CNUF 55th Anniversary Tour | 2020

August 5 – 15, 2020 | 11 Days, 10 Nights

Kyiv – Chernivtsi - Carpathian Mountains - Lviv

Sightseeing | Workshops | Cultural Experiences | Zabavas and International Ukrainian Dance & Culture Festival

Day 1| Wednesday, August 5: Arrive in Kyiv (- / - / D)

Welcome to and its capital – Kyiv! This beautiful and historic city has played a key part in the past, present and future of this country. However, Kyiv is not just an old city of Golden Domes, exciting and historical museums and memorials. It’s also a cool, up-and-coming progressive city, fast paced in some aspects, as you would expect a capital to be, but in true Ukrainian style.

Upon arrival, you will be met by your Cobblestone Tour Leader at the airport (look for the Cobblestone sign with your name) and transfered to your hotel in the heart of the city.

After check-in and some free time to get settled in and rest after the flight (depending on your arrival time), we will take you on a brief city orientation, pointing out the nearest exchange offices, ATMs, shops, cafes, restaurants and sights.

This evening we will have our welcome dinner in one of our favorite restaurants with traditional Ukrainian food.

(Throughout the tour, you Cobblestone Tour Leader will coordinate all tour details and accompany you during all your included tours, activities and transfers. They will also be on call at all times in case you need any additional services, advice or assistance.)

Day 2| Thursday, August 6: Kyiv (B / - / D) After breakfast in the hotel we’ll take you on a guided walking city tour, to introduce you to Kyiv, it’s fascinating history, architecture and traditions. You will see iconic sites like St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral, the Golden Gates, and St. Sophia’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 10th century! Travellers throughout Ukraine and abroad come to this Pilgrimage destination to see the 1000-year-old frescoes and mosaics. We visit St. Michael’s Cathedral, where you will surely be impressed with its sky blue exterior and glittering golden domes, which add a stunning layer to the cityscape.

You will have some free time for lunch. Your Tour Leader will provide some tasty recommendations!

In the afternoon, we will take you for shopping to Andriyivsky Uzviz (Descent). It is the winding street that’s home to the city’s artisans, craftsmen and vendors. You will have the opportunity to explore all kinds of items in their stalls, from souvenir trinkets to authentic costumes, and antique Soviet times’ memorabilia!

In the evening, we have a special treat for you – a traditional Ukrainian Zabava (dinner & entertainment), where everyone will have a chance to learn some traditional central Ukrainian songs and dances from our special guests – Rozhanytsia Folk Band!

Day 3 | Friday, August 7: Kyiv (B / L/ -) This day will start with a guided tour of the Holodomor Museum. It is a center of commemoration of millions of Ukrainians killed during the Holodomor, a man-made famine in Soviet Ukraine in 1932 – 1933. We then will visit a real spiritual Mecca – the Kyiv Lavra Cave Monastery. Enjoy the walking guided tour there that also takes you down into the underground labyrinths filled with the ancient mummified monks – intriguing to say the least!

We will transfer you back downtown to have lunch and then some free time before checking out of our hotel.

Transfer to the train station, where you will travel like the locals on the overnight train to Chernivtsi. Train #118П Kyiv – Chernivtsi, depart at 8:05pm – arrive at 7:57am.

Accommodation: Number of Nights: Tours & Museums: ‘Khreshchatyk’ Hotel or similar 2 Nights Kyiv City Tour https://www.hotel-khreschatyk.kiev.ua/en Andriyivskyi Descent Kyiv Pechersk Lavra 1 overnight train Kyiv - Chernivtsi Holodomor Museum

Day 4 | Saturday, August 8: Chernivtsi (B / L/ -)

Welcome to the city of Chernivtsi – the Capital of Bukovyna! It was historically a cosmopolitan community, dubbed “Little Vienna” and “Jerusalem upon the Prut”. This cosmopolitan and multicultural city is currently twinned with seven other cities around the world, and is considered one of Ukraine’s most important educational and architectural sites.

Upon arrival in Chernivtsi, you will be transfered you to your hotel located in the heart of the city. Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the hotel, and take some free time to relax before we take you on a combined guided city tour (car and walking). You will visit the stunning Hogwarts-like University buildings, Theatre square and Bukovynian hall of fame, Turkish square, cathedrals and temples. You’ll see why many people fall in love with this beautiful city at first sight!

We will have a group lunch and then the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Explore this beautiful city by taking a walk along Olha Kobylyanska Street, a nice pedestrian street with many tasty cafes, street musicians and old buildings. As always, your Tour Leader will offer suggestions places to visit and restaurant suggestions for dinner.

Day 5 | Sunday, August 9: Chernivtsi – Kamianets-Podilskyi – Chernivtsi (B / -/ D) We’re taking you on a time travel today! Not literally, of course, but you’ll get to see how the local princes and rulers lived when you visit the fortress of Kamianets-Podilsky. After the castle visit you will have time for lunch in one of the local restaurants suggested by your Tour Leader.

Upon our return to Chernivtsi, we have a special treat arranged for you – a private performance of a local vocal folk ensemble! A very lively and memorable show. Then to complete this perfect day – a Bukovynian-style Zabava (dinner & performance).

Accommodation: Number of Nights: Highlights: Tours & Museums: ‘Bukovyna’ Hotel or 2 Nights Zabava Chernivtsi City + University Tour similar Folk band performance Kamianets-Podilsky Fortress http://bukovyna- hotel.com/en/

Day 6 | Monday, August 10: Chernivtsi –Tulova - Carpathian Mountains (B / L/ -)

The beautiful Carpathian Mountains are home to sweeping green forests, flowing rivers and breathtaking waterfalls – it’s hard not to feel at-one with nature when you breathe in the fresh mountain air…

This is the land of the , Boykos, Lemkos and other native ethnical groups whose colorful folk culture is laced through thin villages stretching along wide valley floors.

In the morning after breakfast – set off to the Carpathian Mountains, the land of Hutsuls, and our authentic trip experience comes through in perfect style with an authentic village visit! We arrive in the quaint village of Tulova – a visit to their church, a walk around the village, and a chance to visit with the locals. This visit culimnates with a Tulova-style Zabava (lunch & entertainment) where you will learn songs & dances from the villagers and be welcomed and embraced like family!

Afterwards, we’ll drive deeper into the mountains to arrive in Kosiv and check into our beautifully located mountain hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You may choose to relax at the sauna or swimming pool, spend some time with the locals, or just enjoy the stunning view of the mountains.

Day 7 | Tuesday, August 11: Carpathian Mountains (B / L/ -) After breakfast at the hotel, some free time, we head out to keep on exploring the beautiful region of Hutsulshchyna and all that it has to offer. We visit a uniquely located beautiful ancient wooden church and adjoining cemetery in the village of Pistyn. Don’t forget to ask what the pulley system over the river is used for! We then will enjoy the best of traditional Hutsul cuisine at a local restaurant overlooking the river in the village of Sheshory. Take a short walk to visit the picturesque local waterfalls and maybe even dip your feet in the water.

We return to your hotel and the you’ll have the remainder of the day to relax at the hotel. You may choose to participate an optional workshop to try your hand at woodcarving or pottery to create a souvenir to take home. (*These activities are optional and not included in the price of the tour and can be booked with your Tour Leader once on tour).

Day 8 | Wednesday, August 12: Carpathian Mountains (B / L/ -) After breakfast in the hotel, we will enjoy visiting the local Kosiv mini bazar, where local craftsmen skillfully produce , jewelry boxes, spoons, pottery, embroidery, leather goods, and many other goods. Make sure you leave enough room in your suitcases!

We will head up into the mountains and stop to see and learn how traditional local wool blankets, ‘lizhnyky’, are made, and the craftsmen will reveal the secrets behind the different designs and methods.

Continuing our drive high up into the mountains to the village of Bukovets. Along the way, your guide will tell you exciting stories and legends about this area that will make you fall in love with the Carpathians even more!

In Bukovets - another Cobblestone Freeway exclusive awaits! You’ll be cordially invited to a traditional Hutsul House. Get together with a local family, experience some local traditions, a delicious home cooked meal and a community that will welcome you like family. We’re sure you’ve never been to a Zabava like this!

We return to the hotel and the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

Accommodation: Number of Nights: Highlights: Tours & Museums: ‘Sokilske’ Hotel or similar 3 Nights Tulova-style Zabava & Hutsulshchyna http://sokilske.com.ua/en/ Kosiv mini market Museums Hutsul Wedding Pistyn Church Lizhnyky workshop

Day 9 | Thursday, August 13: Carpathian Mountains – Lviv (B / L/ -) Breakfast at the hotel and then it’s time to say goodbye to mesmerizing Carpathian Mountains and move on to another destination on our itinerary – the city of Lviv!

On our way, we will visit a quaint little town called , the centre of Pokuttia. We will visit the world’s only Pysanka (Easter ) Museum and the Hutsul Ethnography Museum – with a collection of costumes, tools and art that will help you imagine how our ancestors lived.

After lunch in Kolomyia, we will get back on the road and travel to Lviv. Upon arrival in Lviv, we will help you check-in to our centrally located hotel. Take some free time to rest before your guide will take you on a leisure walk providing a brief city orientation: pointing out the nearest exchange offices, ATM machines, souvenir stores, restaurant suggestions for you.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.

Day 10 | Friday, August 14: Lviv (B / L/ -)

Breakfast in the hotel followed by a city tour on a retro train.

Lviv is a centre of Galicia region and a city with a charming medieval atmosphere, delicious coffee, chocolate, beer and sincere, open-minded people! Mysterious and architecturally lovely, this UNESCO – listed city will definitely make you to fall in love with its beauty!

Following the train ride, and tasting some fragrant coffee in one of many coffee houses, we will continue exploring the city on a guided walking city tour to get you acquainted with the rich culture and history of the city. During the tour, we will also visit Lviv Opera House to admire its stunning interiors!

When the tour is over, you will have some free time to have lunch and explore the city on your own. You may also take advantage of shopping in the city: numerous souvenir stores, art galleries and an open-air craft markets offer a variety of artwork, embroidery, woodcarving and more!

In the evening, we will welcome you to the IUDCF Official Opening Ceremonies. IUDCF is an opportunity for Ukrainian dancers & performers from around the world to share their passion for Ukrainian dance with each other and others from all corners of the Earth. Every year we pick a renowned Ukrainian song and dance ensemble as our Host Group, which for years has been promoting the art of Ukrainian dance.

Enjoy a performance by the Festival Host Group during the Opening Ceremonies, get acquainted with other Festival Participants, and then – enjoy a free evening at leisure, have dinner in one of many unique restaurant or simply relax in your hotel.

Day 11 | Saturday, August 15: Lviv (B / -/ -) Breakfast at the hotel and some free time to stock up on souvenirs before we transfer you to the airport where, sadly, it’s time to say goodbye*

* OR extend your tour and stay in Lviv until the end of the IUDCFestival (see the optional Lviv add-on below)

Accommodation: Number of Nights: Highlights: Tours & Museums: ‘Premier Hotel Dnister’ or 2 Nights IUDCF Opening Pysanka Museum similar Ceremonies Hutsul Ethnography Museum https://dnister-hotel.phnr.com/en Lviv City Tour Lviv retro train tour Lviv Opera House

Optional Lviv ADD-ON | 4 days, 3 nights

Day 11 | Saturday, August 15: Lviv (B / -/ D) Breakfast at the hotel and a free morning at leisure.

In the afternoon, admire the International Ukrainian Dance and Culture Festival performances on the Rynok Square. Ukrainian dancers & performers from around the world will share their passion for Ukrainian dance with each other and others from all corners of the Earth. Get a table at one of the nearby restaurants, so you can enjoy the best of both – fiery performances and local treats.

In the evening, enjoy a standing buffet and partake in the International Ukrainian Dance and Culture Festival’s Zabava, a traditional Ukrainian party featuring music and dances from special guest performers and lots of delicious food!

Day 12 | Sunday, August 16: Lviv (B / - / -) In the morning - optional Church visit for those, who want to experience the spiritual side of Lviv!

In the afternoon, you are cordially invited to Shevchenkivskyi Hai Open-Air Museum for the IUDCF Concert program! This museum recreates traditional atmosphere and households of villages from different regions around Western Ukraine, and is also is our location for the second day of the Festival!

Performances from all participating performing groups await you! While the dancers are performing – enjoy the concert, explore the beautiful museum grounds, or choose the option of taking an artisanal master classes offered on location.

After the concert, we will return to our centrally located hotel for an evening at your own leisure.

Day 13 | Monday, August 17: Lviv (B / - / -) Breakfast at the hotel and a day at leisure.

In the evening, visit the IUDCF Gala Show and Closing Ceremonies in the famous Lviv Opera and Ballet Theatre! Admire the festival performances and observe the magnificent interiors of one of the most beautiful opera theatres in all Europe! The remainder of the evening at leisure.

Day 14 | Tuesday, August 18: Lviv (B / - / -) Breakfast at the hotel and some free time to stock up on souvenirs before we transfer you to the airport where, sadly, it’s time to say goodbye.

PRICING for Optional Lviv ADD-ON – coming soon!

On our Cobblestone Freeway Tour, enjoy:

Enjoy exclusive Folk dance/ Delicious, hand chosen local food, and more music performances inclusions than most other tour operators do.

You will be escorted by a full-time

Enjoy exclusive IUDCF Cobblestone Freeway Tour leader

Plus!

Every time you travel with us you get a stamp in your Cobblestone Freeway

passport.

Once your passport is full - you are entitled to a free trip with us!

Pre-Tour Options in Kyiv

Visit the Chernobyl Exclusion Be a Kozak for a day, and the Visit poet Taras Zone and abandoned Mamajeva Sloboda Kozak Shevchenko's Burial town of Prypiat. Village! Place in Kaniv.

Learn more about Ukraine’s Take a river cruise down the Visit Mezhyhiria - the complicated past at the WW2 Dnipro River. Museum of Corruption. Memorial and Museum.

Options while in Lviv

Wander the mysterious Lychakiv Visit the High Castle Hill to get scenic Visit the weapon museum located Cemetery. panoramic view of the city! in the former City Arsenal

Taste the best varieties of local Make chocolate candies at the Join mysterious Lviv Night Guard beer and learn its long history workshop at Lviv Handmade tour to hear eerie legends of the

in Lvivarnya Beer Museum Chocolate Factory city!

Contact us to arrange your tour add-on today! *not included in tour price.

THERE IS SO MUCH INCLUDED: NOT INCLUDED: Alcoholic Drinks SERVICES: Meals not listed in Itinerary Airport Transfers Flights Fully Escorted tour from beginning to end! Laundry & Telephone Services Entrance fees Tours & Attractions not included in the itinerary or marked Optional ACCOMMODATIONS: Tips for guides / drivers/ maids 9 nights in hand selected hotels Travel Insurance 1 overnight train ride Personal Expenses

MEALS: Breakfasts daily Lunch x 7 Dinner x 3

TOURS, TRANSPORTATION & GUIDES: Tours and Events included in the itinerary All land transportation Experienced guides throughout the tour Cobblestone Freeway t-shirt IUDCF Official Opening Ceremonies

HOTELS: City Hotel Check in Check out Nights Kyiv ‘Khreshchatyk’ Hotel or similar Aug 5 Aug 7 2 https://www.hotel-khreschatyk.kiev.ua/en

Kyiv-Chernivtsi Overnight train Aug 7 Aug 8 1 Chernivtsi ‘Bukovyna’ Hotel or similar Aug 8 Aug 10 2 http://bukovyna-hotel.com/en/ Kosiv ‘Sokilske’ Hotel or similar Aug 10 Aug 13 3 http://sokilske.com.ua/en/ Lviv ‘Premier Hotel Dnister’ or similar Aug 13 Aug 15 2 https://dnister-hotel.phnr.com/en

Moving Forward on the Cobblestone Freeway with your Custom Specialty Tour in 2 easy steps:

1. Review your Specialty Group Booking Agreement 2. Share this Itinerary with your contacts so they can start registering today!

ONLINE REGISTRATION LINK for CNUF 55th ANNIVERSARY TOUR

https://cobblestonefreewaytours.wufoo.com/forms/registration-cnuf-55- anniversary/

Register Now! Reserve your space on this tour today. Click on the link above and complete your online registration form. Upon completion of the form, you will be prompted to enter your Visa or MasterCard for your $500 USD deposit.

TOUR LAND PACKAGE PRICE:

$ 2144 USD per person The price is based on tour minimum of 30 -39 travellers, double occupancy*

$1974 USD per person The price is based on 40 - 49 travellers, double occupancy*

$1871 USD per person The price is based on 50 or more travellers, double occupancy*

Single Supplement $715 USD

NOTE: The more travellers that book, the more you save! The price will be adjusted to a lower price at time of final payment (90 days prior to travel date).

A portion of the proceeds of this tour will go towards supporting Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival.

* Price is based on registered bookings received by Cobblestone Freeway Tours (CFT) by your Group Deposit Date of February 11, 2020**

** We welcome booking requests made after your Group Deposit Date. Price and availability will need to be verified for those booking after this date and price may increase.

PAYMENTS & PAYMENT POLICY: PAYMENT SCHEDULE Please make payments to Cobblestone Freeway Tours Ltd. according to the following dates: DEPOSIT prior to February 11, 2020 of $500 USD per person done online with registration link. FINAL PAYMENT due by May 1, 2020

NOTE: All payments must be made in USD or CAD equivalent (based on the currency exchange rate on day of payment). Please make payments out to COBBLESTONE FREEWAY TOURS LTD in the form of Cheque, Money Order, Bank Draft. Credit card payments can be called into our office or made online at www.cobblestonefreeway.ca/payment or call our Edmonton office during business hours. (Visa or MasterCard)

LATE PAYMENT A Late Payment Fee will apply if payment is made more than 7 days after final payment due date. • Payments received 7 -30 days after final due date – $500 USD administration fee will apply • Payments received more than 30 days after final due date - the tour may be considered cancelled and cancellation terms will apply

TOUR ITINERARY CHANGE POLICY Changes in your custom tour made after first deposited passenger will need to be repriced and may result in price increase.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellation notice must be in writing to Cobblestone Freeway Tours Ltd. • Cancellation after deposit - $500 USD per person cancellation fee will apply. • Cancellation between 89 and 60 days prior to departure - cancellation fee of 50% of land tour cost will apply. • Cancellation between 59 and 30 days prior to departure - cancellation fee of 75% of land tour cost will apply. • Cancellation within 29 days of departure or no-show - 100% of the tour cost is non-refundable.

NOTE: While on tour, any unused services such as: transfers, sightseeing, meals, hotel accommodations, entrance fees, or any other services listed in the tour itinerary are non-refundable and non-transferable.

FLIGHTS: Flights are not included in our land prices. They may be purchased through a travel agency recommended by Cobblestone Freeway Tours, Ltd or a travel agency of your choice. You may decide to arrange for all passengers to travel together. Please contact us to receive more information.

TRAVEL INSURANCE NOTICE: Travel insurance is not included in the tour price. Cobblestone Freeway Tours Ltd. strongly recommends the purchase of a comprehensive travel insurance package, which covers health, luggage and trip cancellation. Please consult a licensed travel consultant to purchase your Travel Insurance. Please note that we cannot accept responsibility for any losses or expenses, which you or any member of your party may incur as a result of failing to secure adequate coverage.