Country Roads of the Deep South a Women-Only tour
Country Roads of the Deep South a Women-Only tour
Country Roads of the Deep South a Women-Only tour
12 Days Starting in Nashville (TN) and ending in New Orleans
Visiting: Nashville, Memphis, Greenwood, Natchez, Lafayette, New Orleans
Tour operator:
Tour code:
XASTHM20
Specialist Group:
Women Only
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Travel with a small group as you delve into country music and indulge in New Orlean’s cuisine. Fall in love with the Deep South during this 12-day women-only tour. Let the lights and music of Nashville wash over you as you walk down Broadway. Take a guided tour of Studio B, Nashville's oldest remaining recording studio. Head to the Country Music Hall of Fame to meet a songwriter who shares her insights. In Memphis, enjoy A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience over a Courageous Women Fighting in Women’s Rights, Civil Rights & Justice for All tour and a private tour of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Get the chance to explore the mansion which was the private retreat of the King of Rock 'n Roll on your own. Embrace Cajun Country taking a crawfish farm tour, where a Local Expert will help you catch your lunch. In New Orleans walk the city with a Local Expert, who will guide you through its vibrant art scene and unique architecture. Then end your trip with a bang with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Mardi Gras World and a chef-led cooking class.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Nashville
Location: Nashville
Accommodation: Hotel, The Banker's Alley
Accommodation Name: The Banker's Alley Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Meals Included: Dinner, with Wine
Welcome to Nashville, the capital of Tennessee and the USA’s glittering centre stage. From the Everly Brothers' “Bye Bye Love" to Roy Orbison’s “Oh! Pretty Woman" the streets are paved with talent. Relax and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and mingling with guests at 18:00 followed by a Welcome Dinner with wine.
Day 2: Take Centre Stage In Nashville
Location: Nashville
Accommodation: The Banker's Alley Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Banker's Alley Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with an orientation tour discovering the insights of Music City. Visit Riverfront Park, Tennessee State Capitol and 132-acre Centennial State Park, where you'll encounter an exact replica of the Parthenon. Pass by the city's lively honky-tonks and street performers on Broadway. Enjoy a guided tour of historic RCA Studio B, Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio. With over 35,000 songs recorded here, Studio B became known as the cradle of the Nashville Sound in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Hear about legendary recording sessions and view original instruments used on hit records for iconic artists such as Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and even more recently Martina McBride and Carrie Underwood. On this guided tour, hear the fascinating stories behind the legendary recordings and view some of the original instruments used in producing over 1,000 hit records. Continue to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum for a self-guided tour and visit with a songwriter to learn about her musical journey and local insights. Tonight, head to the famous Grand Ole Opry, the world-renowned country music stage and longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history for an evening of country fun and timeless melodies.
Day 3: Choose Your Nashville Exploration
Location: Nashville
Accommodation: The Banker's Alley Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Banker's Alley Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Make a stop at the Nashville Farmer’s Market to explore its artisanal crafts and produce. You decide how to discover Nashville this afternoon with Insight Choice. Choose to visit Nelson’s Green Brier, a local Tennessee distillery and home of the Original Tennessee Whiskey, for a guided tour of the distillery and tasting of the product. Or join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a visit to the National Museum of African American Music, the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced and inspired by African Americans. This is for music lovers of all generations and inspires, educates and transforms your appreciation of music while celebrating the central role African Americans play in the American soundtrack.
Day 4: Heading Back Home To Memphis
Location: Nashville, Memphis
Accommodation: The Guest House at Graceland, Memphis.
Accommodation Name: The Guest House at Graceland
Meals Included: Breakfast
Whether it’s your first or a return to the vibrant city of Memphis, you’ll be drawn in by the lively melodies coming from Beale Street, a melting pot of delta blues, jazz, rock 'n' roll, R&B and gospel music. Spend the morning on a sightseeing tour of the city passing the Memphis Pyramid and the historic Peabody Hotel. A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience awaits over a Courageous Women Fighting in Women’s Rights, Civil Rights & Justice for All tour through the city. End your day by joining another MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a private evening at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is part of the Soulsville Foundation, which aims to prepare young adults for life success and inspire future artists.
Day 5: A Day Dedicated To The King
Location: Memphis
Accommodation: The Guest House at Graceland, Memphis.
Accommodation Name: The Guest House at Graceland
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
This morning it's off to Graceland, where you will get to explore the mansion, the private retreat of the King of Rock 'n Roll, where he went for a reprise when not on the stage or in the movies. The tour of Graceland Mansion includes the living room and the famous Jungle Room. Visit the Entertainer Career Museum with hundreds of artefacts and photos from significant events in Elvis’ life as well as the Presley Motors Automobile Museum. Then continue onto Sun Studios for an authentic guided tour led by a local musician. Learn all about the recording studio where Elvis got his start along with so many of the greatest and therefore known as "The Birthplace of Rock'n'roll." Dinner this evening will be served at The Beauty Shop, a former parlour turned whimsical New American eatery where Elvis’ ex-wife, Priscilla, was said to get her hair done.
Day 6: Memphis To Greenwood
Location: Memphis, Greenwood
Accommodation: The Alluvian Greenwood.
Accommodation Name: The Alluvian, Greenwood
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine
Travel through the Mississippi Delta down the Mississippi Blues Trail, a route that tells the stories of businessmen and women. Your Travel Director will give you background information on Greenwood’s significance in the Civil Rights Movement, being a centre for protests and voter registration struggles from 1962 to 1965. Head to the Viking Cooking School, for a Hot Tamales cooking class where we learn how it became a regional specialty. Later dine on a mouthwatering dinner at James Beard Award Finalist restaurant that features southern inspired dishes including local produce of the area.
Day 7: Moving On To Natchez
Location: Greenwood, Natchez
Accommodation: Hotel, Natchez Grand Natchez
Accommodation Name: Natchez Grand Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Learn more about Southern history and hospitality as you head to Natchez. Tour the historic antebellum mansions and discover the preservation efforts of later generations to tell the story of African Americans through the decades, understanding that slavery and cotton allowed plantation owners to build these mansions. Test your mixologist skills as you concoct a traditional Southern cocktail, the Mint Julep. Minty, cooling and with a touch of sweetness, you're sure to learn a few party tricks to bring back home with you. Arrive at your hotel where you will enjoy an evening to yourself. Ask your Travel Director for restaurant suggestions and discover one of the wonderful options in town.
Day 8: Natchez To Lafayette
Location: Natchez, Lafayette
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette.
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette
Meals Included: Breakfast
Move on to Lafayette for a taste of the Cajun and Creole Countryside. Get ready for a boat tour of a lifetime through moss-draped cypress trees, where graceful egrets perch just out of the reach of lingering alligators. While on the excursion, you'll explore the diverse natural beauty and rich ecological systems of America's largest and most mysterious swamp ecosystem, the Atchafalaya Basin Swamp. A Native Cajun tour guide will explain from personal experience what it is like to live on a houseboat or survive off the swamp, while pointing out the abundant plants of the area and getting you up close and personal with the wildlife.
Day 9: Lafayette For Foodies
Location: Lafayette
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette.
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start the day with a crawfish farm tour just outside the city. You will be joined by a Local Expert who will help you catch your lunch the old-fashioned way, using hand nets. You’ll be taught how to prepare a traditional boil, before sitting down to enjoy your authentic meal. If crawfish are out of season, you'll take part in a boil experience with seasonal seafood (alternative will be provided for guests that don't eat Seafood). Then it’s onto the Acadian Cultural Center to learn more about the people, music, and sounds that give Lafayette its distinct and charming character. The Acadian Cultural Center tells stories of the origins, migration, settlement, and contemporary culture of the Acadians (Cajuns).
Day 10: Welcome To The Big Easy
Location: Lafayette, New Orleans
Accommodation: New Orleans Marriott, New Orleans
Accommodation Name: New Orleans Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
New Orleans is a lively and dynamic city, known for its vibrant culture and electric jazz festivals. On the way down south, take a spicy stop at the Tabasco® Factory for a self-guided tour and discover how the world-famous red hot pepper sauce is made. A family recipe - TABASCO® Brand products are made by McIlhenny Company, founded by Edmund McIlhenny in 1868 on Avery Island, Louisiana. Continue your culinary journey at the New Orleans School of Cooking for lunch and a chef-led cooking demonstration highlighting the flavours of New Orleans.
Day 11: Festivities In New Orleans Relaxed Start
Location: New Orleans
Accommodation: New Orleans Marriott, New Orleans
Accommodation Name: New Orleans Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Your Great Women of the Mississippi River Delta will find you experiencing architecture, heritage and art shaped by a range of female influences. Continue getting to know the city with a Local Expert as you delve deeper into each neighborhood's unique architecture and explore the vibrant art scene. Join an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Mardi Gras World, where the magic happens and the extravagant floats are built each year. One of the Mardi Gras World certified artists will lead you through designing your very own Mardi Gras mask and creating your masterpiece, premium felt-backed mask with glitter, feathers and more to take back as an eclectic memento of your time in The Big Easy. Show off the piece of art you just made by enjoying a masquerade themed dinner on the Mardi Gras Plaza, which boasts a stunning view of the Mississippi River.
Day 12: Depart New Orleans
Location: New Orleans
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers as your adventure comes to an end. Departure to the airport will be at leisure.
What's Included
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Meals
Enjoy 11 Breakfasts (B), 4 Dinners with Wine (DW), 2 Lunches (L), including special dining experiences like a traditional crawfish boil in Lafayette and a Celebration Dinner in New Orleans.
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Exclusive Experiences
Participate in unique activities such as a behind-the-scenes tour of Mardi Gras World in New Orleans, a private after-hours tour at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis, and a visit to the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville.
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Cultural and Historical Insights
Gain insights into the Deep South's rich history and culture with visits to iconic locations such as Graceland, Sun Studio, and various Antebellum Mansions.
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Local Expertise
Benefit from the knowledge of Local Experts, including a park ranger at the Acadian Cultural Center and a local musician guiding the tour of Sun Studio.
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Comfortable Travel
Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned luxury coach featuring double the standard legroom, onboard washroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi in hotels and coach where available.
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Accommodations
Stay in carefully selected hotels throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
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Additional Inclusions
Enjoy added conveniences like hotel and restaurant tips included, baggage handling, personal radio headsets for tours, and the services of a Travel Director.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare to and from the start and end points of the tour.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered, giving you the opportunity to explore local cuisines on your own.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities or excursions not listed in the tour itinerary.
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Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature, including, but not limited to, laundry, gifts, and souvenirs.
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Tips
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included and are at your discretion.
Check out our Q&As
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What are the main highlights of the Country Roads of the Deep South tour?
The main highlights of the Country Roads of the Deep South tour include visits to Nashville's historic distillery Nelson’s Green Brier, the National Museum of African American Music, a choice between two activities in Nashville, a culinary adventure at the New Orleans School of Cooking, an exclusive tour of Mardi Gras World in New Orleans, and a private tour at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis. Additionally, the tour features a transformative tour focusing on women's rights and civil rights movements in Memphis, a guided tour of Historic RCA Studio B in Nashville, and a visit to Graceland, Elvis Presley's mansion in Memphis.
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How many meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 11 Breakfasts (B), 2 Lunches (L), and 4 Dinners with Wine (DW).
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What are the accommodation options on this tour?
Accommodation options on the tour include The Banker's Alley Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Nashville, The Guest House at Graceland in Memphis, The Alluvian in Greenwood, Natchez Grand Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette, and New Orleans Marriott.
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Are there any activities focused on cultural or historical education?
Yes, the tour includes several activities focused on cultural and historical education such as a visit to the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, a transformative tour focusing on women's rights and civil rights movements in Memphis, a visit to one of the Antebellum Mansions in Natchez to learn about America's history, and a visit to the Acadian Cultural Center in Lafayette to learn about the Acadian people.
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What unique culinary experiences are offered on the tour?
Unique culinary experiences on the tour include a traditional crawfish boil in Lafayette, a cooking demonstration and lunch at the New Orleans School of Cooking focusing on Creole and Cajun cooking, and a Hot Tamales cooking class at the Viking Cooking School in Greenwood.
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Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to high standards.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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