An Opera Tour through MILAN, LAKE COMO and ZURICH

October 23 to November 1, 2008

World renowned opera houses, powerful performances and elegant European hotels are keynotes of this harmonious tour.  Our stay at the GRAND HOTEL et de MILAN sets the tone.  The world of classical music, opera and ballet throughout the last century bears witness to its venerated guests:  Guiseppe Verdi lived in suite 105 from 1872 where he alternated between Milan and his country home of Sant’ Agata. “Verdi was so revered by the Milanese that in his final days,” reports the Hotel, “ Via Manzoni  was covered with straw so that ‘The Maestro’ would not be disturbed by the noise.”  Enrico Caruso first arrived in 1902;  Ernest Hemingway in 1918, visiting many times thereafter; Maria Callas when performing at the opera from 1950-52; and whenever Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fontayne were in Milan, they stayed at the Grand Hotel.   Many other luminaries left their imprints here as well.  Attending a performance of Le Nozze di Figaro at the famed LA SCALA highlights our three night stay.  A scheduled visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie to view Leonardo da Vinci’s LAST SUPPER is another stunning inclusion.  Today, Milan is a fashion capital.  Each shop window features the latest styles and palettes. 

     Visiting VILLA D’ESTE in Italy’s most beautiful region follows.  The luxury of this world-famous resort provides a blissful respite.  Local sightseeing and the opportunity for individual pursuits add to the enjoyment of this sumptuous two night visit.

While traveling by train to Zurich, experience the true beauty of the alpine areas of northern Italy and Switzerland.   Mountain vistas abound. We have a first class seat! The HOTEL EDEN AU LAC hosts our three night stay in Zurich.  A short walk along the lake promenade to the ZURICH OPERA HOUSE adds “scenic” to “sensational.”  Here we are feted to a performance of Verdi's epic AIDA. The “Old Town” proves a delight to explore.  Cruising on Lake Zurich is a tranquil treat.

Penn operaphile, David Fox, provides lectures prior to performances and hosts historical and topical talks in each city.  Delightful dining and guided sightseeing further enhance our enjoyment.

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Land tour cost: $5,450.00 per person based on double occupancy
Single supplement:  $1,095.00
Airfare and schedules on request.

Please note: Only checks made payable to Circle Travel Service may be accepted as deposit and final payment.

PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
$1,000.00 deposit per person to secure your place on the tour.
Balance due by August 15, 2008.
Tour cost does not include airfare. Land cost rates are based on a minimum of 15 tour members.
Reservations are limited and accepted on a first-come first-served basis

CANCELLATIONS, CHANGES:  All cancellations are subject to an administrative fee of $500.00 per person plus any additional supplier cancellation charges.  Cancellations are completely non-refundable as of August 15, 2008.  Notification of cancellation must be in writing.

TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE IS STRONGLY ADVISED.

LIABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY:  Anne Bockol, Circle Travel Service, Inc. and the sponsor, the University of Pennsylvania, all of their respective agents, servants and employees shall not be responsible or liable in any way for loss, death, injury or damage to persons or property or incurred by any person in connection with this program or any part of it.  They act only as your agents in providing tour arrangements and assume no responsibility or liability in connection with the service of any motor coach, train, vessel, carriage, aircraft or any other transportation or other accommodations used in performance of the tour, or in the event of theft.  Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the passenger.  Should it become necessary or advisable, alterations may be made to scheduling.   Additional expense, if any, shall be borne by the passengers.  All prices quoted here are based on current fares and monetary exchange rates, and are subject to change.  All services are subject to the laws of the state or country in which those services are rendered.  Quoted tour prices include planning, handling and operational charges, and are quoted based on the current rate of exchange as of February 1, 2008.  In the event of a significant increase in foreign exchange rates or other unexpected increases, costs are subject to revision.

Print, complete and return the coupon below to:

Anne Bockol, Tour Director
Circle Travel Service, Inc.
341-C Conshohocken State Road
Gladwyne, PA 19035
(610) 896-7795
(610) 832-0309 fax
Travel@Bockol.com

Enclosed please find $1000.00 per person for _____ reservations for:

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