Book Adventures by Disney Now for 2012 Special Departures

The past year has seen families endorsing Adventures by Disney fully escorted vacations despite economic turmoil and lack of time. Notes Josh D'Amaro, VP, about the winning formula, "We are in the business of creating unforgettable, VIP hassle-free itineraries so guests can focus on discovering and exploring a new world and creating priceless vacation memories that last a lifetime."

That's why, after six years in operation, the tour company that Walt would have loved is spreading its wings to exciting new destinations and fine tuning the itineraries of some of its favorite routes.  Here's what they have to say about their new tours -

Adventures by Disney 2012 New Adventures:

"Greek Odyssey" Athens, Santorini and Crete– the adventure starts in Athens where Greek mythology comes to life through moonlight storytelling at the Parthenon and sporting games at the home of the modern Olympics, Panathinaiko Stadium. Discovery continues on the volcanic island of Santorini where kids go feet-first into Greek grape stomping while adults enjoy a wine tasting at Volcan winery. After sailing the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, families travel to Crete and are immersed in mountain culture with local expert-led lessons in Tsatziki cheese making and Greek dancing.

"Pyramids, Pharaohs & Ancient Treasures" Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, the Nile and Sharm El Sheikh – uncover an ancient world of pyramids, mummies and man-made marvels as this expedition kicks off with a camelback tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza and a Nile River cruise to Luxor. Families will be in awe of the architectural wonder of the Sphinx and experience the secrets of Tutankhamen's tomb in the Valley of the Kings with a Junior Adventurer scavenger hunt at the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Activities like papyrus making, traditional cooking, and hieroglyphic writing give guests a first-hand view of life in ancient Egypt.  

"Esprit de France" Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley– perfect for families looking to experience the arts, this itinerary features a drawing activity in Monet's Gardens, a visit to Château du Clos Luce, the last known residence of Leonardo da Vinci, and a private dinner at the Louvre in Paris. A true taste of the French countryside, adventurers learn of the art of brandy-making on the Normandy Cider Route; enjoy a picturesque country bike ride and spend the night in an authentic Château. Guests continue the adventure with visits to Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel monastery, Omaha Beach and a viewing of the Bayeux Tapestry.

Adventures by Disney has enhanced 2012 itineraries:

"Discovery Down Under" Australia and Tasmania – the action-packed Australian adventure will now include a visit to the island of Tasmania featuring a Eucalyptus forest zipline experience, an introduction to traditional cuisine at Kate's Berry Farm and Meadowbank Winery as well as a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to meet the infamous Tasmanian Devil.

"Grandiosos Galapagos" Galapagos Islands – Now families can spend more time discovering the flora and fauna of Darwin's famous islands with 7N aboard the Galapagos Explorer cruise ship. Guests will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel with sea lions and penguins and come face to face with giant tortoises.

"Cities of Knights and Lights" London and Paris – The classic European itinerary now features a trip to the British Countryside where guests can play British lawn games and receive royal treatment on a privately-guided tour of Windsor Castle.

More Adventures by Disney 2012 Itineraries:

Other Adventure by Disney destinations have included Italy (a Venice excursion pictured above), Ireland, countries of the Swiss Alps, China, South Africa, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, the mid-Atlantic states, and Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.  We've always liked the engaging experiences that the Disney cast members cook up for their guests.  Activities for families (and kids over about age 6-8) include panning for gold in Alaska, going on a jaunty Conestoga wagon ride in Glacier National Park, pretzel twisting and castle visiting in Germany, Tuscan pasta-making lessons and gondola rides in Italy, and zip-lining and whitewater rafting in Costa Rica.

All the tours are guided by experts and led by a Disney rep to maintain the highest quality. Typically, upon arrival to your selected destination, your Adventures by Disney representative will lead you to a reception with other families to bievenue, wilkommen and welcome you to the country. After that, it’s smooth sailing with a trip full of endless excitement, punctuated by delicious daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners all provided with the program. 

If this isn’t enticing enough, Disney’s pre-arranged day-by-day itineraries take all the pressure off guardians, making for a stress-free, fun-filled vacation… followed by another! Disney’s easy-to-use website provides trip details, answers to FAQ and trip tips such as what to pack, weather facts and travel documentation preparation. They even provide a few key phrases and words in the language of the country you’ll be visiting.

For more information and other trip itineraries, speak with a travel agent or visit Adventures by Disney (877/728-7282) way in advance of your planned vacation.  Please note that the Gateway Collection adventures program which offered lower priced tours to families will not be renewed for the 2012 season.