Compare The Virginia International Tattoo at the Virginia Arts Festival by Road Scholar vs Country Roads of the Deep South 2022 Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1
Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Norfolk, VA D Courtyard Marriott Norfolk Downtown
Activity note: Hotel check in from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Program Registration: 3:00-5:00 p.m. After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff and pick up your Welcome packet containing an up-to-date schedule that reflects any last-minute changes, other important information, and to confirm when and where the Orientation session will take place. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in.

Dinner: At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet dinner with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Unless noted otherwise, travel and transfers will be provided primarily by school buses, which are not equipped with air-conditioning. We will pre-select choices for some meals using forms in the preparatory materials. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

Day 2
Parade of Nations, Chrysler Museum, Backstage, Tattoo
Norfolk, VA B,L,D Courtyard Marriott Norfolk Downtown
Activity note: Walking approx. 1.5 miles throughout the day; some stairs at parade risers and Scope Arena; periods of standing at Chrysler Museum. Our reserved seats for the parade are not covered; be sure to account for the weather. Driving approximately 4.5 miles; about 2 hours total, with stops. School buses are not equipped with air-conditioning. Evening performance is approx. 2 hours.

Breakfast: At the hotel, we’ll have a breakfast buffet featuring a variety of hot and cold items, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: Immediately following breakfast we’ll walk a few blocks from the hotel with our Group Leader and take our reserved seats for the Parade of Nations, held in conjunction with the Virginia International Tattoo and the Norfolk NATO Festival. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a political and military alliance safeguarding freedom and security. Norfolk has been the site of NATO’s Supreme Allied Command, Atlantic, since 1953. Not only does the Parade of Nations feature floats and international military bands from all 28 NATO nations as well as high school marching bands, but it is the only parade in the United States that formally honors NATO. After the parade, we’ll board our school bus for a very short transfer to the Chrysler Museum of Art.

Lunch: At the museum, we’ll have our pre-selected boxed lunches including a choice of sandwich, plus chips, a cookie, and drink.

Afternoon: Then we’ll go on a docent-led exploration through the Chrysler Museum of Art. It was preceded by the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences, but everything changed when art collector, philanthropist, and benefactor Walter P. Chrysler, Jr., donated his personal art collection to Norfolk in 1971. His contribution — one of the greatest museum gifts in American history — resulted in the Norfolk Museum being renamed for him as it became one of the finest art museums in the country. It has been dubbed by museum experts one of America’s “Six Magnetic Museums” for its audience engagement. Next, we’ll board the school bus for a short ride to the Scope Arena for a behind-the-scenes look at the Virginia International Tattoo led by the directors and event staff. A tattoo, in this context, is a gathering of an ensemble for the performance of military music, but the word originated in the 17th century when military drummers would signal the time for soldiers to return to their barracks. As we walk, we will learn from them about tonight's performance, the production and staging of the event, and the venue before having some time to pose any questions. We’ll then return to the hotel.

Dinner: After walking a short distance to the Brick House Diner, we’ll arrive and enjoy our pre-selected plated entrée choices, plus salad, rolls, and dessert. Non-alcoholic beverages included; BYOB is permitted.

Evening: Returning to the Scope Arena via school bus, we will head inside to our reserved seats for an exceptionally exciting and colorful display of musical "tattoos." Tonight's Grand Performance lasts approximately two hours with all of the participating bands and units, concluding in a grand finale. The Virginia International Tattoo, the greatest and grandest in the U.S., involves more than 1,000 performers. In addition to the military bands and drill teams, there are pipe and drum bands from around the world, dancers, choirs, and much more. The spirit of patriotism and love of country suffuses every event. We’ll then return to the hotel via school bus after the performance.

Day 3
Norfolk History, MacArthur Memorial, Nauticus, A Capella
Norfolk, VA B,L,D Courtyard Marriott Norfolk Downtown
Activity note: Walking approx. 1.5 miles; about 2 hours, with periods of standing; some stairs. Driving approximately 2 miles; about 1/2 hour for the day, with stops.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We will start our day with a presentation in the hotel meeting room given by a local historian and Norfolk resident. Norfolk is the home of the world’s largest naval base. Service members of the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, and Marines are also well represented. The total population of active duty service members and related civilian personnel is approximately 150,000, not including their families. Next, we will walk the short distance to the MacArthur Memorial, which pays tribute to General of the Army, Douglas A. MacArthur, as well as the men and women who served with him during World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. The memorial uses his life and times to learn about American history and we will have time to explore MacArthur’s grave and the museum’s other exhibits independently. Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964) was one of America’s most notable military leaders before, during, and after World War II. He was also controversial, and was ultimately removed from command by President Harry Truman. He is particularly remembered for two statements: the first, when leaving the Philippines in the face of advancing Japanese troops, “I shall return!” and the second from his farewell address, “Old soldiers never die, they just fade away.” We’ll then continue to Scope Arena to listen to the music of the Hullabaloo in the open air.

Lunch: At the Scope Plaza, everyone will receive a stipend with which to enjoy lunch. Choose from the many food vendors as the Hullabaloo performances and Drumline Competition are underway. Outdoor venue; no seating for dining.

Afternoon: Rendezvousing at a predetermined time and place, we’ll board the school bus and head to our next stop, Nauticus, Home of the Battleship Wisconsin, Nauticus is an interactive science and technology center that explores the naval, economic, and nautical power of the sea, with exhibits that range from the anatomy of a battleship to secrets of the deep. This field trip will be free for independent exploration, giving us the opportunity to see and do what interests each of us most. There will also be docents around the facility to answer any questions you may have. We’ll then return to the hotel before walking to dinner.

Dinner: Brick House Diner pre-selected plated meals.

Evening: Back at the hotel, we’ll enjoy a private performance just for our Road Scholar group by members of the Virginia Coast Chorus (VCC), an award-winning women’s show chorus. The group has members from all walks of life and specializes in the close harmonies of a capella “barbershop” singing. The VCC is an affiliate of the highly respected organization Sweet Adelines International that extends over five continents. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure following our final field trip in the morning.

Day 4
Harbor Naval Base Cruise at Nauticus, Program Concludes
Norfolk, VA B,L
Activity note: Short driving transfer. Walking approx. 1/2 mile; ramp to board boat; wearing comfortable and non-slip shoes aboard boat suggested. Getting on/off harbor boat; ride is about 2 hours; expected to end by approx. 10:30 a.m.; hotel check out by 12:00 Noon. Booking flights after 2:00 p.m. is recommended to allow ample time to travel to the airport.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: For our last field trip, we will be transported via school bus a short distance and board the cruise vessel, Victory Rover, for a morning of amazing sights along the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor. This is one of the world’s busiest seaports with the world’s largest naval base, home of America’s Atlantic Fleet. The main cabin has large picture windows and comfortable seating with more seating and views up top. As we go, the captain will give fascinating and entertaining commentary about what we’re seeing. At the conclusion of harbor cruise in the mid-morning, we’ll get off the boat, pick up our boxed lunches, and transfer back to the hotel for check-out.

Lunch: Box lunches will be available dockside to take with you. The choices have been pre-selected prior to arrival at the program. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Day 1: Arrive in Nashville

Welcome to Nashville, the capital of Tennessee and the USA’s glittering centre stage. From the Everly Brothers' “Bye Bye Love," to Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman," the streets are paved with talent. Your airport transfer will whisk you to your hotel.Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and mingling with guests at 18:00 followed by a Welcome Dinner with wine.

Day 2: Take centre stage in Nashville

Start your day with an orientation tour of music city. You'll visit the picturesque Riverfront Park, Tennessee State Capitol and the 132 acre Centennial State Park, where you'll encounter an exact replica of the Parthenon. Pass by the city's lively honky-tonks and street performers on Broadway, as you make your way to the Ryman Auditorium, former home of the Grand Ole Opry. Built in 1885 as a building for religious gatherings, it held its first concert in 1892, before opening its doors to Hollywood greats. It is here where Johnny Cash first met June Carter, where bluegrass was born and where country music found an audience. Tonight, head to the famous Grand Ole Opry, the world-renowned country music stage and longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history.

Day 3: A day of legends

Go behind the scenes of a Nashville recording studio. This intimate experience introduces you to a performing artist, musicians and the techniques behind a song’s development. Make a stop at Nashville’s Farmers' Market and Market House to explore its artisanal crafts and produce.Explore Nashville with Insight Choice. Choose to visit Nelson’s Green Brier, a local Tennessee distillery and home of the Original Tennessee Whiskey. Alternatively, visit the National Museum of African American Music, which shares the story of the American soundtrack through history and interactive technology.Tonight's dinner at Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant will introduce you to the colourful flavours of Nashville. Perhaps try the crabmeat cheesecake.

Day 4: Heading back home to Memphis

This morning you'll head to Memphis. Whether it’s your first or hundredth time visiting this vibrant city, you’ll be drawn in by the lively melodies coming from Beale Street.Spend the morning on a sightseeing tour of the city, followed by a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the National Civil Rights Museum. While there, you’ll be guided through five centuries of The Civil Rights Movement history and its impact on our culture today.End your day by joining a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a private evening at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is part of The Soulsville Foundation, which aims to prepare young adults for life success and inspire future artists.

Day 5: A day dedicated to the King

Begin you day with a visit to Sun Studio, the “birthplace of rock and roll”, where music legends, including B.B. King, Johnny Cash and Elvis recorded.Make your way to the magnificent Graceland, the former home of the "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis Presley.Dinner this evening will be served at The Beauty Shop, a former parlour turned whimsical New American eatery where Elvis’ ex-wife, Priscilla, was said to get her hair done.

Day 6: Memphis to Greenwood

Travel through the Mississippi Delta down the Mississippi Blues Trail, a route that tells the stories of bluesmen and women. Explore the Delta town of Greenwood at your own pace, before heading to the Viking Cooking School for a hot tamales cooking demonstration - a regional specialty.Later, dine on a mouthwatering dinner at a James Beard Award finalist restaurant that features southern inspired dishes that include produce local to the area.

Day 7: Moving on to Natchez

Learn more about Southern history and hospitality as you head to Natchez. Tour the historic antebellum mansions, and discover the preservation efforts of later generations to tell the story of African-Americans through the decades, understanding that slavery and cotton allowed plantation owners to build these mansions. Test your mixologist skills as you concoct a traditional Southern cocktail, the Mint Julep. Minty, cooling and with a touch of sweetness, you're sure to learn a few party tricks to bring back home with you. Enjoy an evening to yourself. Ask your Travel Director for restaurant suggestions and discover one of the wonderful options in town.

Day 8: Natchez to Lafayette

Move on to Lafayette for a taste of the Cajun and Creole culture. Get to know more about Cajun culture and how it is defined by its roots.Head to the Acadian Cultural Center followed by a unique Cajun music experience.A genre rooted in the ballads of the French-speaking Acadians, it is both eclectic and joyous. Learn more about this fast tempo music and its history from a local accordion maker and musician.In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner with your fellow travellers.

Day 9: Lafayette for foodies

Start the day with a crawfish farm tour just outside the city. You will be joined by a Local Expert who will help you catch your lunch the old-fashioned way, using hand nets. You’ll be taught how to prepare a traditional boil, before sitting down to the meal. If crawfish are out of season, you'll take part in a boil experience with seasonal seafood. Later, enjoy time at leisure or head out on an optional swamp tour.

Day 10: Welcome to the Big Easy

New Orleans is a lively and dynamic city, known for its vibrant culture and electric jazz festivals. On the way down south, stop at the Tabasco® Factory for a self-guided tour and discover how the world-famous red hot pepper sauce is made. This afternoon, head to the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, where you’ll learn more about the city’s diverse cuisine with a guided tour and included lunch.

Day 11: Festivities in New Orleans Relaxed Start

Get to know the city with a Local Expert as you discover each neighborhood's unique architecture and explore the vibrant art scene. See how the community comes together through celebration.In the afternoon, take your pick of optional activities, perhaps getting to know the local culture through a jazz music experience or by meeting a voodoo specialist.End your day by joining your fellow travellers at a Celebration Dinner at the Palace Cafe - a contemporary and upbeat Creole restaurant at the foot of the French Quarter.

Day 12: Depart New Orleans

It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers as your adventure comes to an end with a departure to the airport.