Am Fear Liath Mòr - Scottish Tall Tale or Unsolved Mystery

In the great northwest of the United States people tell stories (and produce photos and videos) of what they claim is the Sasquatch, a possible missing link between man and apes.  In the Himalayan region where Nepal and Tibet meets similar stories of the Yeti, a possible brother of the Sasquatch who has haunted and surprised mountain climbers and locals in tales dating back to the 19th century.  Almost everyone has heard of these two creatures and there exists a healthy debate as to their existence in the real work or in the imaginations of others.  But do you know about the Big Grey Man of Ben Macdhui?

The Big Grey Man or Greyman is known by his more traditional name of  Am Fear Liath Mòr.  The first documented was in 1925 when the noted mountaineer and explorer J. Norman Collie.  Collie recounted that while making a solo ascent of Ben Macdhui peak in 1891 he "heard a crunch similar to the ones his own feet made when he took a step."  The problem was that he knew he was alone and whoever or whatever was taking the steps was taking 1 for every 4 he took!  This experience caused the usually professional Collie to stumble and run for 5 miles.  Similar experiences and stories have been related over the years by other climbers.

More recently,   in the 90's, three men walking in a forest near Aberdeen reported seeing a bipedal creature with an eerie, inhuman face.  A few weeks later the same three men were driving through the area where they first saw the creature when it suddenly appeared again, this time running alongside their car (they were doing 45 MPH) and attempting to enter their vehicle.  Hitchhikers can be relentless!

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Ben Macdhui is the highest peak in the Cairngorns mountain range of the eastern Scottish Highlands, the second highest peak in all of the United Kingdom.  It appears a single, rugged, elevated plateau but actually consists of a number of smaller plateaus interwoven with shallow passes.  Adorned with a number of low, rounded, glacial mountains, the mountain range is part of the larger Cairngorns National Park which along with opportunities for hiking and biking exploration also contains ski parks and lakes for the more nautically inclined visitors.  Additionally, within the park are a number of communities and villages where visitors can find a variety of accommodations and local attractions beyond the typical national park offerings.

To visit the beautiful country of Scotland, Sceptre Tours has a number of different offerings for you to choose from including both escorted and self-directed tours. 

The Multifaceted Charms of Powerscourt Estate

What do you get when you combine a 13th century Irish castle with an 18th century German Architect and an 8 year old Viscount?  A magnificent location that has drawn royalty, celebrities and private citizens for years and provided them all with memories to last a lifetime.

Located in Enniskerry, County Wicklow, The Powerscourt Estate started its existence as castle that was a major military site that controlled access to various rivers in the area.  Originally the seat of power for the Baron La Poer, a barony by writ created in 1375, the land that encompassed it would eventually become the Powerscourt Estate. 

The original structure (less of a real castle and more of mansion), consisting of 68 rooms and a massive entrance hall, underwent a massive alteration by German architect Richard Cassels starting 1731 and finishing 10 years later.  The alterations were a break from the original design and gave the structure a more castle-like feel.  In the years that followed the estate would become the location of a number of conferences attended by royalty including King George IV in 1821.


In 1844 the seventh Viscount Powerscourt, Mervyn Wingfield inherited the title and the estate at the age of 8.  At the time the estate consisted of 49,000 acres and afforded the seventh Viscount the ability to indulge in some alterations of his own.  Upon turning 21, Viscount Wingfield, set upon an ambitious plan to build some of the most beautiful gardens in the whole of Ireland.  When he was done, the combination of gardens (featuring Japanese and Italian themes), Tower Valley with its distinctive Pepper Pot Tower, the Dolphin Pond and a pet cemetery with deeply personal gravestones showing the love that was felt for the various pets of the Viscount's families.

Eventually the estate would be sold to the Slazenger family in 1961 but one of the Slazenger daughters would marry 10th Viscount Mervyn Wingfield, maintaining a connection between family and estate.  Pared down to its current 47 acres, the house was badly damaged by fire in 1974 and has been constantly renovated to return it to its original grandeur.  In June of 2011, The Tara's Palace Museum of Children relocated to the Powerscourt House bringing with it Tara's Palace, one of the most magnificent doll houses in the world.

While its original history included visits and stays by members of the aristocracy and royalty, the house and estate has played host to other aristocrats and royals.  Because of its magnificent architecture, immaculate gardens and the adjoining Powerscourt Waterfall (the highest waterfall in Ireland), the house and estate have been used as the backdrops to many movies and TV shows.  Visitors to the estate who are fans of the 2002 movie adaption of The Count of Monte Cristo will recognize immediately the location of a party thrown by the Count.  Visitors to the Powerscourt Waterfall who have seen Excalibur will be taken back to the pivotal fight between Arthur and Lancelot.  The estate was also used for the recording of the DVD/TV Special, Celtic Woman's Song of the Heart.

If all of this spurs your interest in visiting this fine estate, Sceptre Tours is offering a magnificent package with round trip air and 6 nights at the nearby, 5-Star Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

In 1621 the inhabitants of the Plymouth settlement and the Wampanoag Indians sat down for a feast to celebrate the autumn harvest.  In 1817, New York became the first of many states to officially adopt a thanksgiving day (the parades started much later!).  242 years later, at the height of the Civil War in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving would be observed each November.  In 1941 FDR signed a bill stating that the National Holiday of Thanksgiving would be celebrated on the 4th Thursday of November (reversing an order he established in 1939 that moved the day up a week to spur retail sales and returning to the original date established by Lincoln).

Since then Thanksgiving has become a holiday that many in the United States count among their favorites because it is about family coming together to celebrate all that we have to be thankful for in our lives.  Many people are driving home, others are slogging through airports and train stations to get home.  Others still are taking their families and flying off on vacations to take a break from the traditional Thanksgiving celebrations.

Regardless of where your travels take you, we at Sceptre Tours wish all a safe and happy journey, a joyous Thanksgiving day and a safe return trip back.  Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Oíche Chinn Bliana - New Years in Ireland

Most people in America know the traditions of New Years Eve here in the States.  If we go out we find a local bar or restaurant (and if you are in NYC you try to find one close to Times Square!), we dress in our best and we wait for the clock to strike midnight.  If you stay home you invite over family and friends, you break out the hors d'oeuvres, tune in to New Years Rockin' Eve and wait for the ball to drop.  But did you ever wonder what New Years was like in Ireland.  You would be surprised at the similarities and may be interested in the possibilities for new experiences.

In Gaelic it is known as Oíche Chinn Bliana and while the goal is to party and the venues are the same, there are some unique experiences and traditions that are worth making the trip for.  Starting well before the clock strikes 12, you can take a trip to Achill Island to experience the last sunset in Europe.  And if you want to start the new year on Achill you will see a traditional parade with pipers followed by a traditional morning swim in the icy Atlantic Ocean.

Or maybe you would rather experience some more spiritual experiences.  Head to the west of Dublin to Dunderry Park to experience a Shamanic New Years Celebration that will have you walking on fire and engaging in a little Trance dance. 

Or perhaps you chose to celebrate the new year with some consumer therapy.  Shopping in Dublin is key to the locals as the traditional Irish New Years celebration includes purchasing new linens and stocking up on various domestic supplies as they believe this will promise them a fresh start and prosperous New Year.

Sceptre Tours can help you realize your wish to experience New Years in Ireland as well as Christmas in Ireland with two amazing packages at the 5-Star Ritz Carlton Powerscourt that would make wonderful presents for that special someone in your life.

Yuletide on the Emerald Isle

From the Tourism Ireland's October 2011 Ezine Ireland...

In the lead up to this year’s festive season, the Emerald Isle’s newest and biggest event is the 7Up Winter Wonderland, a magical Christmas village set in the picturesque grounds of a park in Dublin, the Irish capital.

This festive extravaganza will run – hail, rain or snow – from 1 December  to 8 January 2012 (except Christmas Day). It features Ireland’s largest covered ice rink, a Christmas circus, a giant wheel, top European rides for all ages and tastes, a traditional Christmas market, plus cafes, bars and entertainment. Santa’s Christmas Village is there too, free to enter and excellent fun for all the family.

December is actually a great time to visit Dublin, which is one of the friendliest cities anywhere in the world. Spirits are high, the atmosphere is electric, streets are decked out and heaving. Shoppers bustle along cobbled alleys, stopping for a bit of craic and mingling around the multitude of Christmas markets.
Popular ones are situated in Dublin’s Docklands, Farmleigh House – where Queen Elizabeth II stayed during her recent visit to Ireland – and Fitzwilliam Square, a historic Georgian area in the centre of Dublin. But there are dozens more. 

Foodies will love Taste of Christmas, an annual festive food extravaganza taking place between the 25 and 27 November this year at the architecturally spectacular Dublin Convention Centre. Replete with celebrity chefs, tastings of all descriptions, culinary entertainment and inspirational seasonal menus of everything from traditional classics to cutting-edge cuisine, there is plenty to fire the imagination and the taste buds.

And just two hours away in Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland, the food theme continues as the city puts on its wonderful Christmas Continental Market. The fabulous City Hall gardens are transformed into a bustling alpine village providing a great foodie and shop-around-Europe opportunity in the heart of the town famous for giving the world the Titanic.

Northern Ireland’s craft markets and fairs may also hold the answer to shoppers’ Christmas gift quandaries. The province is renowned for its vibrant craft scene and there are literally hundreds of fairs, markets, exhibitions and workshops taking place in the run up to Christmas. They can be a fantastic help in finding that extra special crafty gift.

To read the full story click here.  Learn more about Sceptre Tour's magnificent Christmas in Dublin and New Years in Dublin, both at the 5 Star Ritz Carlton in Powerscourt to see if Holidays in the Emerald Isle might be worth putting on your Christmas List!

Italian Breeze

So lately we've been on this Italy kick and can't seem to get the lovely country off our minds. Whether it's the romantic and majestic streets of Rome, dripping of history and intrigue, or the quiet and quaint streets of Tuscany, full of whimsy and relaxation. Have you ever wanted to see where Juliet stood awaiting her Romeo? Or taken a trip down the Venetian canals?

Well, there's a way to do all that flawlessly and easily. At Sceptre Tours we offer these great escorted Italy tours that will take you all across beautiful Italy and you won't have to worry about a thing. Check out our Italy Great Cities package. Rates start at $1,549 for an 8-day tour, including all accommodations, private motorcoach travel all throughout the country and transfers to and from the airport.

You can sit back and let someone else worry about the planning with this trip. Sightseeing programs will be arranged for you. And you will love the itinerary - Rome, Pisa, Florence, Verona and Venice. All the top cities of Italy. All at your fingertips. All arranged for you. It makes taking a vacation, really be a breeze.

Italian Sampler

Take a moment to take a deep breath and close your eyes. Actually, hold off on that last part. You won't be able to read what we have to say-- and you're going to like it. So just imagine they're closed and you're sitting at an outdoor cafe, dining al fresco in St. Peter's Square. Water is lapping at the seawall as the melody of dueling orchestras spills onto the streets. Aromas from countless entrees are in the air as Italian waiters hustle by. You open your eyes to a unique combination: modern style set against ancient architecture. You pay your tab and go for a walk. The line into St. Peter's Basilica has waned, so you walk inside and stand in awe of its magnificence.

It suddenly hits you, you want to totally immerse yourself in the Italian experience – culture, cuisine and countryside! This can’t be your only stop. You want to see more, do more, explore! Well, you’re in luck. With our A Taste of Italy package, you’ll get to experience not just one city, but three: Venice, Rome and Florence! Starting at $1,499 (travel included), you’ll rack up a week’s worth of experiences. That’s plenty of time to explore the canals of Venice on a Gondola (to the tune of O Sole Mio), tour the historic landmarks of Rome (Colosseum, anyone?), and sip your favorite varietal under a Tuscan sunset (grapes are certainly our favorite fruit!).

Deals like these will have you saying Arrivederci to home and on Italian soil in no time.

Take a Roman Holiday

Rome is one of Hollywood’s most beloved backdrops— whether you prefer romance, adventure or mystery, this timeless city has a storyline anyone can follow. Consider creating your own movie tour and reenacting your favorite scenes with one of our Italian vacation packages.

Roman Holiday. Released in 1953, this classic starred Audrey Hepburn opposite Gregory Peck. When crowned princess, Ann (Hepburn), visits Italy on state business, she feigns illness to sneak away from her security detail and experience Rome on her own. She falls asleep on a park bench and is discovered by an unsuspecting American reporter, Joe Bradley (Peck). A series of romantic interludes ensue, and they soon fall in love— regardless of the consequences.

Saddle up with your favorite travel companion for a Vespa ride, climb the Spanish Steps (just don’t have lunch on them, it’s forbidden by Roman law), then dare to stick your hand in the Mouth of Truth.

Looking for something a little more modern?

Eat Pray Love. With amazing and endless choices of cuisine available in Italy, it’s no wonder Elizabeth Gilbert decided to experience the eat portion of her journey here. Julia Roberts plays the role of Gilbert, a woman who realizes she’s ill-suited for her life in New York and sets out on an international adventure of self discovery.

Follow in her footsteps by taking a stroll along Via Condotti, Rome’s most famous and fashionable street. Find time for peaceful contemplation in Borghese Gardens. Make a wish in the Four Rivers Fountain in the middle of Piazza Navona. Browse and sample the offerings of Campo de Fiori’s picturesque open-air market. Then end the day with a scoop of gelato. Take a cue from the story’s heroine and learn to eat like an Italian— slow and purposefully. Savor every moment!

History and intrigue more your speed?

Angels & Demons. This Dan Brown best-seller turned blockbuster highlights some of the most recognizable sites in this ancient city. Many scenes were shot of Vatican City, the tiny sovereign state the Pope calls home, which includes St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica. These are a few of many: Castel Sant' Angelo, Il Passetto, Piazza del Popolo, Santa Maria della Vittoria Church, and the Pantheon, which was originally built as a temple to the gods of Ancient Rome, and is still used for mass and other ceremonies.

If you’re really into Dan Brown novels, make sure to consult a tour guide (to decipher fact from fiction) and pack a camera. You’re sure to leave Rome with a few stories of your own!

Stress-Free Scotland

My bonnie Scotland... a term of endearment towards the country that you will be sharing for years to come after your vacation there. Especially after taking your journey with us on this incredible Scotland escorted vacation. With rates starting at $1,379 this dream trip is really a steal. You'll start off by flying into Glasgow and spending a night there. Then, you're off to mysterious Loch Lomond where you'll take a ferry to the romantic Isle of Skye. You'll spend the night there at the Dunollie at Broadford. You'll then travel through the historical Scottish Highlands and make your way to Inverness where you will enjoy a sheepdog display, visit a whisky distillery, and the mountain resort of Pitlochry. You'll also see St. Andrews and Scone Palace where you'll hear the fantastic histories of the crowning of Scottish kings. Then lastly, off to vibrant Edinburgh to visit sites enveloped in history.

The thing that's wonderful about Sceptre Tours' escorted vacations is that we take care of all your transfers, all your transportation, almost all of your meals - many of which are quite luxurious, and all the sightseeing adventures you need. You really don't have to worry about anything. So, if you're someone who likes a stress free vacation, this is really the way to go for you.

Check out all our escorted vacation packages, and more specifically this Scotland escorted vacation today!

The Other Side of the Road - A Brief History Lesson

In honor of travel to a few of our favorite places - England, Scotland and Ireland - we thought we'd take a moment out of the day to discuss the whole "other side of the road thing." It's always something that makes a foreigner nervous - driving on the other side of the road. And, on the other side of the car. But because most of us don't travel across the Atlantic everyday, we don't really ever take a lot of time to think about why it is that Americans and 3/4 of the world drives on the right side of the road while the other quarter sticks to the left. So what happened? Why the difference and where did it originate from?

The most common theory about all this, and probably the most realistic, is one that involves power struggles and colonialism. Early history shows that the British have always driven on the left side of the road. Back in Roman times, carts kept to the left. In the Middle Ages it was used because an attack on the road was best taken from the right as the driver would be better able to quickly pull out his sword. This practice continued throughout Europe, until the French got their hands on it. During the French Revolution it was said that everything was changed to the opposite in an act of rebellion. Napoleon saw it as a display of absolute power. During the American Revolution, the same act of rebellion happened. Throughout the centuries as the main forces of power held colonies in other parts of the world, those colonies followed suit and adopted the driving practices of their motherlands.

In the beginning of the 20th century, actual standardized law of road directions took place with the popularization of Ford cars. Since the cars were made with controls on the left side of the vehicle, the car was suitable for right-handed driving and the right-handed standard thus became the norm for much of the world.

Quite interesting how a struggle over power and independence has shaped something so trivial as the side of the road we drive on. Well, our hats are off to Great Britain to sticking to your roots. If you are interested in driving the other side of the road, check out our Britain vacation packages!

Charming Tuscan Splendor in Lucca

At Sceptre Tours we have a few great travel packages that take you right into the heart of Tuscany. What a beautiful and dreamy place. On many of our Tuscany vacation packages, we put you up in an elegant estate in the hills of Tuscany - La Fattoria degli Usignoli. Situated right in the middle of the region, you have easy access to explore many of the quaint towns in the surrounding areas. One of these towns that you absolutely cannot miss is Lucca. Cute, happy Lucca - where life is good.

Lucca's scenery is out of a storybook. From the orange-red tiled rooftops, to the earth-toned buildings, to the landscape of green cypress trees and mountains - this place is sure to put your mind in a creative and peaceful mood. In the springtime, the town has got to be the most romantic place in Italy. The surrounding meadows are full of wildflowers, the town is bustling with quaint, village-like activity, the skies are bluer than you've ever seen them before. And in the spring, remember there are less people there than during the summer so it's not as crowded nor as expensive.

While you're there, make sure to take a moment to observe to city walls. They span two and a half miles so you can't miss them. From the top of them, you can take in some of the most beautiful vantage points. Also, make sure to visit the Parco Villa Reale. Once a home to Napoleon's sister, Villa Reale is closed to the public, but you can visit it's 17th century gardens which are amazing.

A trip to Lucca is not to be missed.

$3,039 - French River Cruise!!

Setting sail up the Rhone and Saone Rivers? What a phenomenal way to see France! This European river cruise package we have for you starts at $3,039 and takes you right through the heart of beautiful Burgundy and Provence. You'll start the trip off staying in Nice at the gorgeous Fairmont Monte Carlo. Next you're off to Arles in Provence to board your ship and sail north, up through Avignon, charming Viviers, medieval Tournon, Vienne, France's gastronomic capital of Lyon, as well as many other small and charming towns along the way. On this 7 night deluxe river cruise you will enjoy prestigious accommodations in an outside viewing stateroom. Your vacation ends in Paris where you will spend two nights at Le Meridien Montparnesse.

Other perks of this package include:
• 23 meals (10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners)
• Complimentary champagne with breakfast
• Unlimited wine & beer with dinners
• Evening entertainment
• Shore excursions per itinerary
• Services of a cruise director throughout
• Guaranteed departures

This is a great deal. Check it out on Sceptre Tours' website today!

$899 Venice & Tuscany Dream Package

Hey mambo, mambo Italiano.... Oh hi sorry, we were just busy dreaming of our new Italian vacation package we've come up with for you. And guess what? We think you'll love the great price we came up with!

Introducing....drumroll please... our 6-Night Tuscany-Venice Package, including airfare and car rental all for only $899.

Experience Italy's history, culture and charm with this amazing package. You'll spend two nights in Venice at the 4-star Park Hotel Bolognese and four nights in Tuscany at La Fattoria degli Usignoli. Venture through the romantic canals of Venice and roam the narrow sidewalks for famous hand-blown glass and medieval phantom-of-the-opera-like masks. Explore Tuscany's breathtaking countryside and take in magnificent views of vineyards and fields of sunflowers. Visit nearby cities like Forence, Siena, San Gimignano, Certaldo, Pisa, Lucca and Arezzo.

The Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese is a majestic 4-star hotel dating back to the 800's. Located along the Terraglio, it's a great home base for exploring Venice. La Fattorua degli Usignoli is a 14th century estate in the hills of Tuscany. It's situated only 25 miles from magnificent Florence.

Seriously, don't pass up this opportunity.

Travel Agents Listen Up!

Ok travel agents out there, we want you to help you! Everyone knows that the best way to sell someone something is by experiencing whatever that is, first-hand. Well, we are taking that advice and helping you learn more about Ireland!

In an effort to help travel agents sell more Ireland in 2011, Sceptre Tours has announced a special spring fam trip which will run March 30 to April 4 and is priced from $599 per person exclusive of taxes and fees.

According to Chris Accomando, President, "The best way for travel agents to sell their clients on a vacation in the Emerald Isle is to experience it themselves.  We've designed a great intro to Ireland just for travel agents that includes stays throughout the East of Ireland as well as an educational seminar, and more."

Sceptre's March 30th Fam Trip includes the following:

• Accommodations for four nights as follows:  1 night at the Four-Star Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny, 2 nights at the Four-Star Killarney Towers in Killarney, and 1 night at the Four-Star Maldron Cardiff Lane in Dublin;
• Round-trip airfare to Ireland from JFK, Boston, or Chicago;
• Private luxury motor coach with services of a professional driver/guide;
• Full Irish breakfast daily;
• 4 dinners including dinner and traditional entertainment at Dublin's Taylor's Three Rock;
• Admission to:  Kilkenny Castle; Blarney Castle; Trinity College and The Book of Kells;
• Comprehensive sightseeing including the Ring of Kerry, Blarney Woolen Mills, and Dublin City Tour.
• Sceptre Tours Educational Seminar with cocktail hour;
• All local taxes, hotel service charges, and handling of one suitcase per person

Space is limited for this fam trip and it is priced from $599 per person from New York and Boston and from $649 from Chicago (exclusive of taxes and fees).  Rates are per person based on double occupancy.  Single supplement is $110 and has limited availability.  All agents must have a valid IATAN card.  Additional taxes are approximately $127 per person.

Pretty cool, huh? Take your fam, jet off to the land of luck and learn all there is to know about this wonderful country.

Scotland Luxury Vacation Package

Sleep like kings and queens while enjoying this phenomenal Scotland vacation package. Book today for $799 and up and you will be in Scotland by springtime. This six night package includes a one-night stay in Edinburgh, four nights in your choice of a B&B and one night in the beautiful and historic Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, deep in the Scottish Highlands. You will also get round-trip airfare to Edinburgh from one of four major US cities and manual car rental for the week. Awesome….

With this package, you’ll get to explore the country, seeing top sights like Edinbugh, Glasgow, Inverness and many small towns and villages. Part of the package lets you choose a B&B to stay in. We have over 300 in the country to choose from! And then, on your final night you will rest like royalty in the Atholl Palace located in the Highlands. The epitome of Scottish Baronial splendour, the Palace stands overlooking wooded parkland grounds and the town of Pitlochry to the surrounding hills. Originally opened as the Athole Hydropathic in Victorian times, the hotel retains many features of the traditional large country house, with bedroom facilities and standards which often exceed expectations and complement spacious, relaxing public areas.

In addition to all this, there are some great upgrades that you can partake in for only a small price. Seriously, jump on this deal today!

The Luck of the Irish

When I was a little girl, I used to watch this wonderful, old movie that brought me into a great world of magic and folklore. Parts of it frightened me, the ghost-like banshee most of all. But other parts fascinated me. What am I talking about? What I am talking about folks is the famous Disney classic, Darby O’Gill and The Little People. Set in a small village in Ireland, the movie is about an old man, Darby, who discovers an underground world of leprechauns and ends up catching one.

But what of this legend of the leprechauns? Where did it come from? And why is it now one of the most iconic images associated with the country of Ireland? Leprechauns are mythical small fairies of Ireland, said to bring mischief to anyone who comes across them. They spend most of their time hidden away and collect mounds of gold, which they hide in enormous pots. If ever captured, they can grant three wishes to the human in exchange for their release. But sometimes, those wishes can go awry, as they adore causing trouble. The name leprechaun is derived from the Irish word leipreachán, defined as "a pigmy or sprite". The earliest known reference to the leprechaun appears in the medieval tale known as the Echtra Fergus mac Léti (Adventure of Fergus son of Léti). The text contains an episode in which Fergus mac Léti, King of Ulster, falls asleep on the beach and wakes to find himself being dragged into the sea by three lúchorpáin (a deviation of leprechaun). He captures his abductors, who grant him three wishes in exchange for release.

The appearance of the leprechaun depends on what part of the country you are in. Prior to the 20^th century, the leprechaun adorned a red suit as opposed to the famous green suit of today. They are small creatures, small enough to sit on one’s shoulder. Legend says that they inhabited the Isle of Ireland long before the arrival of the Celts. They are also said to be great musicians, adept at playing the fiddle, whistles and the harp. I am reminded here of the iconic scene when Darby comes upon their lair, gold flowing everywhere and the sounds of Irish musicians whimsically playing their instruments.

Who knows exactly who invented the idea of the leprechaun. Throughout the years however, it has blossomed into a wonderful legend for all ages and a distinct icon for Ireland.

A Kiss of Popularity - Ireland's Famed Blarney Stone

You know, if I had the opportunity to make myself more eloquent and popular, I think I’d take it. I mean, who doesn’t enjoy being liked? But would I kiss a dirty, old stone that millions of lips have touched throughout the years? Maybe not. I value my health. Thousands of people would disagree with me though. The famous Stone of Eloquence at Ireland’s Blarney Castle has been receiving hearty smooches for hundreds of years. There are many theories as to how the stone arrived at the Castle but one thing is certain, believers are sure that a kiss to the stone will bring them the “gift of gab.”

So, how did this legend come to be? Some say it was Jacob’s Pillow, brought to Ireland by the prophet Jeremiah. Here it became the Lia Fail or ‘Fatal Stone’, used as an oracular throne of Irish kings. It was also believed to be the deathbed pillow of St Columba on the island of Iona. Legend has it that it was relocated to mainland Scotland, where it served as the prophetic power of royal succession. King of Munster and builder of Blarney Castle, Cormac MacCarthy, sent five thousand men to support Robert the Bruce in his defeat of the English at Bannockburn in 1314. In return, a portion of the magical stone was given to him and placed in the castle.

It is believed that a witch who was saved from drowning was the one to reveal the magical powers of the stone to Cormac MacCarthy, saying that “There is a stone that whoever kisses, oh! he never misses to grow eloquent ‘tis he may clamber to a lady’s chamber, or become a member of parliament.” Since then, visitors have been coming to the stone to receive its powers. Back in the day, visitors had to be held by the ankles and lowered head first over the battlements. It has since been made more accessible. All you have to do is climb the castle, lie on your rear, arch your head back into a deep crevice and kiss the stone upside down while gripping two iron railings.

So, any of you readers out there who have been to see the Blarney Stone, have its powers worked on you? Please, do share!

Awesome Family Vacation This Summer in Ireland

Summertime is only a few months away now and that means it’s time to plan your next family getaway. Instead of shelling out a fortune for a house at the beach, we have got a deal for you! For only $899 per person, you and three others can enjoy our six night Ireland 5-Star Resort in Summer Package. Have we got your attention yet?

This awesome deal includes 6 nights in a deluxe villa at The Heritage 5-Star Golf and Spa Resort in the quaint village of Killenard, round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin, weekly manual full-size car rental, and a tour of the famous Belleek China Factory. The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort is located just outside Dublin and offers luxury living and a wide array of activities. Your accommodations will be a two bedroom villa, fully equipped with a living room, dining room, kitchen and all the amenities you would expect from a luxury resort. You also have access to golf, spa treatmets and a host of free family-fun activities, including arts and crafts, basketball, table tennis, dance classes, movies and lots more.

This package is priced from $899 from New York, Boston, or Chicago from July 1 to August 31, 2011 and from $599 from March 12 through March 31.  All rates are per person based on four people sharing and exclude government taxes/fees/facility charges of up to $180 per person and the September 11th Security Fee of $2.50 for US enplanements.  This package is also available from September 1 through October 31, 2011 from $699.  

Seriously, check out this awesome Ireland travel deal now!

The Ultimate Celebration - St. Patty's Day in Ireland

We all love Saint Patrick’s Day. It’s a fun excuse for us Americans to wear green, drink Irish whiskey and embrace a side of us that many have. But do many of us actually know anything about the holiday? In Ireland it is a national public holiday. There are festivals all over the country celebrating it, the biggest being the official Saint Patrick’s Day Festival celebrated March 16^th through the 20^th. Since we love Ireland, and in honor of one of our greatest Ireland vacation deals yet (yes, check it out now and book soon!), we thought we’d pay tribute to the holiday that many of us hold so dear.

Named after Saint Patrick, the most commonly recognized patron saint of Ireland, the holiday originated as a Catholic celebration and later became more secular. Born in Roman Britain in the 4^th century A.D., Saint Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders and held captive by them at the age of 16. He later fled and returned to Britain. In 432 he returned to Ireland as a bishop, on a mission to bring Christianity to the Irish. Folklore tells us that one of his teaching methods included using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. After teaching for nearly 30 years, he died on March 17^th, 461. The original color associated with Saint Patrick was blue. I bet many of you didn’t know that. Over the years the color green and the image of the shamrock became associated with him.

In 1903, Saint Patrick’s Day became an officially declared holiday in Ireland. In the mid 1990s, the Irish government began a campaign to use Saint Patrick’s Day to showcase Ireland and its culture. This blossomed into the national Saint Patrick’s Day Festival, the first of which was held in 1996. Now it is a four-day event and we have to say, it’s pretty spectacular.

Feel like seeing this holiday in its natural environment? Sceptre Tours has a number of Ireland vacation packages for you, the best deal of which puts you right in the action for only $599. Check it out and see Saint Patrick’s Day in its full glory.

Things We Love About Paris

Traveling to Paris is bound to impress you no matter what you do while you’re there. But there are some top spots that you absolutely cannot miss. We are sure you will agree:

1.     Eiffel Tower. Of course, perhaps the biggest tourist attraction in the city and the place with the longest lines. But the wait is worth it. The views from the top are amazing. If you’re not a good line patron, go at night. The lines are shorter.

2.     Musée d'Orsay. A wonderful museum on the Seine waterfront, the Musée d'Orsay is located in a former train station and shows off an incomparable display of impressionist and post-impressionist art.

3.     Jardin du Luxembourg. A trip to Paris would not be complete without a visit to the one of the city’s most beloved parks, dedicated to the children of Paris by Napoleon.

4.     The Seine. You must take in the views of the Seine and life around it. Sit on its banks or take a relaxing evening cruise.

5.     Montmartre. Say hello to the famous Moulin Rouge while touring Montmartre, the home of cancans and cabaret.

6.     Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris. Perhaps one of the most beloved sights of Paris, the Cathedral brings in 10 million visitors a year.

7.     Centre Pompidou. A famous and successful art and culture center, visit here to enjoy fabulous collections, unique gifts and a phenomenal view from the roof.

8.     Musée du Louvre. There is no museum as famous as the Louvre and it's for good reason. The collections of work from all over Europe as well as Assyrian, Etruscan, Greek, Coptic and Islam art and antiquities give this iconic museum its due bragging rights.

9.     Macarons from Ladurée. A luxury cake and pastry maker, Ladurée serves up the most scrumptious treats.

10.  Vintage shopping at Aspasie & Mathieu. Your best bet for decently priced, vintage accessories, like gentlemen’s pocket watches, ladies’ hats and walking canes, Aspasie & Mathieu is located in the Latin Quarter.

In Love With Provence

Recently I’ve been on this Provence kick. I don’t know exactly what it is but the culture and beauty of this wondrous region has made me fall in love. Be it the peaceful one-lane roads lined with olive trees, the colorful and delicious smelling lavender fields, or just the laid-back, enjoy-life type of lifestyle the locals live – everything has got me wanting more Provence. You know what’s awesome about Sceptre Tours? They’ve got some packages that are perfect for the Provence lover – European river cruise packages that take you straight into the heart of the region. But more on that later.

Ahhh Provence… how I adore thee. As Lonely Planet puts it, “There is no more sun-and-celebrity-rich part of southern France than this iconic wedge of glittering coast, mountain retreat, Roman temple and gastronomic art de vivre.” And I couldn’t have said it any better. Sensual experiences abound, Provence is the place to really feel life. Sights and smells are aplenty. Provence is the place to hunt for truffles, pick fresh lavender and chestnuts, hunt through bustling markets, and just sit back at a leisurely café and sip a café au lait. Provence stretches to the glorious Côte d'Azur, where tanned celebrities grace white sand beaches and red carpets. It’s where alfresco dining becomes the main way to eat and riding a bike, the main way to get around. To counteract all this zen, Marseille sits on the Côte d'Azur, and its hustle and bustle and urban art scene will wake you up a bit. There is also Monte Carlo, with its skyscrapers towering over the Mediterranean and glitz and glamour are aplenty. Safe to say, Provence has it all. And I love it all. I wish I was there right now!

Party Like a Rockstar at Nice's Carnaval

So recently we talked about Venice’s world-famous Carnevale. We thought we’d take a sec to talk about another great Mardi Gras destination in Europe. And we would like to point out that many of our French river cruises frequent here. We are talking about Nice. France’s little jewel on the Côte d'Azur. With it’s shimmering turquoise blue waters, white sands and vibrant nightlife, who wouldn’t want to come here? It’s great anytime of the year, but since Carnival is coming up, it’s imperative that we brag about Nice’s Carnaval.

It’s safe to say that if you come to Nice for Carnival, you are there to party in style. Held between Febraury 18^th and March 8^th this year, just like Venice’s Carnevale, it is one of the world’s greatest carnivals. Nice turns into a vast pleasure land. Parades, parties, costumes, color – festivities explode all over the city, while spectacular fireworks displays explode over the Mediterranean. This year’s theme is Le Roi de la Méditerranée (King of the Mediterranean) and it’s sure to be a cultural adventure.

Many of the festivities during Nice’s Carnaval are free, but some events and the parades charge a fee. And the fees are worth it, trust us. If any of you get to go this year, let us know! We would love to hear what you thought of it.

Ten Free Must-Sees in London

It’s no doubt that London can be a very pricey city but that doesn’t mean you have to shell out your life’s savings while you’re there. London has a ton of free activities and attractions for you to immerse yourself in. Here’s our top picks:

1.     British Museum: Not only is this one of London’s top attractions, but it is also totally free. You can see cool exhibits like the Rosetta Stone, the Ancient Egyptian Book of the Dead, and beautiful Aztec mosaic masks.

2.     Borough Market: South of the river, this food-lover’s paradise has been around since the 13^th century. Open Thursday to Saturday. Don’t miss it.

3.     St. Paul’s Church: While St. Paul’s Cathedral may charge a ticket price to get in, this church on the western flank of Covent Garden Piazza is known as the actor’s church and is home to memorials for Charlie Chaplin and Vivien Leigh.

4.     Whitechapel Gallery: First opened in 1899, this art nouveau building is home to 10 different galleries. Picasso’s Guernica was first displayed here in 1939. On Thursdays and some Fridays you can enjoy music and readings. There is also a really cool café here.

5.     Temple Church: Having a key role in the DaVinci Code, this is a must see. Built by crusading monks, this church is immersed in historical mystery.

6.     Science Museum: Seven floor of exhibits, the Science Museum offers such cool displays as flight simulators, hot-air balloons and steam locomotives.

7.     Photographer’s Gallery: Located in the West End, this is an amazing contemporary photo exhibition.

8.     National Maritime Museum: Located in Greenwich, this great museum features topics on Britain’s seafaring past.

9.     National Gallery: Housing 2,000 Western European classics by Van Gogh, Renoir, daVinci and Michelangelo, this place has it all and it’s all for free. Located on Trafalger Square, over 5 million people visit each year.

10.  Houses of Parliament: Reserve ahead and you can sit in on sessions. But more than that, the neo-gothic houses will amaze you.

If you're interested in travel to London, check out our British vacation deals!

A CARNEVALE OGNI SCHERZO VALE

Roughly translated, anything goes at carnevale. A great way to celebrate the coming of Lent is Mardi Gras, and an amazing place to experience all the festivities and grandiosity that come along with lavish celebrations such as this is at Venice’s Carnevale. For almost two weeks every February before Lent, Venice celebrates with ornate parties, luxuriant masquerade balls and spontaneous parties in the streets. All the madness begins two Fridays before Ash Wednesday and finishes on Fat Tuesday.

Carnevale is literally the world’s best-known baroque fancy-dress party. You spend 12 days running around in Phantom of the Opera like masks, sampling some amazing cuisine and partaking in events left and right. Venetians themselves have been celebrating this great holiday since at least the 15^th century. Back then, private clubs organized masked balls and bull-baiting. In the 18^th century, Venice became known as a very hedonistic place and the indulgent festivities of Carnevale lasted nearly two months! When the city was taken over by Napoleon in 1797, the event fell by the wayside and was completely abandoned when Mussolini banned the wearing of masks. It wasn’t until 1979 that the event was once again brought alive, rightly taking its place among the world’s finest festivities.

Perhaps the most iconic image of Carnevale and of Venice itself is the mask. You will need one to attend the festival’s high point, the Gran Ballo delle Maschere (Grand Masked Ball), which takes place in a different location each year, usually at a very fitting grand palace. As long as you have a mask and a proper costume, you are welcome to join the festivities. A couple of notable mask makers in Venice are Ca’Macana and L’Arlecchino. If you are interested in attending the masked ball, you can make reservations on the Carnevale website. An Italian vacation would certainly not be complete without a trip to Venice, to see the home of this amazing festival. And certainly if you are in Europe during February, you must stop by to see the wonder of Carnevale.

B&Bing It Up In Italy

Waking up in a quaint little casetta overlooking the Tuscan countryside, while sipping coffee and eating a fantastic breakfast. Doesn’t that sound like such an awesome way to see Italy? We think so. Did you know we offer an excellent Italian B&B program at Sceptre Tours? If not, then listen up.

Our B&B’s range from simple and charming apartments in Italy’s great cities, like Rome and Venice, to luxurious and lavishisly decorated villas in the Italian countryside. We have a program right now that starts at $1,239 and gives you 6 nights accommodation in your choice of standard B&B’s throughout Lazio, Tuscany, Umbria, Campania, Venice and Sicily. You’ll also enjoy a manual shift car rental for the week and your airfare is included. Once you’ve purchased the package, you are free to design the trip that you want, choosing from a number of different B&B’s throughout the country. You also choose which one of four gateway cities you want to fly into.

Many of the B&B’s will be situated near city center attractions, like the Trevi Fountain in Rome, or near the Chianti region in the country. Each features rich and lavish décor and furnishings. You might find antique furniture, artisan craftsmanship and the superior quality comforts that will make your stay truly memorable. For an extra $200 per person, you can upgrade to the Platinum Package, in which you will get private baths ensuite as opposed to shared bathrooms, as well as an automatic car rental for all you non-stick drivers out there. If you are dying to see some of the B&B options, go to Sceptre Tours website to view all the inns.

The Perfect Scotland Sampler Package

Spring is approaching my friends and we have got a great deal for you. Introducing our Deluxe Scotland Vacation in Spring package, offering a convenient and affordable way to explore Scotland’s most famous cities, as well as its charming small towns and villages.  Priced from $799 per person, the 6-night package includes round-trip air, accommodations and rental car for the week. This package will allow you to enjoy a blend of accommodations including the Baronial splendor of Atholl Palace, your choice of Bed & Breakfasts, and a city hotel in Edinburgh’s best shopping area. If you were to put this package together by yourself, it would add up to nearly $1,150! That's a total savings of over $700 per person! See, we knew you’d be interested…

Gorgeous and pristine Scotland. From the rugged beauty of the Highlands to the heather-clad hillside and medieval alleys of Edinburgh's Old Town to the pubs and designer shops of Glasgow, Scotland is filled with romance, history and legends amidst gorgeous landscapes. Experience it all and easily explore Scotland's famous cites of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, plus the charming villages and towns along its countryside and coast.

You see, Scotland may be a small country, but it comes packed with a little bit of something for everyone. History buffs will love Edinburgh and Glasgow, food lovers will enjoy trying famous haggis or delicious smoked salmon from Dumfries and Galloway, outdoor types will marvel in the vast beauty of the Highlands. Since our package is only $799 including airfare, it’s a great way to learn about a new country and see all the top sites in one trip.

The Legend of Saint Valentine

In honor of the upcoming holiday, we wanted to give a shoutout to Saint Valentine himself. Did you know that some of Saint Valentine’s relics now live at the Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland? Kind of cool, huh?

Saint Valentine is actually the name of several martyred saints of ancient Rome. The name “Valentine” was very popular and it derives from the word valens, meaning worthy, strong and powerful. Of the Saint Valentine of legend, the one we celebrate on February 14^th, not much is known about him apart from the fact that he was buried at the Via Flaminia north of Rome on Feb. 14^th. The day that has become known as Valentine’s Day derived from the idea of a feast that occurred on Feb. 14^th but it is widely unknown as to which Saint Valentine exactly the feast was for. This feast was first established in 496 by Pope Gelasius I.

The first representation of Saint Valentine appeared in the Nuremberg Chronicle in 1493. In it is a portrait of Valentine alongside some text that states he was a Roman priest martyred during the reign of Claudius II. It says he was arrested and imprisoned upon being caught marrying Christian couples and otherwise aiding Christians who were at the time being persecuted by Claudius in Rome. He was shortly thereafter sentenced to death. Many of the current legends surrounding Valentine’s Day were invented in the 14^th century in England, when the feast of Feb. 14^th first became associated with romantic love. There is still nothing that indicates a connection of the Saint to the idea of love.

If you want to see the famous relics of Saint Valentine (or shall we say, one of the Saint Valentines) you can take a trip to the Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin. Ireland is a beautiful place, and for Valentine’s Day, it couldn’t be a more romantic destination. Check out our Ireland vacations online at Sceptre Tours!

So You Hail From Dublin, Huh?

Who doesn’t love a good Irish accent? Or any accent in general for that matter. In the spirit of Irish travel and some of our fabulous Ireland vacation packages we thought we’d take a moment to talk about some of our favorite Dubliners. From music legends to famous writers, plenty of awesome people come from this fantastic city. Maybe it’s the luck of the Irish…

First up there’s legendary godfather of the brewing world, Arthur Guinness. Born in Dublin in 1725, Guinness was the son of a land steward to the archbishop of Cashel and brewed beers regularly for workers on the estate. Beer was already in his blood. He took over a brewery at St. James Gate in Dublin in 1759 and within eight years was master of the Dublin Corporation of Brewers. In 1778 he began to brew porter, which would later become the beer synonymous with the Guinness name.

But a good porter in Ireland would not be complete without a great band to listen to and Dublin is a mecca for talented artists. In the 1970s in a little high school in Dublin a few friends joined together to form a band. Their names were Larry Mullen, Adam Clayton, Paul Hewson and Dave Evans. Not ringing any bells? Perhaps you know them better for their stage name, U2.  Yeah, we thought that would wake you up.

Dublin is not all about rock bands and beer though. A number of other talents like playwright George Bernard Shaw, writer and poet Oscar Wilde, actor Colin Farrell and golf pros Paul McGinley and Padraig Harrington all hail from this luck-filled city.

Take a trip to Dublin and visit where they come from. Who knows, maybe some of their Irish luck will rub off on you while you’re there.

The Art of Travel

Saint Augustine once said, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” And that is exactly how I feel. I imagine lots of people share this feeling with me. However I have come across a few people in my lifetime, a select, rare few, who unfortunately have not shared this viewpoint. And I can’t begin to imagine what my life would be like if I thought as they did.

My love for travel developed early on. As a young child, I was blessed to have parents that took me all over the country. They both loved to take trips and learn about new places. Before I was even five years old, I had already been all across the Northwestern states, into two Canadian provinces and to two Hawaiian islands.  Throughout my childhood, my mother and I would take road trips all over the country.  When my father remarried, I lucked out with a stepmother who was not only amazing, but who also worked for Alaska Airlines. Because of her, I got to travel on any Alaska Airlines flight for free.  In college I studied abroad twice and almost didn’t come back after the second time. It’s safe to say, I love to travel.

But like I said, I have met a few people in my lifetime that hate to travel. That think that their little corner in the U.S. is the best place on earth and they never want to experience anything else. Now, I know it’s not my place to judge but I can’t help but think of all they’re missing out on – experiences, cultures, people. Travel is how I changed my perspective on life; it’s how I developed compassion and empathy. How can people know what’s really out there, what life is really about, without experiencing the world first hand?

There are so many great travel deals out there all the time, making it so easy to see the world. I know that airplane travel is not as glamorous as it used to be, what with all the extra screening and waiting at the airports. But the cool thing is, that once you’ve reached your destination, it makes it all worth it. In my opinion, travel is the only way to have a full life. I know without it, I would not be who I am today.

Nice is Nice

Nice. No, not the word, the city in France. The gorgeous city in France on the Côte d’Azur. The French Riviera brings to mind images of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, a vibrant city culture, and colors abound. Nice is the fifth most populous city in the country of France, after Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Toulouse. It is nicknamed Nice la Belle (Nice the Beautiful) because it really is just that, beautiful. The area has a Mediterranean climate with summers lasting nearly 6 months, and winters that are very mild.

What a wonderful place to live or visit. Nice is full of decadent gastronomical delights, festivals year-round, history and culture – it’s safe to say it is a city for everyone. The Promenade des Anglais is a gorgeous stretch of homes, businesses and hotels along the Baie des Anges. The Hotel Negresco is a famous and beautiful landmark located on the Promenade des Anglais. This patatial hotel, built in 1912, reflects the ritzy, art deco feel of the Mediterranean. There are a number of picturesque squares throughout the city, like Place Masséna, Place Garibaldi and Cours Saleya, with its daily flower market.

Sceptre Tours has a number of different French river cruises that stop in Nice, after traveling through Provence from Paris. Nice is a wonderful spot, not to be missed.

Wonders Abound in Wicklow

When you think of Ireland, what images come to mind? For me, I imagine rolling green hills, moss covered trees, sheep and gorgeous mountain lakes. Wicklow Mountains is that exact image. The Wicklow Mountains region is located in the mid-eastern side of Ireland, just south of Dublin. In fact, your journey into the Wicklow Mountains begins in Dublin. Military Road takes you straight out of Dublin and into the region, curving through lush, green hills, bogs and mountains dotted with small lakes. It looks like the setting for a storybook.

The mountains themselves aren’t very high. The highest peak, Lugnaquilla, is only about 3,000 feet and looks more like a very large hill, but that really doesn’t matter here. Between the mountains are a number of vast lakes, valleys and small villages. One of these quaint villages is Glendalough and it is a rugged, romantic little town. Military Road winds it’s way through the mountains, providing for some fantastic views of the Irish countryside.

Outside of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, the rest of County Wicklow is just as amazing. It is a wonderfully historic spot. It also is home to some of the most pristine beaches you will ever set your eyes on.

Sceptre Tours has a number of Ireland vacation packages taking you near or into this wonderful, fairytale-like region. You must make a trip to Wicklow while you’re traveling through Ireland.

Dreaming of Starry Nights

Perhaps one of my favorite artists of all time is Vincent Van Gogh. I don’t know. There’s something about his paintings that give me this dreamy, whimsical feeling – the kind of feeling where you believe all things are possible. Knowing Van Gogh mainly for the stirring he brought about from his infamous ear experience, I wanted to do a little research on the man who brought so much beauty into the world.

Born in Holland, Vincent William Van Gogh was a Dutch post-Impressionist painter. Raised mainly in Holland and spending quite a bit of his younger years in Paris, Van Gogh felt a pull later in his life to the clean and beautiful skies of Provence. And it was perhaps here that he produced some of his best work. Living in Arles, Van Gogh’s creativity, productivity and madness all reached a climax. He worked for a short while with fellow artist Paul Gauguin, eventually driving him away. In one year alone, he painted nearly 200 canvases, all the while living in intense isolation and an immense suffering. In fact the only main contact he had with the outside world was in his letters he’d write to his patient brother Theo.

The townspeople of Arles though were not as patient with him. A heavy drinker, and occasional user of whores, Van Gogh offended the majority of his neighbors. So much so that in 1889 the people of Arles petitioned to have him evicted. The shock of this left him even more unable to cope with life, eventually leading him to self-commit himself to an asylum in St-Rémy.

Most of Van Gogh’s paintings are now in Moscow and Amsterdam, so you can’t view them in France. However, you can visit many of the places that inspired his works in Arles. Starry Night may have been painted from the Quai du Rhône just off Place Lamartine. The Café La Nuit on Place Forum is exactly reminiscent for the terrace platform, scattered with tables and immersed in gaslight under the stars, from the painting Terrace de café le Soir. In fact, Van Gogh and Gauguin used to frequent here often.

So it seems to me that to learn more about this magnificent artist and his traumatic, yet beautiful life, I need to venture to the French countryside. And Provence couldn’t be a more amazing vacation destination. If you’re interested as well, Sceptre Tours has great European River Cruise packages that travel right through this region.

Look For the Loch Ness Monster This Spring in Scotland

Check out this new package we have for spring. The majestic beauty of Scotland has never been more accessible AND affordable than with this 6-night Explore Scotland in Spring package which takes travelers to Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow for just $699 per person including airfare, hotel, rental car, and breakfast daily.  Travelers who attempt to book these components on their own would pay over $1,249 per person! Our deal at Sceptre Tours deal gives you savings of up to $1,100 per couple.

From visiting the home of the infamous Loch Ness Monster in Inverness to touring Edinburgh Castle, and seeing the internationally acclaimed museums, architecture, and shopping of Glasgow, this is the perfect introductory visit to Scotland.

The Explore Scotland in Spring package includes the following:

• 2 nights at the Holiday Inn Express - Waterfront in Edinburgh;
• 2 nights at the Royal Highland Hotel in Inverness;
• 2 nights at the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow;
• Breakfast daily;
• Round-trip trans-Atlantic airfare to Scotland;
• Standard manual shift car rental

Our package is priced from $699 from New York and Boston, $799 from Chicago, and $849 from Los Angeles for travel March 1 to March 31, 2011.  It is available through June 15, 2011 at slightly higher rates. 

In addition to all that great stuff, we also are offering some cool upgrade options with this package:

Scottish Heritage 7-day Pass from $61 per person: Receive access to over 120 attractions all over Scotland including Edinburgh Castle, Culzean Castle, Traquair House, Stirling Castle, and many more. 

The Historic Scotland Explorer Pass from $40 per person: Includes access to 78 sites all over Scotland.  Attractions include; Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, the Border Abbey's, Fort George, Dallas Dhu Historic Distillery, and many more. 

We are so happy to be able to provide this wonderful Scotland vacation package to you this spring. Visit our site for more details!

Ceilidh Culture Festival This Spring in Edinburgh

If you’re traveling to Scotland this spring, there is one event you don’t want to miss. Edinburgh’s Ceilidh Culture is the city’s annual traditional arts festival, taking place every spring. This year it will be held March 25^th through April 16^th. The festival is a great way to take in the local Scottish culture and learn about its heritage. Events range from traditional music, dances and storytelling. This year it will also host a street fair packed with stalls of food, drink, crafts, fashion and music, all celebrating the very best of Scotland.

Musicians from all across Scotland will come together to bring you the sounds of the traditional Gaelic culture. Watch and participate in traditional dances of the country. And join in to listen to tales of Scottish history and culture.

Sceptre Tours has a number of great vacation packages that take you to Scotland, many of which include air transport and car rentals. We have this awesome deal for $699 right now that includes 6 nights with air and car to Scotland in the spring and the travel dates will put you in Edinburgh just in time for the festival. You will also get to explore the towns of Inverness and Glasgow while you’re there.

Here’s a little more information about the event: http://www.ceilidhculture.co.uk/

And of course, talk to us anytime about this great travel deal or any other travel deals you may be curious about!

Don’t Tell a Lie in Rome

Rome. The magestic city of romance. I have been fascinated with Rome since I was a little girl and perhaps it was thanks to a little movie starring my favorite actress, Audrey Hepburn. When I first saw Roman Holiday, I fell in love with the city and I had never even been there. It’s beauty, it’s culture, it’s gorgeous piazzas - everything about the place drew me in.

In the movie, Audrey Hepburn plays Ann, the crown princess of an unspecified country. Unhappy with a life of schedules and public appearances, Ann decides to run off one evening into the busy streets of Rome. Along the way she meets American expatriate Joe, who happens to work for an American tabloid in Rome. Ann lies to him, claiming to be just a tourist in Rome for the day. Joe soon discovers her true identity and decides to show her the city, meanwhile keeping his new found knowledge of who she really is a secret.

One stop they make along the way is at the Bocca Della Verità (The Mouth of Truth). It is perhaps one of my favorite places in Rome and a sight not to be missed. La Bocca della Verità is an image, carved from Pavonazzetto marble, of a man-like face, located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. It is believed that the sculpture dates back to the 1^st century and that it was part of an ancient Roman fountain, portraying a pagan god. Its ancient history fascinates me, but even more so is the whimsical myth associated with it. It is said that the mouth acts like a lie detector. If you place your hand into the mouth and tell a lie, your hand will be bitten off. Now, I’ve honestly never tested this theory but I think it’s such a fun little piece of culture.

In Roman Holiday, the character Joe does exactly this and pretends to have his hand bitten off to frighten Ann. He of course, is just joking but the symbolism that they are both being dishonest with each other is grand.

If you are in Rome at all while on your Italian travels, you must stop by and see this magical little piece of history.

A Chianti Love Affair

Red wine has been synonymous with fancy dinners, romance and Italy since it’s birth. It is said that one glass a day helps to prevent heart disease. And there’s nothing better than pairing it with a nice steak, a fancy charcuterie, or a decadent chocolate dessert. UB40 wrote a song about it. Hollywood producers have made countless movies about it. We love red wine. And more specifically, we love Chianti and all it’s velvety goodness. We thought we’d take a minute here to tell you a little more about the famous wine.

Chianti is an Italian red wine produced exclusively in Tuscany. Most people recognize its iconic image of a squat bottle enclosed in a straw basket. The first declaration of its growing region in Tuscany was made in 1716. The area is near the towns of Castellina, Radda and Gaiole. In 1932, the area was redrawn and divided into seven sub-areas: Classico, Colli Aretini, Colli Fiorentini, Colline Pisane, Colli Senesi, Montalbano and Rufina. Throughout the years, producers continued to perfect the making of Chianti wine. In the 1970s they began to reduce the number of white grapes in the wine. Now for a wine to be called a Chianti, it must be produced with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes.

Each Chianti has a slightly different taste depending on what part of the region it is from. But overall, Chianti wines tend to be medium-bodied with light floral and berry notes. You may notice that a bottle has an image of a black rooster on it. This is the symbol of the Consorzio Chianti Classico, a foundation of producers in the Chianti Classico region. The foundation was formed to promote the wines of the region, improve wine quality and help to prevent wine fraud.

Many of our Italian vacation packages at Sceptre Tours take you to Tuscany where you can attend exclusive Chianti wine tastings and learn about the incredible growing region. We are crazy about Chianti. Are you?

A Vacation for the Princess at Heart

The Ashford Castle. A medieval wonder that harkens back to the days of princes and princesses, of knights and court jesters. Who would object to stepping back in time to imagine what it was like to live like them? Not me, that’s for sure. When I was a little girl I remember building forts in my room and then later decking my treehouse out to look like a royal palace. I held high court and would invite only the most special guests to attend (boys with cooties were strictly prohibited). I loved watching movies like Robin Hood and pretended I was Maid Marion, waiting for my noble outlaw to arrive.

Now that I am an adult, I have mainly forgotten these child-like dreams but was once reminded of them again when I came across this gorgeous castle-resort in Ireland. Ireland’s Ashford Castle is a 350 private acre wonder, set amidst lush, moss-covered forests, resting on the banks of the Lough Corrib. Established in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family following their defeat of the O’Connors, the castle eventually became the estate of the Guinness family in the 1800s. In 1939 it was sold to a Noel Huggard, who then opened the estate as a hotel, which it has been ever since. It has been the set of a famous John Wayne movie, The Quiet Man, played host to famous guests such as John Lennon and King George V of England, as well as many other celebrities.

Lucky for me, I came across this castle while looking through Sceptre Tours’ independent vacations page. They have this awesome Ashford Castle Package that gives you one night at the castle as well as four nights throughout Ireland in different farmhouse B&Bs. I am excited to book my vacation soon! I urge you to check it out as well.