Thursday, April 3, 2014

The Phoenix Girls Chorus Itinerary for June 2014



Day 1, Tuesday, June 17 - Depart for Italy
Overnight flight to Italy via London

Day 2, Wednesday, June 18 -  Arrive in Rome
Benvenuti in bella Italia! Upon arrival in Rome you will meet with your Incantato Tour Manager and then transfer to the charming Costa d‘Ulisses for the first part of your journey near the beach. From there you will check-in to your hotel and in the evening everyone will enjoy a welcome dinner.

Day 3, Thursday, June 19 - Cathedrals & Castles on the Coast
Visit the magical cities of Gaeta and Sperlunga that attracted the Romans already over 2000 years ago. Then prepare for a special performance in Itri, an ancient castle located on a hilltop.  This will be hosted by a local choir who will also prepare dinner for the girls.

Day 4, Friday, June 20 - Sightseeing and Concert in Rieti at 6 pm
Bid farewell to the beach and continue to Rieti in the very heart of Italy. The charming hill top town has a lot to offer. The highlight Teatro concert takes place on this evening at 6 pm.

Day 5, Saturday, June 21 - Exploring Assisi (Recital) Festa della Musica Performances
Explore nearby Assisi with an expert guide prior to PGC presenting a recital at the Basilica of St. Francis. Upon return to Rieti, celebrate the world-wide celebration of music Fete de la Musique or Festa della Musica as it is called in Italian in the town of Rieti and today‘s line-up will feature the Phoenix Girls Chorus in several events. There will also be special reception with the cultural mayor.

Day 6, Sunday, June 22 - Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Basilica at noon
Today's program has changed as PGC's Cantabile was invited to sing in the prestigious Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Thus, the group will embark on a day trip to Rome and return to Rieti for dinner and to stay overnight.

Day 7, Monday, June 23 - Under the Tuscan Sun
Experience the beautiful countryside of Umbria and Tuscany as you journey towards Florence. You will stop in Siena for sightseeing, which is still one of Italy's most ancient cities. As you will see in the small streets and alley ways, not many private cars are allowed inside of the city. After Siena you will then board the coach to continue onto Florence and check into your Florentine hotel. A sampling of local food is also planned and a concert is scheduled for in the evening.

Day 8, Tuesday, June 24 - Florence Sightseeing & likely Florence Concert at 7:45 pm
See the wonderful city of Florence with an expert guide, that will show and tell you the famous stories of the city and of the Medici Family. The entrance to the Accademia Museum to see Michelangelo‘s David will also be included. Inside the Museum you may learn about the invention of the modern day piano that was created by a man who was employed by a Prince of the Medici family. Later on, PCG is likely being the featured choir for a concert at the church of Santa Maria Maggiore right in the heart of Florence. Thereafter, the young ladies will see Florence by night.

Day 9, Wednesday, June 25 - Scenic Road to Rome & Sightseeing 
See the rolling hills that make this region so famous once again as you journey to the Eternal City of Rome. You will start with a walking tour of the Baroque Squares, climb the Spanish Steps, see the Trevi Fountain and also try some gelato prior to check-in at your hotel.

Day 10, Thursday, June 26 - Ancient Rome Tour
No visit to Rome is complete without a walk through the Coliseum and Roman Forum. There will also be free time for you to do some shopping for souvenirs, people watch and see the street artists etc.

Day 11, Friday, June 27 - Exchange & Concert
You will have a chance to explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel on a special tour before PGC will present a final concert after a school exchange. A special farewell dinner concludes the day.

Day 12, Saturday, June 28 - Depart for Phoenix
After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for your journey back to the US. The travelers will return home with memories to last a lifetime.