Southern Explorer

Southern Explorer

936 Views
14 Days From

$4286

$2501

Southern Explorer

14 Days Starting in New York, NY, USA and ending in Miami, FL, USA

Visiting: New York, Philadelphia, Washington, Williamsburg, Roanoke, Blue Ridge Mountains, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains, Nashville, Memphis, Jackson, New Orleans, Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola, Orlando, Kennedy Space Center, Miami

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

USE

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 55

Physical rating:

Low, Easy

Age range:

18-39

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:
English
Activities:

Sightseeing

From:
$4286
$2501 (USD) Operator discount: -$1714 The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$71 -42%
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Tour Overview

Discover the best cities of the Eastern USA from New York all the way to Miami on a 14-day journey, getting to the bottom of the American spirit with guided tours in every destination. The Southern Explorer trip is perfect for those who have a cultural inclination, making a stop at the country’s iconic cities of music, arts, and European heritage. Once you experience the plethora of sights in New York and Washington D.C., head inland, and pass through the grand Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. Taking in the views, arrive at the legendary music city Nashville and feel the country groove at its best. Memphis will change the tunes to blues and rock and roll, where you will get to trace the footsteps of the world’s most iconic musician, Elvis Presley. Revel in the unique and frisky culture of New Orleans and enjoy Florida’s modern attractions.

Highlights

  • Visit a mixture of historic and cultural landmarks with your local guide in the most recognized cities of the eastern half of the USA in 14 days.

  • Stay in the comfort of 3 & 4-star hotels with central locations and great facilities. Spend less time on the road with the carefully designed itinerary.

  • Wander among the historic symbols of Washington D.C. for a visual tour of America’s revolutionary history and learn the stories from your guide.

  • Spend a night in the mountainous town of Gatlinburg watching the night sky revolve over the Great Smoky Mountains. Feel free to explore the picturesque alleys of the town at your own pace.

  • Take an optional and very much-needed tour of Graceland, the famed home of Elvis, or feel the memory of countless musicians as you stroll down Beale Street in the legendary Memphis.

  • You can choose to immerse in the local culture with an optional cruise on an authentic Mississippi River Boat. The quirky charm of New Orleans will put a spell on you over 2 nights.

  • Spend a free day in Orlando, pay a visit to Disneyland if you wish, and engage in the thumping atmosphere of the sun-kissed Miami beach.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: New York

Location: New York

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Martinique NY on Broadway – 4 Star

Meals Included: No Meals

Welcome to New York City! Meet your group and tour leader in the evening for an informal welcome at the hotel.

Until then, feel free to roam the famed streets of New York like a local or rest up for our great adventure ahead!



Day 2: New York – Philadelphia – Washington D.C.

Location: New York, Philadelphia, Washington

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Washington Hilton – 4 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

We depart New York for Philadelphia, where we spend the morning exploring the gorgeous historic district of the “City of Brotherly Love” and the birthplace of a nation.

See landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, and stroll through Independence National Historic Park and Mall.

Then continue to the nation's iconic capital, Washington, D.

C.





Included Activities

Sightseeing of Independence Hall

Sightseeing of Liberty Bell

Day 3: Washington D.C.

Location: Washington

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Washington Hilton – 4 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Ready to explore the capital inside out? Tag along your expert guide to learn all about the marvellous sights such as the U.

S.

Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the White House and Arlington National Cemetery, site of the JFK Memorial.

Enjoy your personal leisure time in the afternoon, perhaps visit some of the many museums including the famous Smithsonian Institute or simply stroll the banks of the Potomac River.





Included Activities

Sightseeing of Washington D.

C.



Day 4: Washington, D.C. - Williamsburg - Roanoke

Location: Washington, Williamsburg, Roanoke

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Tanglewood – 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Our journey continues to Willamsburg, Virginia's colonial capital.

Visit the the Duke of Gloucester Street and discover the city's impressive public buildings, authentic colonial houses and the college of William and Mary.

Then we ride inland towards Roanoke, where we spend the night.





Included Activities

Sightseeing of Williamsburg

Day 5: Roanoke - Blue Ridge Mountains - Great Smoky Mountains - Gatlinburg

Location: Roanoke, Blue Ridge Mountains, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Edgewater Hotel & Conference Center – 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Watch the charming landscape as we drive along the Blue Ridge Mountains, setting up the scene for the fascinating Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Gatlinburg with abundant evening time to spend at your leisure.

Explore the unique resturants and cafes on the high street before a refreshing rest at the hotel.





Included Activities

Panoramic Sightseeing of Great Smoky Mountains

Day 6: Gatlinburg - Nashville

Location: Gatlinburg, Nashville

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Inn at Opryland, A Gaylord Hotel – 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, our adventure takes us through Knoxville, the third largest city of Tennessee, to Music City USA, Nashville! Arriving early in the afternoon, absorb the buzing music scene and the modern skyline of the city at your own tempo.





Day 7: Nashville - Memphis

Location: Nashville, Memphis

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown – 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Without skipping a beat, we travel on to Memphis! The city is acclaimed for blues music and home to the legendary Sun Records, where immortal artists as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded albums.

Take a tour of the city with your guide to explore Beale Street, the ever-beating heart of blues.

In the afternoon, you can join an optional tour to Graceland, the former home of the one and only Elvis Presley.







Included Activities

Memphis City Tour

Optional Activities

Graceland Tour

Day 8: Memphis - Jackson - New Orleans

Location: Memphis, Jackson, New Orleans

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hilton New Orleans Riverside – 4 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

We delve further south and into Mississippi, the 'Magnolia State'.

Driving through the state capital, Jackson, we continue to Lousiana and New Orleans.

See up close the home of the infamous costume parade on Mardi Gras and why New Orleans is called the 'Big Easy'.

Enjoy round-the-clock nightlife, a buzzing live-music scene and spicy, fascinating heritage with influences of American, French and African cultures.

In the evening, you can familiarise yourself with the Creole culture on an optional Mississippi Riverboat dinner cruise with live tunes by a Dixieland jazz band.





Optional Activities

Mississippi Riverboat dinner cruise

Day 9: New Orleans

Location: New Orleans

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hilton New Orleans Riverside – 4 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

The day is yours to enjoy at leisure! Soak in the French flavor and splendor of New Orleans oozing in the air.

Venture the French Quarter with its distinctive iron balconies hanging over narrow streets of cobblestone.

Climb atop an infamous New Orleans levee to grasp how these unique engineering projects safeguard the city against nature.

Frequent one of the trendy live music venues.





Day 10: New Orleans - Gulf Of Mexico - Pensacola

Location: New Orleans, Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Pensacola – 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Following the Mississippi Gulf Coast through Mobile, we travel to the city of Pensacola.

Here we will take a tour of one of the top 10 rose gardens in the United States, the Bellingrath Home! Then, visit Pensacola Beach to roam among sea oats dancing in the wind and dip your toes in the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.





Included Activities

The Bellingrath Home visit

Sightseeing of Pensacola Beach

Day 11: Pensacola - Orlando

Location: Pensacola, Orlando

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration – 3 Star

Meals Included: No Meals

We continue east towards central Florida taking a panoramic route through Ocala, a region renowned for thoroughbred horses and fields of citrus.

Our next stop will be the fantasyland of thrilling entertainment, Orlando! Arrive in Orlando around 6pm, explore the town on your terms and have a good night's rest for an adventrous day tomorrow.





Accommodation

Holiday Inn & Suites Orlando SW - Celebration Area - 3 Star (or similar)

Included Activities

Panoramic Sightseeing of Ocala

Day 12: Orlando

Location: Orlando

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration – 3 Star

Meals Included: No Meals

Make the most of Orlando, the 'City Beautiful' for yourself! You can explore the city in depth, recharge by the pool, or up the adrenaline with a visit to one of Orlando's world-famous attractions such as Universal Studios, Walt Disney World or Sea World!



Day 13: Orlando - Kennedy Space Center - Miami

Location: Orlando, Kennedy Space Center, Miami

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Miami Beach-Oceanfront – 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Departing sunny Orlando, we ride on to the distinguished Kennedy Space Center, home of United States' space programme! Visit the centre in fascination of the amazing feats accomplished with tremendous efforts to expand humanity's horizon.

We continue to Miami to land on the famous Miami Beach, always vibrant and diverse! We will arrive at the hotel around 7pm, enjoy the evening at your leisure.





Included Activities

Kennedy Space Center visit

Day 14: Miami

Location: Miami

Meals Included: No Meals

Our trip will end in Miami after we bid our farewells and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 & 3 star hotels

  • Meals

    1 Breakfast

  • Transportation

    A/C coach or mini-bus

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced tour leaders

  • Orientation Walks

    Organised orientation walks at some of the towns visited

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi ( where available )

What's Not Included

  • Any flights not mentioned above

  • Travel Insurance

  • Meals not stated above

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Tips and gestures

  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Optional activities

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Check out our Q&As

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No

  • What is the maximum group size?

    Maximum group size is 55

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    No passenger under the age of 21

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this Operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Scarlett Lily  

One of the best holidays I’ve had

25-Feb-2021

We went on a tour of the Balkans and it was above our expectations. Bojan was the best tour leader gave us so much information about the places we were visiting but also a great laugh! The tour ran so smoothly and was the perfect way to see the area in a little amount of time. It was one of the best holidays I have been on, I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to book another tour with travel talk. They are great value for money!

Trustpilot
James Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed the exotic Morocco...

29-Oct-2023

Just completed the exotic Morocco tour with our excellent guide Abdul! He was one of the best tour guides I have met, he brought so much energy and knowledge on the tour and could not imagine doing the tour without him. The tour itself was so diverse, seeing so many different landscapes. It has been one of the best trips I have done. Would highly recommend!

Caroline Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

My partner and I thoroughly...

25-Dec-2023

My partner and I thoroughly enjoyed our 9 Day Essential Turkey tour with Mustafa as our guide. His attentiveness to the group's needs was amazing, going above and beyond to ensure an stress-free experience. Mustafa provided valuable local insights, guiding us on the best areas to visit and helping us find good local deals. Overall, we found the tour to be excellent value for money, and we were particularly impressed with traveltalks accommodation choices—clean, spacious, and offering great meal options. Additionally, the inclusion of two drivers for our safety during long journeys added an extra layer of reassurance to our memorable trip. Thank you to Mustafa!

Tegan Bull (Google Reviewer)  

Unforgettable Turkey Essentials: A Journey...

25-Dec-2023

Unforgettable Turkey Essentials: A Journey with Travel Talk I recently had the pleasure of embarking on the Turkey Essentials tour with Travel Talk, and let me tell you, it was an adventure like no other! From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient wonders of Ephesus, this tour was a perfect blend of culture, history, and pure fun. Travel Talk ensured that every aspect of our trip was well-planned. The accommodations were comfortable, the transportation was smooth, and the itinerary was perfectly curated to showcase the best of Turkey's rich history and vibrant culture. If you're looking for an incredible adventure in Turkey, I wholeheartedly recommend Travel Talk. Their attention to detail, knowledgeable guides (Mustafa), ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a thrilling travel experience, Travel Talk has got you covered. Thank you, Travel Talk for an extraordinary tour that surpassed all expectations. I'll cherish the memories and stories from this adventure for a lifetime.

Diane Horsman  

Fantastic tour, personable experiences

19-Oct-2021

My first tour with Traveltalk to Jordan was fantastic. Everything was very well planned, the itinerary was timed to perfection and jam packed with amazing experiences. The tour guide Issa went above and beyond to make everyone happy and have the best experience possible, taking us to local restaurants and telling us the best things to eat. Our bus broke down on the way to the Dead Sea and he dealt with it really quickly, and a replacement bus arrived in less than an hour. He treated us all like his friend rather than just a job which make the tour even more special. The hotels were fab and had everything that we needed, all I great locations to local attractions. I booked another tour but had to cancel due to Covid and Traveltalk have placed my deposit aside ready to use on the next trip. I can’t wait to book again with them.

Trustpilot
Eric Gunther (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 12 day...

12-Sep-2023

We did the 12 day Turkey tour with the Gullet option, and loved it! The price was super reasonable, Travel Talk was always extremely responsive whenever I reached out. Most importantly, we visited an amazing array of impressive historical sites, saw the profound and varied natural beauty of Turkey and enjoyed incredible experiences like hot air ballooning and paragliding. Mustafa was the best tour guide we have ever had. His knowledge and organizational skills were top notch, he helped with everything (even with arranging laundry services) and was hilarious as well. The food was tasty, the hotels were good and the boat trip was fun and relaxing with beautiful scenery and a lot of swimming. The cabins on the boat weren’t air conditioned and were pretty hot at night, so some people slept on deck where there were plenty of places with cushions where you could stretch out and get a good nights rest. I highly recommend this tour!!

Hazel Kuzu (Google Reviewer)  

The 9-day Turkey Essentials tour...

03-Dec-2023

The 9-day Turkey Essentials tour with Travel Talk Tours exceeded our expectations! The well-crafted itinerary showcased Turkey's best, complemented by excellent hotel choices. Mustafa, our guide, added depth with his rich knowledge, engaging storytelling and brilliant sense of humour. The seamless experience, from transportation, meals, accommodations, sightseeing and optional activities made this tour unforgettable. Highly recommended for those seeking a perfect blend of culture and comfort in Turkey.

Tronix4eva (Google Reviewer)  

Wow. 9 Day Essential Turkey...

21-Oct-2023

Wow. 9 Day Essential Turkey Tour with Mustafa from Travel Talk Tours. Absolutely exceeded all expectations. I am in love with Turkey! The sights, the places, the hotels, the food, the bus and the antics of our amazing guide was seriously fantastic. This was an unforgettable experience and I am so glad I stumbled across Travel Talk and chose them. Mustafa you made me laugh and made us all feel so safe and welcome.. best guide I've ever had. ❤️

BEN LAWN  

Mustafa is the key to a fantastic Essential Turkey tour

06-Dec-2021

My partner and I did the Essential Turkey tour in November/December 2021. We had a fantastic time, and can both only recommend Travel Talk and this tour. Mustafa Kurt, our incredible guide, is really who sets this tour apart from any competition. He conducts the majority of Travel Talk's Essential Turkey, so you may get lucky if you book. Mustafa is an extremely qualified tour guide, with an extraordinary tourism CV, who wholly commits to ensuring that those on his tour have the very best Turkey experience possible. The man goes well above and beyond, without even thinking twice. He is a natural leader, whilst also being a friend. He was hilarious to have around us, bringing all the laughs and very much aiding in bringing the group together. His knowledge of Turkey is second to none, and he never lets this or his jokes get stale. The minibus that we used was better than expected - modern and comfy. We also had two drivers, adding to safety and ability to cover the long distances required. The hotels on the tour do vary, but are generally good. Travel Talk were responsive during booking, and flexible when it came to us having to delay due to Covid.

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Dates & Availability

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Friday - Thursday

May 24, 2024 - Jun 06, 2024
$4286 $2501 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1714 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$71 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Thursday

Jun 07, 2024 - Jun 20, 2024
$4286 $2501 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1714 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$71 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Thursday

Jun 21, 2024 - Jul 04, 2024
$4286 $2501 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1714 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$71 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Thursday

Jul 19, 2024 - Aug 01, 2024
$4286 $2501 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1714 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$71 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Thursday

Aug 16, 2024 - Aug 29, 2024
$4286 $2501 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1714 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$71 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Thursday

Sep 20, 2024 - Oct 03, 2024
$4532 $2644 (USD)

Operator discount: -$1813 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$75 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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