GREAT WINE ESTATES OF CHILE,
ARGENTINA & URUGUAY
November 4 – November 14, 2012
Post tour Iguazu Falls dates: November 14-16
“If I have to apply five turns to the screw each day for the happiness of Argentina, I will do it.”
- Evita Perón -
Save up to $250 per person, see our Ways to Save below!
The time is ripe! Join fellow Earthbounders on a culturally rich 11-day, 10-night sumptuous wine tour to Argentina and Chile. En route from Santiago to Buenos Aires, you’ll sip velvety smooth wines in Mendoza, cross the Andes at sunrise into Argentina and enjoy the full flavored wines of the Calchagua Valley.
In addition, you’ll be treated to a day in colonial Uruguay, a hands-on cooking class, private tours of world-class museums and outings to colorful markets. You won’t want to miss out on this historic, perfectly blended adventure to South America!
JOURNEY OVERVIEW
Overnight flight to Chile
1 Night Santiago, Chile
2 Nights Santa Cruz, Chile
1 Night Portillo Mountain Resort, Chile
3 Nights Mendoza wine lands, Argentina
3 Nights Buenos Aires, Argentina
2 Night Post tour option to Iguazú Falls
Overnight return flight
JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
Numerous private wine tastings with local producers in Chile and Argentina ♦ Privately guided tours of each town visited ♦ A private tour of the Chilean National History Museum♦ The Eva Perón Museum ♦ The Opportunity to visit the home of Pablo Neruda in Santiago ♦ The handicraft market of “San Telmo” ♦ A seafood lunch in the central fish market of Santiago ♦ A lesson in cooking empanadas and carbonada and pairing Argentine foods with Malbec and Torrontés wines ♦ Visit to a colonial hacienda ♦ A wine pairing lunch in Mendoza ♦ Andes crossing into Argentina ♦ Ferry across the Río de la Plata to Colonia, Uruguay ♦ A small group of soon-to-be-friends.
IT’S INCLUDED
- Guided by an expert Earthbound Expeditions program manager
- Four-star hotel accommodations
- Breakfast daily plus twelve additional multi-course meals served in traditional settings
- Private transfers by air-conditioned mini bus
- Entrances and special wine tasting events as described in your itinerary
- Fascinating city tours with informative local guides in Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Santa Cruz and Santiago
- Private museum tours highlighting the history of both countries
- A visit to the overlook point “Cerro San Cristobal”
- The service of a wine expert throughout the tour
- A special cooking class in Mendoza
- Maps and a pre-tour reading and video list
- Fun language lessons while in South America
- A pre-tour gathering and wine tasting
- A small group of like-minded travelers who share your passion for food, wine and culture
TRIP FACTS
11 Days/10 Nights (without air travel)
$3,775 (land) 15-24 guests
$750 Single suppl. (waived if a roommate is found)
Trip begins in Santiago: November 4, 2012
Trip ends on the afternoon of November 14, in Buenos Aires
Post tour ends at Buenos Aires airport on November 16, in the evening
*Exchange rates $1USD = 490 Pesos
GETTING TO / FROM SOUTH AMERICA
American and Delta Airlines each offer direct flights to Santiago, Chile and direct return flights to the USA. Anyone arriving on or departing on the official start or end dates on one of these carriers will be offered a complimentary airport transfer upon arrival and departure. American and Delta flights arrive in the Santiago early in the morning and depart after 9:00pm from Buenos Aires. Therefore, we plan on using the day of arrival (Nov. 4) an day of departure (Nov. 14) to do a bit of sightseeing in both cities. To check rates please go to: www.kayak.com
WAYS TO SAVE!
Pay by check: Pay your final balance by check or money order and save $75 per person.
Alumni Discounts: All alumni of Earthbound Expeditions will receive $100 off the published journey price (private trips may be excluded). If Earthbound Expeditions has other discounts available, participants may choose the greatest available discount.
Refer a Friend: Refer a friend and save an additional $75 for each person new to Earthbound who travels with you on an Earthbound Expedition. “Refer a Friend” discounts may be combined with other discounts.
“I have one thing that counts, and that is my heart; it burns in my soul, it aches in my flesh, and it ignites my nerves: that is my love for the people and Peron.”
- Evita -
YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS…
DAY 0
Depart North America for Chile
In order to arrive on November 4, you’ll need to need to depart no later than November 3-
DAY 1
NOVEMBER 4
Arrive in Chiles historic capital, Santiago
Upon arrival in Santiago this morning, spend some time freshening up before meeting your guide for a fascinating exploration of the heart of Santiago. Visit Santa Lucia hill, where Pedro de Valdivia founded the city in 1542, and walk to the oldest church in Santiago. See the charming neighborhood known as Paris-Londres and visit the main square, “Plaza de Armas.” Welcome dinner included this evening. Sleep in Santiago
DAY 2
Santiago to Santa Cruz
This morning we’ll sent out to explore the Palacio de la Real Audiencia. Also known as the The National History Museum, this museum holds a superb collection of more than 70,000 colonial-era pieces, from furniture to suits of armor to home appliances. This fascinating grab bag of artifacts is laid out in 16 display rooms within the lemon-colored, neoclassical Palacio de la Real, built in 1807 and the historic site of the first Chilean congressional session. The museum will give you insight into the history of the lives of Chileans, and it’s conveniently located on the Plaza de las Armas.
We’ll have lunch in the colorful and chaotic Mercado Central, a fun way to see Chile’s agricultural exports displayed. Shoppers always enjoy watching the lively fishmongers gutting and filleting fish and the market displays every kind of fish and shellfish available along the Chilean coast. After lunch, we’ll drive south two hours to the beautiful town of Santa Cruz. Located in the heart of Chile’s premier wine valley, Santa Cruz is the perfect location in which to start our wine adventure of Chile. Sleep in Santa Cruz
DAY 3
Great Wine Estates of the Colchagua Valley and an Evening with the Stars
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Santa Cruz and then depart for the Viña Santa Laura. While at the estate, you’ll enjoy an in-depth private tour, tasting and lunch. We return to historic Santa Cruz in the late afternoon. Relax and enjoy Santa Cruz before departing for a very special evening out. Tonight you’ll ride a cable car to the top of a nearby summit . Once there you’ll enjoy dinner and the outstanding Cerro Chamán Observatory which is one of the best places on the planet to stargaze and view the southern sky. Sleep in Santa Cruz
Chile and the Carmenere Grape - Read More
Meanwhile, Carmenere from France had quietly migrated to Chile, along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. By the 1990s, Chileans were profiting from the worldwide fascination with Merlot. However, some winemakers noticed traits that set some of their Merlot apart. Analysis soon showed that Carmenere had been planted willy-nilly among the Merlot, and that much of Chilean Merlot was in reality Carmenere. Rather than panic, Chilean winemakers deftly turned scandal into opportunity. They recognized what Carmenere lovers have come to appreciate: the low tannins and big, bright blackberry fruit of Carmenere make it a delight to drink and an ideal match for a range of foods.
Since Chile began actively marketing Carmenere in the mid-1990s, it has come to symbolize the nation much like Shiraz calls to mind Australia, Malbec, Argentina and Zinfandel, California. “The mix-up was understandable,” said Randy Ullom, Winemaster for Kendall-Jackson and supervisor of winemaking for Calina. “Carmenere and Merlot are similar. But the trained eye can notice Carmenere sports pinkish leaves that set it apart.”
DAY 4
Into the Andes!
After a hearty Chilean breakfast, we set out to explore the Museo de Colchagua if reopened. This is the largest private museum in Chile and considered by many to have the best collection of Chilean artifacts. It has a vast, eclectic collection containing pre-Columbian pottery and textiles as well as fossils, artifacts from the conquistadors, wine-making equipment and religious artwork. The museum even contains a room dedicated to huasos (Chilean cowboys). After lunch, we continue north. En-route we’ll stop at a winery and then continue our the drive to our mountain ski resort home in Portillo. Sleep in the shadow of the Andes Mountains in Portillo
DAY 5
Cross the Andes to Mendoza, Argentina!
Weather permitting, we will see the tallest mountain in the Americas. The “Puente del Inka” or “Aconcagua” soars towards the heavens to 23,000 feet. After crossing the Argentine border we reach the town of Mendoza. Located in the heart of Argentina’s premier wine country, Mendoza is perfectly situated. Full of charming boutiques, cafes and superb restaurants, Mendoza is Chile’s version of Napa Valley. Tonight, you sample Argentina’s world-famous grass-fed beef with a fine, locally produced Malbec wine (vegetarian and poultry dishes also available). Sleep in Mendoza
DAY 6
Grand Estates & Argentine Culinary Secrets
After breakfast we begin our day with a bit of Mendoza’s history. We’ll visit “Pedro de Castillo” Square, the very place where the city was founded, and learn more about the history of Mendoza and South America. In the afternoon, we continue on to visit the Bodega Zuccardi, where our hosts have prepared a very special cooking class followed by a delicious wine-pairing lunch. An optional horseback riding trip into the outback with a local gaucho may be arranged for those not wishing to spend a morning in the kitchen. Ask your guide for details. We’ll make our way back to Mendoza for a siesta before dinner (if anyone plans to eat again!) Sleep in Mendoza
DAY 7
An Outing to the Lujan de Cuyo Valley
Spend a leisurely free morning in a café or strolling the charming streets of Mendoza. Then, enjoy a special late afternoon lunch and wine tasting at the Bodega Norton. This winery was founded in 1895 by the English engineer Mr. Edmund James Norton, and is located south of the Mendoza River in the district of Perdriel. In 1989 the winery was bought by the Austrian entrepreneur Gernot Langes Swarovski, and today is one of the leading wine producers in Argentina. Sample fine Cabernet Sauvignons, Malbecs, and Merlots. Afterward we’ll visit two wineries: Achaval-Ferrer and Trapiche. Return to Mendoza in the late afternoon. Sleep in Mendoza
DAY 8
Fly to Buenos Aires and enjoy the San Telmo market
This morning we transfer to the Mendoza airport for our morning flight to Buenos Aires. Our first visit in this world-class city is the Sunday market of San Telmo. This is where you’ll capture a true slice of Buenos Aires life as you stroll past artisan stalls, entertaining street musicians and talented dancers demonstrating the Tango! Tonight we’ll dine together in a charming bistro in a typical neighborhood. Sleep in Buenos Aires
The New Argentines - Read More
The New Argentine: Beginning in the 19th century, the majority of immigrants to Argentina came from Europe, mostly from Italy and Spain. Also notable were Jewish immigrants escaping persecution. The total population of Argentina rose from 4 million in 1895 to 7.9 million in 1914, and to 15.8 million in 1947; during this time the country was settled by 1.5 million Spaniards and 1.4 million Italians, as well as Poles, Russians, French (more than 100,000 each), Germans and Austrians (also more than 100,000), Portuguese, Greek, Ukrainians, Yugoslavians, Czechs, Irish, Scottish, Welsh, English, Dutch, Scandinavians, and people from other European and Middle Eastern countries. Most immigrants arrived through the port of Buenos Aires and stayed in the capital or within Buenos Aires Province, as still happens today. In 1895, immigrants accounted for 52% of the population in the capital. In 1914 the overall rate of foreign-born population reached its peak at 30% (greater than the percentage of foreign born nationals in the USA). Today 40 million people call Argentina home.
DAY 9
Buenos Aires
This is our day to discover the history of Buenos Aires. We’ll see the 16th century Plaza de Mayo with the “Casa Rosada” (government house), the Metropolitan Cathedral and the old “Cabildo” (chapter house), which was once the Spanish headquarters for this region of South America. Traveling down the “Avenida de Mayo” we arrive in historic Congreso Square which leads to both National Congress and “Corrientes Avenue,” (also called “the street that never sleeps”). Near the National Congress is the newly restored opera house known as the Teatro Colón and the “avenue 9 de Julio” (the world’s largest avenue) known affectionately today as “La Boca.” This is the district of bohemian Italian neighborhoods overflowing with colorful shops and lively cafes. Our journey culminates with a tour of the “Recoleta” and “Palermo” districts, where we’ll learn about the remarkable life story of Evita (Eva Perón). Before returning to the hotel, we’ll stop by the city cemetery to pay our respects to Argentina’s beloved artists and intellectuals. Rest and relax at the hotel before heading out for dinner. Sleep in Buenos Aires
DAY 10
An Excursion to Colonia—Uruguay!
This morning we make our way to the port, where we’ll hop a ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia, Uruguay. This charming town is the oldest in Uruguay and is an important UNESCO site. The pleasant streets, cafes and historic architecture charm all. We’ll cross the world’s biggest river, the “Rio de la Plata”, and in just over an hour arrive in what is commonly called the “Switzerland of South America: Uruguay. Enjoy a private walk through the cobblestone streets of this colonial Portuguese town, after which we’ll have a wine tasting and lunch. Return to Buenos Aires in the late afternoon. Sleep in Buenos Aires.
DAY 11
NOVEMBER 14
Free Day in Buenos Aires / Post Tour Extension Begins
Your guide will be on hand to assist you with your needs today. Complimentary airport transfers will be arranged for those departing home this evening. Post tour extension flight to Iguazu Falls will depart this afternoon (departure time to be determined).
Spend a full day exploring the many neighborhooods, shops, markets and museums of Buenos Aires. May we suggest…
Window Shopping & Museum Hopping
The boisterous intersecting streets of Florida and Lavalle are lined with shops selling leather goods, replica football shirts and the like, with the shopping arcade Galerías Pacífico providing classier goods in a Parisian-style Belle Époque building. More popular with the locals is the bigger, more fashionable mall of Alto Palermo at Avenida Santa Fe 3253, next to Bulnes subway station on line D. For cut-price leather, head for Calle Murillo, while the most enjoyable shopping experience is to stroll down Calle Armenia in Palermo, whose cool boutiques offer local designer goods for sometimes knockdown prices.
Museum of Latin American Art: Amid the broad avenues, parks and elegant buildings of Recoleta stands the Museum of Latin American Art. Its spacious, light-filled building at Avenida Alcorta 3415 houses an inspiring collection including works by Kahlo, Rivera and Botero.
Fortabat Museum: Recently opened, the Fortabat Museum is a long, narrow building with a rounded roof that towers overhead. You can spend hours inside admiring the private art collection of Amalia Fortabat, Argentina’s richest woman. The country’s best artists are represented, alongside international treasures like Andy Warhol, Hans Brueghel and JMW Turner.
Fundación PRO: The city’s best modern and contemporary art space.
Day 12
November 15
Arrive home with a lifetime of memories
Our exquisite journey has come to an end. Return home with a lifetime of memories.
“Let us have wine and women, mirth and laughter, sermons and soda-water the day after.”
- Lord Byron: Don Juan
Post Tour Extension to Iguazú Falls
Straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú Falls stretches close to 2 miles and contains over 270 separate cascades. This adventure provides opportunities to see both the panoramic views and the adrenaline rushing up-close-and-wet version. Upon seeing these mighty falls you understand why the Tupi Indians named them Iguazú (which means great waters).
IT’S INCLUDED
- Roundtrip domestic air from Buenos Aires to Iguazu Falls
- Airport transfers
- Breakfast daily
- Dinner upon arrival
- Privately guided tour of the falls and park entrance
TRIP FACTS
3 Days/2 Nights
$979 pp dbl.
$129 Single Supplement
Trip starts November 14
Trip ends November 16, at Buenos Aires Airport
YOUR POST TOUR JOURNEY BEGINS…
DAY 11
NOVEMBER 14
Transfer to the airport for your late afternoon flight north to Iguazú Falls. Upon arrival, spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the surrounding area. Dinner included at your 4-star hotel. Sleep near Iguazú Falls (B, D)
DAY 12
NOVEMBER 15
Discover Iguazú Falls
Meet your local guide this morning at 7:45 am for a full day of exploration. Your tour today will include a train ride, walk and magnificent views of the falls. If you wish, you may sign up for an afternoon cruise of the falls. There is also the option to take a 4WD to the lower part of the falls. Sleep near Iguazú Falls (B)
DAY 13
NOVEMBER 16
Return flight home
Transfer to the local Iguazú airport and fly south to Buenos Aires. Return flight to U.S. from Buenos Aires this evening.
DAY 14
NOVEMBER 17
Arrive home with a lifetime of memories
Things You Should Know - Read More
Not Included: Airline surcharges, taxes, baggage fees, alcoholic beverages with meals, meals not mentioned, room/mini-bar service, gratuities for hotel staff, travel insurance, items of a personal nature and activities not listed.
Pricing: In the event that there are fewer than the minimum number of participants listed on the itinerary, a small group comfort charge will be offered to ensure the journey departs as scheduled. Former guests have greatly appreciated the benefits of traveling with a smaller group. Earthbound staff or hosts are not included in the number of tour participants. Please refer to the detailed itinerary for pricing information specific to each journey.
Currency Fluctuations: The exchange rate on which the trip is based is listed on the itinerary under “Trip Facts” and was obtained through www.xe.com. Although no changes in the price of your trip are expected, Earthbound reserves the right to add a currency supplement or offer a refund due to unexpected currency fluctuations of plus or minus 5%. Seventy-five days prior to departure, rates will be reviewed and if necessary updated. Fluctuations greater then 5% will be noted in the final balance letter and invoice. Example: If the dollar falls against the Euro at a rate of 7%, a 2% surcharge will be added. In this case, Earthbound will absorb the initial 5% loss in the dollar. If the dollar gains against the Euro by 7%, a 2% reduction in price will be offered. NOTE: This policy pertains to euro zone countries (Russia, Western and Eastern Europe) only.
Dress: In general, our guests feel most comfortable when dressed in a “casually smart” (not formal) way. We are often asked about jeans and Europeans of all ages do indeed wear them. None of the places we visit or dine require that women wear dresses or that men wear suit jackets or ties or any other special clothing. You’ll dine in casually elegant bistros that are not at all stuffy.”
“The trip was better than wonderful. We were treated royally by the wineries, and the wineries were terrific.”
S. Bodkin
“I never thought I would rate a private group or club very high but now, when I travel with a group, it’s nice to know one’s fellow travelers have similar interests, education, purpose for being there.”
D. Awalt
“My heartfelt gratitude to you for one of the best experiences of my long life. Thanks to All Classical (my only radio station) and Earthbound Expeditions, a dream came true for me and my daughter.”
B. Kennedy
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”
Mark Twain
