the ITC Rajputana. (B, L, D)
Jaipur
Today’s journey begins just outside the city at Amer Fort, a Rajput architecture palace built by Raja Mansingh that served as the ancient capital of Kaisshawah rulers. Ascend to the palace on the back of a brightly decorated elephant and navigate its many famous chambers and hallways. Enjoy traditional cuisine at a local restaurant before heading out again for a city tour. You’ll see the unique and magnificent Jantar Mantar, a stone observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728 and Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of the Winds.” Later, discover City Palace, the former royal residence with museums displaying paintings, costumes and other artifacts. Cap off the day with a shopping tour before dinner. Overnight at the ITC Rajputana. (B, L, D)
Jaipur to Ranthambore National Park
This morning embark on a scenic drive to Ranthambore National Park through breathtaking Indian landscape, arriving at the Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge in time for lunch. This 80-year- old former hunting lodge was favored by British royalty and has hosted many illustrious guests including Queen Elizabeth II. In the afternoon, explore Ranthambore’s picturesque forest in search of the elusive king of the jungle, the Bengal tiger. Other native animals you may see include leopards, hyenas, jackals, sloth bears, wild boar, spotted Deer, Sambhar, Chinkara, Nilgai and Languar monkeys flying through the trees above you. Overnight at Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge. (B, L, D)
Ranthambore National Park
You will spend the whole day exploring the beautiful landscape and wildlife of the sanctuary of Ranthambore. Tonight, share photos and stories over cocktails and a scrumptious BBQ dinner. Overnight at Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge. (B, L, D)
Ranthambore to Agra
Today, journey by first class train from Sawai Madhopur to Bharatpur where our coach will meet us to continue our journey on to Agra. On the way you’ll visit what is considered by many to be India’s best mosque, Fatehpur Sikri, an ancient capital built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the Mughal architecture of the sixteenth century. The magnificent red sandstone ruins are the remains of Akbar. You will also see the Palace of Jodha Bai, the Panch Mahal and Bulund Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world. Arrive in the ancient city of Agra in time for lunch, met by gorgeous panoramic views of architectural marvels including the most famous of them all, the Taj Mahal. After check-in and lunch at the luxurious 5-star ITC Mughal hotel, arrive at the Taj Mahal in time for sunset for a once- in-a-lifetime experience of majesty and beauty. Overnight at ITC Mughal. (B, L, D)
Agra
Spend the morning exploring Agra Fort which is considered to be the most beautiful example of 17th century Mughal architecture with its signature high red sandstone walls. Inside you will discover Jahangiri Mahal, the Pearl Mosque and the Khas Mahal, where you will find a breathtaking view of the Yamuna and Taj Mahal from one of its three pavilions. After lunch, take the afternoon to relax as you wish before visiting the local bazaars. Spend the evening witnessing the amazing Mohabbat The Taj show at the famous theater Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Center. Over 80 artists depict the love story of Emperor Shajahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal through creative dance and dramatic lighting. Overnight at ITC Mughal. (B, L, D)
Agra to Delhi
You have the option to visit the Taj Mahal again at sunrise before breakfast to see how different this majestic structure appears in the morning light, then take the morning to relax as you wish. This afternoon, visit a unique gallery where famous embroidery art is on display, along with Indian jewelry creations for authentic souvenirs. Later, relax in your first- class seat aboard India’s fastest train, the Gatimaan Express, back to Delhi and say goodbye to your fellow travelers over a farewell dinner before heading to the airport. (B, L, D)
Homeward Bound
Today fly back to the USA, reflecting on your unforgettable Indian journey.
Inclusions
Included
- International airfare
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Flight from Mumbai to Jaipur
- Two First Class train rides
- Luxury accomodations
- Sightseeing as described in itinerary
- Milwaukee to Chicago transfers
- All meals daily
- Baggage handling
- Modern, air conditioned coach transportation
- Expert English speaking guides
- Tips for all services, drivers and guides
- Q&A session with Jay Weber
- Taxes & fees as of 12/12/17 (subject to change regardless of payment status)
- Complete services of Cruise & Tour
*The tour operator reserves the right to substitute a hotel for similar accommodations should circumstances so require
Not Included
- Visa fees
- Items of a personal nature
- Checked baggage fees (if applicable)
- Increase in taxes & fees after 12/12/17
Testimonials
Accommodations
Rates
DEPOSITS AND PAYMENT: A $750 per person deposit is required with your Reservation Request. A second payment in the amount of $1500 per person is due 210 days before departure (4/5/2018). Final payment is due 125 days before departure (6/29/2018). Your first and second deposits can be paid by credit card, check or cash. Please be advised: FINAL PAYMENT IS PAYABLE BY CHECK OR CASH ONLY.
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS: All deposits and subsequent payments are non-refundable. This policy supersedes any other published cancellation and refund policy. Cancellation must be made in writing to Cruise & Tour. It is understood and agreed that in the event of cancellation, Cruise & Tour reserves the right to process refunds by check payment or with multiple transactions. If flights are purchased other than the designated group flights, separate airline penalties apply. If any other arrangements outside of the group package have been made, penalties may apply and are not the responsibility of Cruise & Tour. For cancellations and refunds within the covered terms of the included RoamRight Travel Insurance Policy, you must apply to RoamRight Insurance for your refund in accordance with policy terms and conditions. Please allow 6-8 weeks for processing by RoamRight.
How to Book
- Call Cruise & Tour at (800) 383-3131 or REQUEST A CALL
- Ask to have a place held on this trip
- You will receive an email with a link to our online registration form
Fill it out and you’re in!
It’s that easy. Give us a call today!
Travel Insurance Information
RoamRight Insurance
Pro Plan
Jay Weber’s “Trip of a Lifetime” – India includes comprehensive travel insurance.
- Click here to view and print the RoamRight Pro Groups brochure.
- Indicate on your reservation form whether you would like to increase your coverage to Cancel For Any Reason Insurance.
- If increasing your coverage, include your insurance payment with your initial deposit.
To view and print the Description of Coverage, click here.
Cancellation/Interruption
Passport Information
SPECIAL NOTE: Travel outside of the U.S. requires a passport with an expiration date six months or more beyond your return date. If you have a valid passport, please include a copy of the picture page with your completed reservation form. See below for more information on passport application or renewal. The name on your reservation must match the first and last name on your passport. Non-U.S. citizens must consult the appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed and are responsible for obtaining all visas and entry documents.