Page 15 - AAA Central Penn - AAA Now! May/June 2015

TRAVEL AGENCY
AAA
TM
Iberian Neighbors: Spain & Portugal
Even More Remarkable Together
The Iberian Peninsula is renowned for stunning countryside, Moorish palaces, age-old cathedrals and a passionate, dynamic culture that has been molded over the course of a compelling and provocative history. Numerous debates have been spurred pitting Spain against Portugal for the title of the “ultimate Iberian travel destination,” but despite their apparent surface-level similarities the truth is that these neighbors boast their own distinctive characters
and charm. It may be tempting to visit just one or
the other and call it a complete trip, but to do so would seriously hamper your experience of Europe’s southwestern tip. For an authentic Iberian adventure, it is important to venture to both Spain and Portugal.
Spain historically tops the ranks as one of the world’s five most-popular destinations, and understandably so. This diverse country offers some of the most breathtaking mountain ranges on the continent and the imposing northwest cliffs are offset by the delightful coves of the Mediterranean. Poignant Roman ruins stand proudly beside chic modern architecture, and the country’s legendary regional cuisine is the sumptuous product of traditional recipes paired with bold experimentation. This is a country where passion reigns supreme – passion for food, family, fiestas and flamenco.
Portugal is sometimes described as Spain’s shy
and quiet younger sibling, often living in the shadow of its boisterous older brother. While Spain is one
of Europe’s biggest countries, Portugal is small and compact, proving that great things can come in small packages. The country’s staggering Atlantic coastline harbors spectacular surfing and seafood, and travelers can easily experience the contrasting northern and southern regions in a relatively short travel period. There is much more to Portugal than medieval castles, cobblestone villages and cinematic landscapes; major
cities like Lisbon and Porto offer year-round festivals and animated nightlife. Fortunately, the Portuguese have perfected the art
of fashioning exquisitely
simple meals from plentiful local produce and seafood – tasting the percebes is reason enough alone to visit.
While independent exploration is certainly possible, consider traveling with a superior guided tour company endorsed by AAA Travel to ensure you experience the best features each country
has to offer. Spain’s immense size makes choosing destinations a daunting task, and many of the country’s major attractions draw thousands of tourists (and long, long lines). Staying in Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon is a no-brainer, but debating between the country’s lesser-known cities can
be confusing. Professional tour companies take the guesswork out of travel planning and include expert local tour directors who offer well-informed personalized service –
allowing guests to tailor
each trip to their interests.
The lengthy ordeal of
waiting in line is eliminated
with VIP entrances, while
other perks include
business-class comfort on
coaches and the best hotels
in each destination.
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of traveling with a superior AAA-endorsed tour company, such as Insight Vacations, is their collection of Signature Events. These inventive experiences
allow travelers to discover each destination in all
its authenticity, such as witnessing famous original artwork, sampling regional flavors and meeting fascinating locals who share personal accounts
of their homeland. Here are just a few samples of Signature Events in
Spain and Portugal:
• Madrid: Tour the Prado Museum with an expert
art historian.
• Lisbon: Enjoy a demonstration and tasting of
the world-famous “pasteis de belem,” deemed
Portugal’s finest pastry for more than 100 years. • Granada: Take a private tour of the Alhambra
Palace, an arabesque fantasy in stone.
• Seville: Enjoy a passion-filled evening of dinner,
drinks and a fiery flamenco performance.
These most memorable experiences will vividly capture your attention as well as provide authentic insights into the heart and soul of these neighboring countries as you travel throughout the remarkable Iberian Peninsula.
AMAZING SPAIN & PORTUGAL
October 30 - November 8, 2015 $3,689 per person, double occupancy
ITINERARY:
Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Seville, Lisbon, Fatima, Salamanca, Avila, Madrid
INCLUDED FEATURES:
• Free parking with round-trip transfers to Newark International Airport
• Round-trip airfare Newark to Madrid, Spain
• Eight nights hotel accommodations
• Sightseeing as stated in itinerary by
• Services of a professional Insight Tour Director • Meals: 8 buffet breakfasts, 4 dinners
• All local taxes, hotel service charges &
porterage for one suitcase per person • AAA Group Leader
luxury coach
For more information or reservations, contact your local AAA Central Penn office.
MAY/JUNE 2015
15
Now!