The South Caucasus: Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

Home , Duduk, Khor Virap, Tbilisi, Yerevan

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participation. request. Asigned releaseofliability/assumption ofriskagreementisrequired fortrip provided topassengers uponenrollmentand isavailabletoprospective travelersupon Affairs Council of PhiladelphiaandMIR forlossofproperty,injury, illnessordeathwillbe Responsibility: Detailswill besentuponreceiptCouncil. of your registration. Insurance: roommate; thesinglesupplement willapplyifnomatch isfound. Single Travelers:Wemakeeveryefforttomatchsingletravelerswhorequest a schedule of events andspeakers is subjectto change. is basedonaminimumof andthe exact instructed byMIR.Thisitinerary 8participants with thistour.Itisrecommendedthatyounotpurchaseinternational flightsuntil cancellation penaltyincurredbythepurchaseofnon-refundable ticketsinconnection Note: NeitherWorld AffairsCouncilof PhiladelphianorMIRacceptliabilityforanyairline the recoverablecostofunusedservicesandaccommodations berefunded,ifany. of thetourgrouporindividualparticipant,andsubject onlytotherequirementthat determined bytourstafftobeinthebestinterestofhealth, safety,orgeneralwelfare to withdrawfromatouratanytimehis/herownexpense, whensuchactionis to declineacceptanypersonasaparticipantintour, or torequireanyparticipant penalty, towithdrawthetourannounced(i.e.,cancelatour).MIRreservesright any reasonatall.World AffairsCouncilof PhiladelphiaandMIRreservetheright,without refund. Refundscannotbemadetopassengerswhodonotcompletethefulltourfor of theland-tourcostperperson;thosereceived30daysorfewer beforedeparture,no non-refundable deposit;thosereceived31to60daysbeforedeparture,forfeit 50% Cancellations received61ormoredaysbeforedeparture,forfeit the$500per-person Affairs Councilof Philadelphia andMIR,thefollowingcancellationchargeswillapply: Cancellations andRefunds:AllcancellationsmustbemadeinwritingtotheWorld July 13,2022.Finalpayment isaccepted bycheckorbanktransfer only. Finalpaymentforalllandandaircostsisdue60dayspriortodepartureon Philadelphia. payable toMIRCorporation-TrustorcreditcardinformationWorld AffairsCouncilof Reservations andPayments:Mailthecompletedregistrationformwithacheck essential to theenjoyment of thisprogram. Flexibility andthewillingness to accept localstandards of are amenitiesandservices group andstand for extended periodsof timeduringwalking tours andmuseumvisits. (with orwithouttheassistance of acane)over uneven terrain whilekeeping upwiththe full rewards of thisadventure, travelers must beableto walk atleast two milesaday walking andstair climbing required. Thetour isnotwheelchairaccessible. To reap the What toExpect:Thistripismoderately active dueto drivingdistances andtheextensive flight for thisprogram. MIRwill sendarecommended uponrequest. airitinerary Yerevan. Becauseof theglobalnature of ourmembersandpatrons, there isnogroup Air Arrangements:Program rates donotincludeinternational airfare to Baku/from baggage fees,visafees (excluding Azerbaijan),alcoholic beverages withincluded meals included intheitinerary•Personalitemssuchastelephonecalls,laundry,excess Corporation canassistwithreservations•TravelinsuranceMealsnotspecifiedas Not Included:International airfareto Baku/from Yerevan. OurtouroperatorMIR andprocessing,support includingfees •Comprehensivepre-departurepacket drivers, Tour Manager andrestaurant staff during includedmeals•Azerbaijanvisa •Baggagethroughout theitinerary handlingatthehotels; gratuities to localguides, entrance fees•English-speakingguides inBaku andArmenia;MIRTour Manager itinerary by privatevehicles •Specialculturaleventsandextensivesightseeing,including start/end days•Alloverland transportationper passengers arriving/departingonscheduled D=dinner) •Arrival/departuretransfersfor • Mealsperitinerary(B=breakfast,L=lunch, Included: (per personbasedondoubleoccupancy) All accommodation, hotel taxes Allaccommodation,hoteltaxes Trip cancellation/interruption insurance isavailable from World Affairs Adetailedstatementoflimitations andexclusionsofliabilityWorld

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For more information, contact World Affairs Council at (800) 942-5004 ext. 209 or 215-561-4700, [email protected] or visit www.wacphila.org Azerbaijan, Georgia andArmenia Baku The South Caucasus: • September 11-22, 2022 Tbilisi • Tsinandali • Yerevan

World Affairs Council of Philadelphia 800-942-5004 / 215-561-4700 Dear Council Travelers, Daily Itinerary [email protected] / www.wacphila.org From the mists of the past to the 21st-century geopolitical spotlight, the Sep 10-11 Depart USA • Arrive Baku, Azerbaijan Southern Caucasus countries of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia have Depart the USA en route to Azerbaijan. Arrive in Baku and transfer to the hotel, where always figured prominently. the remainder of the evening is at your lesiure. In flight; Hilton Baku Hotel or similar In Azerbaijan, medieval buildings cozy up to dazzling high rises and avant-garde architecture. Rugged mountains, sprawling vineyards, and sumptuous spreads welcome visitors to Georgia, the birthplace of wine. Sep 12 Baku And in the shadow of biblical Mt. Ararat, thousands of carved stone After orientation, explore Baku’s Old Town district, a beautifully preserved medieval crosses, or khachkars, dot the landscape, a reminder of the strong faith UNESCO Heritage Site. Stroll through Martyr’s Lane, a memorial park perched that has shaped Armenia. above the bay with sweeping views of the city and the iconic Flame Towers, a nod to The historical importance of these countries is matched only by their Azerbaijan’s Zoroastrian history. Discover the colorful history of Azeri carpet weaving strategic importance today. The oil-rich Caspian Sea, Georgia’s dispute at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. Conclude the day with a private reception with Russia and the mutual distrust between Armenia, Azerbaijan, at the Nobel Brothers’ former home, Villa Petrolea, followed by a welcome dinner and a and Turkey are some hot button issues that have complex and ancient roots. Local speakers throughout will shed a modern light on untangling traditional mugham musical performance. Hilton Baku Hotel or similar (B, L, D) these historical roots. Explore these beautiful countries, sheltered and challenged by the steep terrain of the Caucasus Mountains, and by their Sep 13 Baku own interconnectedness. Start the day with a visit to Gobustan, a UNESCO-listed park forty miles outside of L: An aerial view of Tbilisi, Georgia. R: Khor Virap monastery, on the border of Armenia and Turkey Make your reservation today by calling (800) 942-5004 or (215) 561-4700, Baku, where quarry workers discovered ancient petroglyphs dating back 20,000 years. An or email [email protected]. excellent modern museum adds to the experience. Return to Baku for lunch at a local Sep 18 Tsinandali • drive to Tbilisi restaurant.This afternoon we will request a U.S. Embassy briefing. Hilton Baku Hotel or Tour the Alexander Chachavadze House Museum, the home of the 19th-century similar (B, L) hero and poet, who also established the country’s first winery. Depart for Tbilisi, arriving in time for lunch at a local restaurant. Explore the Dry Bridge Market, Sep 14 Baku • fly to Tbilisi, Georgia a veritable trove of trinkets and treasures. Ride the funicular up the side of Mt. Tour the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, designed by Iraqi-British architect, Ms. Zaha Mtatsminda for dinner and sweeping views of the city below. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or Hadid, with its sweeping curves and extensive art exhibits, followed by a visit to the similar (B, L, D) Zoroastrian Fire Temple at Atashgah, originally built over a burning natural gas vent by Hindi-speaking Indians in the 1800s. As early as the 6th century, Zoroastrians lived on Sep 19 Tbilisi • drive to Yerevan, Armenia the peninsula and might have worshipped here. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before Prepare for a long drive with an early breakfast. After crossing the border into taking an evening flight to Tbilisi and transferring to the hotel. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or Armenia, stop at UNESCO-listed Haghbat Monastery, founded over a thousand similar (B, L, D) years ago. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Sevan, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. Nestled nearby is Sevan Monastery, which sat on an island until Sep 15 Tbilisi lake levels dropped, exposing a peninsula. After arriving in Yerevan, dinner is at your Georgia’s strip of central lowlands have long been an important link between East and leisure. Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L) West. Tbilisi sits at the mouth of this passageway, in the Mtkvari River valley. Begin the day with a tour of the old town district; stop at some of the city’s landmark churches and Sep 20 Yerevan Program Highlights & Special Meetings other historical buildings, including the famous sulfur baths, the natural hot springs from Begin at Republic Square, Yerevan’s central square, before exploring the Cascade • Explore the history and heritage of Azeri carpet weaving at the Azerbaijan which the city derives its name. Browse the collection of artifacts at the Simon Janashia Complex and the Mother Armenia statue in Victory Park, followed by a visit to National Carpet Museum. Museum of Georgia in the afternoon. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or similar (B, L, D) the Armenian Genocide Memorial, built in memory of the lives lost during the last • Visit Gobustan, the UNESCO-listed Heritage Site that is home to bubbling Ottoman government. Have tea and sweets with a master woodwind craftsman mud volcanoes and prehistoric petroglyphs depicting scenes of life in Sep 16 Tbilisi • drive to Tsinandali via Telavi who makes duduks, an instrument similar to a clarinet. Conclude your day with a ancient Azerbaijan. In the morning, visit the U.S. Embassy before departing Tbilisi. Enjoy lunch in Telavi at stroll through Vernisage Art Park for shopping and people-watching. Tufenkian Historic • Learn to create churchkela, a traditional Georgian confection made from the farm of an award-winning chef and cheesemaker. Learn how to make churchkela, a Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L, D) nuts, fruit juice, flour, and sugar. signature Georgian confection. Stop at Gremi Fortress, the 16th-century capital of the Sep 21 Yerevan Khakheti region. Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel (B, L) • Soak in the rich history of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, nominated for Visit Khor Virap Monastery, set against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount UNESCO recognition. Ararat. Return to Yerevan to tour the Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum and attend Sep 17 Tsinandali • day trip to Signagi • Savor local food and wine at an authentic Georgian table, accompanied a performance of the Nubar Folk Song Ensemble. Attend a U.S. Embassy briefing by traditional polyphonic singing. Begin the day with a walking tour of Signagi, located in the heart of Georgia’s wine- this afternoon. In the evening, toast the end of your journey with new friends at a growing region about 40 miles from Tsinandali. Explore Bodbe Nunnery where St. • Share tea with master craftsman Karen Hakobyan, and learn about the farewell dinner. Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L, D) UNESCO-listed duduk, an Armenian clarinet-like instrument. Nino, the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia, is buried. Stroll through Tibaani Vineyards and learn about ancient winemaking traditions before settling in to experience Sep 22 Depart Yerevan • Enjoy a performance of traditional Armenian song by the internationally acclaimed Nubar Folk Song Ensemble, followed by a Q&A. the delights of a traditional Georgian Table led by a tamada, or toastmaster, who tells After breakfast, flight times permitting, transfer to the airport for international stories and jokes in addition to toasts. The feast ends with a local ensemble performing departures. (B) • Attend briefings at the US Embassy in the capital cities of Baku, Tbilisi, examples of the country’s unique style of polyphonic singing. The remainder of the day is and Yerevan, and participate in lectures and discussions. at your leisure. Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel (B, L) World Affairs Council of Philadelphia 800-942-5004 / 215-561-4700 Dear Council Travelers, Daily Itinerary [email protected] / www.wacphila.org From the mists of the past to the 21st-century geopolitical spotlight, the Sep 10-11 Depart USA • Arrive Baku, Azerbaijan Southern Caucasus countries of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia have Depart the USA en route to Azerbaijan. Arrive in Baku and transfer to the hotel, where always figured prominently. the remainder of the evening is at your lesiure. In flight; Hilton Baku Hotel or similar In Azerbaijan, medieval buildings cozy up to dazzling high rises and avant-garde architecture. Rugged mountains, sprawling vineyards, and sumptuous spreads welcome visitors to Georgia, the birthplace of wine. Sep 12 Baku And in the shadow of biblical Mt. Ararat, thousands of carved stone After orientation, explore Baku’s Old Town district, a beautifully preserved medieval crosses, or khachkars, dot the landscape, a reminder of the strong faith UNESCO Heritage Site. Stroll through Martyr’s Lane, a memorial park perched that has shaped Armenia. above the bay with sweeping views of the city and the iconic Flame Towers, a nod to The historical importance of these countries is matched only by their Azerbaijan’s Zoroastrian history. Discover the colorful history of Azeri carpet weaving strategic importance today. The oil-rich Caspian Sea, Georgia’s dispute at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. Conclude the day with a private reception with Russia and the mutual distrust between Armenia, Azerbaijan, at the Nobel Brothers’ former home, Villa Petrolea, followed by a welcome dinner and a and Turkey are some hot button issues that have complex and ancient roots. Local speakers throughout will shed a modern light on untangling traditional mugham musical performance. Hilton Baku Hotel or similar (B, L, D) these historical roots. Explore these beautiful countries, sheltered and challenged by the steep terrain of the Caucasus Mountains, and by their Sep 13 Baku own interconnectedness. Start the day with a visit to Gobustan, a UNESCO-listed park forty miles outside of L: An aerial view of Tbilisi, Georgia. R: Khor Virap monastery, on the border of Armenia and Turkey Make your reservation today by calling (800) 942-5004 or (215) 561-4700, Baku, where quarry workers discovered ancient petroglyphs dating back 20,000 years. An or email [email protected]. excellent modern museum adds to the experience. Return to Baku for lunch at a local Sep 18 Tsinandali • drive to Tbilisi restaurant.This afternoon we will request a U.S. Embassy briefing. Hilton Baku Hotel or Tour the Alexander Chachavadze House Museum, the home of the 19th-century similar (B, L) hero and poet, who also established the country’s first winery. Depart for Tbilisi, arriving in time for lunch at a local restaurant. Explore the Dry Bridge Market, Sep 14 Baku • fly to Tbilisi, Georgia a veritable trove of trinkets and treasures. Ride the funicular up the side of Mt. Tour the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, designed by Iraqi-British architect, Ms. Zaha Mtatsminda for dinner and sweeping views of the city below. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or Hadid, with its sweeping curves and extensive art exhibits, followed by a visit to the similar (B, L, D) Zoroastrian Fire Temple at Atashgah, originally built over a burning natural gas vent by Hindi-speaking Indians in the 1800s. As early as the 6th century, Zoroastrians lived on Sep 19 Tbilisi • drive to Yerevan, Armenia the peninsula and might have worshipped here. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before Prepare for a long drive with an early breakfast. After crossing the border into taking an evening flight to Tbilisi and transferring to the hotel. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or Armenia, stop at UNESCO-listed Haghbat Monastery, founded over a thousand similar (B, L, D) years ago. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Sevan, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. Nestled nearby is Sevan Monastery, which sat on an island until Sep 15 Tbilisi lake levels dropped, exposing a peninsula. After arriving in Yerevan, dinner is at your Georgia’s strip of central lowlands have long been an important link between East and leisure. Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L) West. Tbilisi sits at the mouth of this passageway, in the Mtkvari River valley. Begin the day with a tour of the old town district; stop at some of the city’s landmark churches and Sep 20 Yerevan Program Highlights & Special Meetings other historical buildings, including the famous sulfur baths, the natural hot springs from Begin at Republic Square, Yerevan’s central square, before exploring the Cascade • Explore the history and heritage of Azeri carpet weaving at the Azerbaijan which the city derives its name. Browse the collection of artifacts at the Simon Janashia Complex and the Mother Armenia statue in Victory Park, followed by a visit to National Carpet Museum. Museum of Georgia in the afternoon. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or similar (B, L, D) the Armenian Genocide Memorial, built in memory of the lives lost during the last • Visit Gobustan, the UNESCO-listed Heritage Site that is home to bubbling Ottoman government. Have tea and sweets with a master woodwind craftsman mud volcanoes and prehistoric petroglyphs depicting scenes of life in Sep 16 Tbilisi • drive to Tsinandali via Telavi who makes duduks, an instrument similar to a clarinet. Conclude your day with a ancient Azerbaijan. In the morning, visit the U.S. Embassy before departing Tbilisi. Enjoy lunch in Telavi at stroll through Vernisage Art Park for shopping and people-watching. Tufenkian Historic • Learn to create churchkela, a traditional Georgian confection made from the farm of an award-winning chef and cheesemaker. Learn how to make churchkela, a Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L, D) nuts, fruit juice, flour, and sugar. signature Georgian confection. Stop at Gremi Fortress, the 16th-century capital of the Sep 21 Yerevan Khakheti region. Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel (B, L) • Soak in the rich history of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, nominated for Visit Khor Virap Monastery, set against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount UNESCO recognition. Ararat. Return to Yerevan to tour the Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum and attend Sep 17 Tsinandali • day trip to Signagi • Savor local food and wine at an authentic Georgian table, accompanied a performance of the Nubar Folk Song Ensemble. Attend a U.S. Embassy briefing by traditional polyphonic singing. Begin the day with a walking tour of Signagi, located in the heart of Georgia’s wine- this afternoon. In the evening, toast the end of your journey with new friends at a growing region about 40 miles from Tsinandali. Explore Bodbe Nunnery where St. • Share tea with master craftsman Karen Hakobyan, and learn about the farewell dinner. Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L, D) UNESCO-listed duduk, an Armenian clarinet-like instrument. Nino, the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia, is buried. Stroll through Tibaani Vineyards and learn about ancient winemaking traditions before settling in to experience Sep 22 Depart Yerevan • Enjoy a performance of traditional Armenian song by the internationally acclaimed Nubar Folk Song Ensemble, followed by a Q&A. the delights of a traditional Georgian Table led by a tamada, or toastmaster, who tells After breakfast, flight times permitting, transfer to the airport for international stories and jokes in addition to toasts. The feast ends with a local ensemble performing departures. (B) • Attend briefings at the US Embassy in the capital cities of Baku, Tbilisi, examples of the country’s unique style of polyphonic singing. The remainder of the day is and Yerevan, and participate in lectures and discussions. at your leisure. Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel (B, L) World Affairs Council of Philadelphia 800-942-5004 / 215-561-4700 Dear Council Travelers, Daily Itinerary [email protected] / www.wacphila.org From the mists of the past to the 21st-century geopolitical spotlight, the Sep 10-11 Depart USA • Arrive Baku, Azerbaijan Southern Caucasus countries of Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia have Depart the USA en route to Azerbaijan. Arrive in Baku and transfer to the hotel, where always figured prominently. the remainder of the evening is at your lesiure. In flight; Hilton Baku Hotel or similar In Azerbaijan, medieval buildings cozy up to dazzling high rises and avant-garde architecture. Rugged mountains, sprawling vineyards, and sumptuous spreads welcome visitors to Georgia, the birthplace of wine. Sep 12 Baku And in the shadow of biblical Mt. Ararat, thousands of carved stone After orientation, explore Baku’s Old Town district, a beautifully preserved medieval crosses, or khachkars, dot the landscape, a reminder of the strong faith UNESCO Heritage Site. Stroll through Martyr’s Lane, a memorial park perched that has shaped Armenia. above the bay with sweeping views of the city and the iconic Flame Towers, a nod to The historical importance of these countries is matched only by their Azerbaijan’s Zoroastrian history. Discover the colorful history of Azeri carpet weaving strategic importance today. The oil-rich Caspian Sea, Georgia’s dispute at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. Conclude the day with a private reception with Russia and the mutual distrust between Armenia, Azerbaijan, at the Nobel Brothers’ former home, Villa Petrolea, followed by a welcome dinner and a and Turkey are some hot button issues that have complex and ancient roots. Local speakers throughout will shed a modern light on untangling traditional mugham musical performance. Hilton Baku Hotel or similar (B, L, D) these historical roots. Explore these beautiful countries, sheltered and challenged by the steep terrain of the Caucasus Mountains, and by their Sep 13 Baku own interconnectedness. Start the day with a visit to Gobustan, a UNESCO-listed park forty miles outside of L: An aerial view of Tbilisi, Georgia. R: Khor Virap monastery, on the border of Armenia and Turkey Make your reservation today by calling (800) 942-5004 or (215) 561-4700, Baku, where quarry workers discovered ancient petroglyphs dating back 20,000 years. An or email [email protected]. excellent modern museum adds to the experience. Return to Baku for lunch at a local Sep 18 Tsinandali • drive to Tbilisi restaurant.This afternoon we will request a U.S. Embassy briefing. Hilton Baku Hotel or Tour the Alexander Chachavadze House Museum, the home of the 19th-century similar (B, L) hero and poet, who also established the country’s first winery. Depart for Tbilisi, arriving in time for lunch at a local restaurant. Explore the Dry Bridge Market, Sep 14 Baku • fly to Tbilisi, Georgia a veritable trove of trinkets and treasures. Ride the funicular up the side of Mt. Tour the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, designed by Iraqi-British architect, Ms. Zaha Mtatsminda for dinner and sweeping views of the city below. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or Hadid, with its sweeping curves and extensive art exhibits, followed by a visit to the similar (B, L, D) Zoroastrian Fire Temple at Atashgah, originally built over a burning natural gas vent by Hindi-speaking Indians in the 1800s. As early as the 6th century, Zoroastrians lived on Sep 19 Tbilisi • drive to Yerevan, Armenia the peninsula and might have worshipped here. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before Prepare for a long drive with an early breakfast. After crossing the border into taking an evening flight to Tbilisi and transferring to the hotel. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or Armenia, stop at UNESCO-listed Haghbat Monastery, founded over a thousand similar (B, L, D) years ago. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Sevan, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. Nestled nearby is Sevan Monastery, which sat on an island until Sep 15 Tbilisi lake levels dropped, exposing a peninsula. After arriving in Yerevan, dinner is at your Georgia’s strip of central lowlands have long been an important link between East and leisure. Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L) West. Tbilisi sits at the mouth of this passageway, in the Mtkvari River valley. Begin the day with a tour of the old town district; stop at some of the city’s landmark churches and Sep 20 Yerevan Program Highlights & Special Meetings other historical buildings, including the famous sulfur baths, the natural hot springs from Begin at Republic Square, Yerevan’s central square, before exploring the Cascade • Explore the history and heritage of Azeri carpet weaving at the Azerbaijan which the city derives its name. Browse the collection of artifacts at the Simon Janashia Complex and the Mother Armenia statue in Victory Park, followed by a visit to National Carpet Museum. Museum of Georgia in the afternoon. Tbilisi Marriott Hotel or similar (B, L, D) the Armenian Genocide Memorial, built in memory of the lives lost during the last • Visit Gobustan, the UNESCO-listed Heritage Site that is home to bubbling Ottoman government. Have tea and sweets with a master woodwind craftsman mud volcanoes and prehistoric petroglyphs depicting scenes of life in Sep 16 Tbilisi • drive to Tsinandali via Telavi who makes duduks, an instrument similar to a clarinet. Conclude your day with a ancient Azerbaijan. In the morning, visit the U.S. Embassy before departing Tbilisi. Enjoy lunch in Telavi at stroll through Vernisage Art Park for shopping and people-watching. Tufenkian Historic • Learn to create churchkela, a traditional Georgian confection made from the farm of an award-winning chef and cheesemaker. Learn how to make churchkela, a Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L, D) nuts, fruit juice, flour, and sugar. signature Georgian confection. Stop at Gremi Fortress, the 16th-century capital of the Sep 21 Yerevan Khakheti region. Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel (B, L) • Soak in the rich history of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, nominated for Visit Khor Virap Monastery, set against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount UNESCO recognition. Ararat. Return to Yerevan to tour the Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum and attend Sep 17 Tsinandali • day trip to Signagi • Savor local food and wine at an authentic Georgian table, accompanied a performance of the Nubar Folk Song Ensemble. Attend a U.S. Embassy briefing by traditional polyphonic singing. Begin the day with a walking tour of Signagi, located in the heart of Georgia’s wine- this afternoon. In the evening, toast the end of your journey with new friends at a growing region about 40 miles from Tsinandali. Explore Bodbe Nunnery where St. • Share tea with master craftsman Karen Hakobyan, and learn about the farewell dinner. Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel or similar (B, L, D) UNESCO-listed duduk, an Armenian clarinet-like instrument. Nino, the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia, is buried. Stroll through Tibaani Vineyards and learn about ancient winemaking traditions before settling in to experience Sep 22 Depart Yerevan • Enjoy a performance of traditional Armenian song by the internationally acclaimed Nubar Folk Song Ensemble, followed by a Q&A. the delights of a traditional Georgian Table led by a tamada, or toastmaster, who tells After breakfast, flight times permitting, transfer to the airport for international stories and jokes in addition to toasts. The feast ends with a local ensemble performing departures. (B) • Attend briefings at the US Embassy in the capital cities of Baku, Tbilisi, examples of the country’s unique style of polyphonic singing. The remainder of the day is and Yerevan, and participate in lectures and discussions. at your leisure. Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel (B, L) Land Program $6,995 Rate: Single Supplement: $1,190

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