Page 15 - AAA Central Penn – AAA Now! – September/October 2018

AAA
Venture through the fortress and historic buildings while taking in the surrounding ocean views. There will also be free time to take in the sights of the Algarve at a leisurely pace.
Moving onward, the next stop will be Faro. Explore the city’s historic center with its 9th century Roman walls, dramatic coastline and architectural gems.
In historic Sáo Brás de Alportel a presentation by a local liqueur maker is followed by a tasting of some of the many varieties produced in the region. There will also be a tour of a local cork factory to learn about its importance to the local economy and its many uses.
On the final day, en route to Lisbon, stop in Azeitao, a charming agricultural village known
for red wine, olive trees and beautiful country estates. Take a tour of the centuries-old Jose Maria de Fonseca Winery, followed by a tasting of local wines. Then meet local artisans at a family-run shop that demonstrates how azulejos, the famous hand- painted Portuguese tiles, are made.
This promises to be an enlightening tour delving into the culture of the Portuguese people, with plenty of time to savor the pleasures of their beautiful country
TM
Discover the Sunny Side of Picturesque Portugal By Judie Karhan
While Portugal has lived in the shadow of Spain for centuries, it has emerged into the spotlight as one of Europe’s most unique destinations, with wonderful seaside resorts in the sunny southern region, charming towns and villages worthy of exploration, and an exciting capital city, Lisbon.
AAA Member Choice Vacations invites you to experience all the best of Portugal’s southern region on an exceptional Sunny Portugal tour departing in March 2019.
The journey begins in the picturesque coastal resort of Cascais and Estoril, which has achieved notoriety ever since King Luis I chose to make the area his summer residence in the late 19th century. The mansions scattered about Cascais and Monte Estoril hint at its history as a haven for exiled European royals and nobility.
In nearby Lisbon, a sightseeing tour will include Geronimo’s Monastery and Belem Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage sites; the Monument to the Discoveries; and the National Museum of Coaches. If you prefer to take a walking tour of the Alfama District, step back in time as you explore the narrow streets and alleys, squares and churches of this
historic residential neighborhood; then climb to the castle at the top of the hill to take in inspiring panoramic views of the city. Later in the day, enjoy time in the Portuguese Riviera. Stroll along narrow cobblestone streets, sit in a seaside café, walk wide Oceanside promenades or shop for ceramics, lace, hand-woven goods and tapestries.
The following day it’s on to the picturesque
town of Sintra, the famous summer residence of Portuguese kings for six centuries. Then travel to Portugal’s beautiful “Silver Coast,” a region sprinkled with sleepy villages, vineyards and castles, and see picture-perfect Obidos where white-washed houses are held snug by medieval walls. The day also includes a visit to Fatima, the world-famous Marian pilgrimage site.
This itinerary also takes you through the Portuguese countryside and the medieval walled city of Evora, as well as the medieval hilltop village of Monasaraz, which has carefully preserved its original charm. From the 13th century castle, enjoy amazing panoramic views of the countryside. A winery tour and tasting will be enjoyed before spending the night at a country resort set among
3,000 acres of farmland, vineyards and cork trees.
The next leg of the journey takes you to the famous Algarve region, where you will see the 16th century fortress
at Sagres and Cape
of St. Vincent, where 200-foot cliffs plunge into the Atlantic. Next, explore the historic resort town of Lagos, with its Moorish and Renaissance influences.
SUNNY PORTUGAL
March 1-10, 2019 • From $3,539 per person, double occupancy
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Portuguese Riviera • Algarve • Lisbon • Fado Dinner Show • Fatima • Alentejo Countryside Stay • Lagos • Two Winery Tours • 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
INCLUDED FEATURES: Free parking with round-trip transfers – Philadelphia, PA to Lisbon, Portugal • Round-trip transfers – airport/hotel • Eight nights hotel accommodations • Sightseeing by luxury coach as stated in itinerary
• Services of professional AAA Member Choice Vacations Tour Manager
• Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 dinners • Welcome dinner • All local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage for one suitcase • Services of a Discoveries Journey Manager
For more information and to make reservations, call 888-743-2844.
Rates are subject to availability at time of booking and include taxes, fees and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. All pricing and included features are based on a minimum of 25 passengers.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018
15
Now!