Begin your journey south through Tennessee and Georgia to the Sunshine State of Florida. While en route, enjoy a welcome dinner and get to know your traveling companions. Meals: D, B Arrive in delightful St. Pete Beach, Florida, for ten days of sun-kissed fun and stay in the heart of St. Pete Beach, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intra-coastal Waterway, within walking distance to many restaurants, attractions and shops. There is a great combination of included things to do, optional attractions and free time starting with dinner. Meals: B, D Your first day in St. Pete Beach is free. For those who wish, an orientation tour of the St. Pete Beach area is offered. Get acquainted with your new home along with Madeira Beach, Indian Rocks Beach and Treasure Island. Today we venture east to visit Bok Tower Gardens. This National Historic Landmark featuring acres of ferns, palms, oaks and pines is highlighted by the 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower. We enjoy lunch before traveling to the Giraffe Ranch where you’ll experience first-hand, the lives of Giraffe and other exotic animals from the comfort of specially designed 4-wheel drive vehicles under the direction of an expert guide. Meal: L Today is another free day to enjoy the beach or shopping on your own. If you prefer, you may want to go to Orlando for the day. We will provide the transportation and you will have the opportunity to choose between one of the many Walt Disney World attractions here. Your Tour Manager will be happy to discuss your options with you. The choices are yours! Today, visit Tarpon Springs with its Greek sponge and fishing docks. Lunch at Hellas Greek Restaurant gives you a taste of the unique Greek culture of the area. Later, climb aboard your vessel for a narrated cruise in search of the many dolphins which inhabit the coastal waters. Meal: L Travel north today to Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. Here, experience the “true Florida.” Take a boat ride to the Park entrance and enjoy nature at its finest. Animals, birds, fish, manatees, alligators and more will come into view.

Enjoy lunch, at the Plantation Resort on Crystal River before embarking on a narrated boat cruise on the Crystal River with a naturalist guide. Make a stop at Heritage Village, a grouping of quaint shops, before returning to the hotel. Meal: L Today has been left free for you. If you wish, you could join an optional trip to Busch Gardens in Tampa where entertainment, rides and an interactive zoo await. We travel to Sarasota today for a visit to Cà d’Zan, the dazzling palatial mansion of John and Mable Ringling, built as a tribute to the American Dream, reflecting the splendor and romance of Italy. Described as “the last of the Gilded Age mansions” to be built in America, Cà d’Zan has 56 incredible rooms filled with art and original furnishings.

Later, you will stop at Der Dutchman Restaurant for a hearty Amish-style meal. Enjoy their Barn- Raising Dinner Buffet, bountiful Salad Bar and Amish pies and desserts.

Then, spend time in St. Armand’s Square located on the lushly landscaped island of Lido Key. Along with the superb exclusive shop, galleries, boutiques and restaurants, there is also the Circus Ring of Fame, a “sidewalk of circus stars.” Meal: L Another free day in beautiful St. Pete Beach. Tonight, set sail on the Calypso Queen for an evening dinner cruise on the sparkling of Clearwater Bay. The fresh salt air and soft gulf stream breezes make for a truly relaxing voyage. Meal: D Travel home with a special farewell dinner en route with your new-found friends. Meals: 2 B, 1 D