Jim Porter has been the President of The Elvis Presley Fan Club of Australasia for 30 years. He is well respected in the Elvis world and is friends with many people that played a part in Elvis’ life and career. He has been interviewed by numerous newspapers, travel magazines, and radio stations, and appeared on television shows, both nationally and internationally, talking about his love and knowledge of Elvis. Jim has been leading Elvis tours to the USA, Mexico and Hawaii since 1988, having first visited Graceland and the USA in 1984. Having a vast knowledge of both Elvis and the USA and local sites and cuisines and believing in the personal touch, Jim is able to suggest places of interest and restaurants that meet your tastes, budget and needs. He looks forward to meeting you and sharing an incredible tour of Elvis’ life and music as we tour America.
VIEW ITINERARYDAY 1 Wednesday October 9, 2024 New Orleans
Today we depart on our flight to New Orleans. Due to the International Date
Line we arrive on the day we depart. We are transferred to our hotel.
DAY 2 Thursday October 10, 2024 New Orleans
This morning we have an overview tour of New Orleans, birthplace of jazz,
with a local guide. We will visit an above ground cemetery, see the beautiful
mansions on St Charles Avenue and then explore the French Quarter,
including a walk along famous Bourbon Street. In the afternoon Jim Porter
will take us to the locations used by Elvis on the film “King Creole” including
the balcony where Elvis Presley sang “Crawfish”. This evening we will enjoy
a fabulous cruise, dinner and jazz music aboard a majestic Mississippi
paddlewheeler. (B,D)
DAY 3 Friday October 11, 2024 New Orleans
Morning: This morning we visit the beautiful Louisiana swamp country
and enjoy a swamp tour, by boat. You will see amazing wildlife (alligators
and birdlife) set amongst the distinctive swamp vegetation and bayou
communities. Afternoon: On our return to New Orleans you will be free
to grab some lunch and explore the fabulous antique shops, art galleries,
museums, restaurants, bars, and colourful street performers of The French
Quarter. In the evening there will be a chance to take in the outstanding
traditional jazz music at Fritzel’s jazz bar or Preservation Hall (both optional).
DAY 4 Saturday October 12, 2024 Louisiana/Nachez
Morning: Depart New Orleans and drive to Baton Rouge, the capital of
Louisiana, for morning tea. Elvis performed in Baton Rouge on May 31, 1977 to a
crowd of 15,000 wearing the Mexican Sundial jumpsuit. We continue north on
Highway 61, towards the historic town of Natchez, Mississippi. Visit Frogmore
Cotton Plantation, where you will be taken on a guided delta heritage tour.
You will learn about the lifestyle that existed during slavery. Afternoon: Check
in to our accommodation, on the banks of the Mississippi. (B)
DAY 5 Sunday October 13, 2024 Tupelo
Today we travel to the town of Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis Presley in
northern Mississippi. We will stop for lunch and visit the BB King Museum, in
the town of Indianola (his birthplace). (B)
DAY 6 Monday October 14, 2024 Tupelo/Memphis
This morning we first visit the Elvis birthplace and museum. It was in the
two bedroom house constructed by his father, grandfather and uncle that
Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935. We then see the Elvis Museum that
details his life and the original Assembly of God church that Elvis attended
which has now been relocated to the museum site. It was here that Elvis
was first exposed to the rich Southern gospel that became a staple of his
musical repertoire. We then see the Elvis homecoming statue and the Tepelo
Hardware store where Elvis’s first guitar was purchased for him. We then
proceed to the city of Memphis where we stay for the next four nights. (B)
DAY 7 Tuesday October 15, 2024 Memphis
Today, in one of the highlights of the tour we visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s famous mansion. Our Elvis Entourage VIP Tour tickets allow admission to all the main attractions at Graceland, including the mansion, grave site, Automobile Museum, Elvis’s custom airplanes museum and Elvis The Entertainer Career Museum, etc. We will also see an exclusive exhibit for VIPs only. There will be time for lunch in one of the cafes or restaurants at Graceland. In the afternoon we will return to the hotel. (B)
DAY 8 Wednesday October 16, 2024 Memphis
This morning we have an overview tour of the city of Memphis. We see
famous Beale St which is the main entertainment district of Memphis,
the Mississippi Port which has been revitalized in recent years, and more.
We then have a guided tour of Sun Studio (famous 1950s recording studio,
where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and others recorded). This evening we have dinner
at an excellent Memphis restaurant, followed by further exploration of the
live music venues in Beale St. (B,D)
DAY 9 Thursday October 17, 2024 Memphis
This morning we first visit the outstanding Stax Museum of American Soul
Music. The afternoon is then free to explore Memphis. You could visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum or the excellent National Civil Rights
Museum (the motel – now museum – where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was
assassinated). (B)
DAY 10 Friday October 18, 2024 Nashville
Today we travel to Nashville, the home of country music, with a stop in
Casey Jones Village. Casey Jones was a railroad engineer involved in a
train accident that inspired numerous ballads. This afternoon we will have
a sightseeing coach tour of Nashville, with local guide, including the
downtown area, Music Row area (recording and publishing companies),
and exclusive residential area (see homes of the rich and famous). We then
visit the beautiful and historic Ryman Auditorium (Grand Ole Opry venue
1943-1974), for a fascinating tour. Elvis preformed here once on October 2,
1954. This evening why not take in some fabulous live music in Nashville’s
main entertainment precinct (around ‘Broadway’ and ‘2nd Avenue’). There
are lots of great ‘honky tonks’ (live music bars) in this area, including the
legendary Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Also, you may wish to visit the Wildhorse
Saloon (large live music & line dancing venue, in the same area). (all venues
tonight optional). (B)
DAY 11 Saturday October 19, 2024 Nashville
This morning we visit the outstanding Country Music Hall of Fame &
Museum where we will see Elvis’s HOF plaque and his “solid gold” Cadillac.
We then visit the RCA Studio B. Perhaps America’s best known music studio
and where Elvis recorded roughly half the songs from his career. During the
tour, make sure you get your photo taken sitting at the 1942 Steinway Piano
that Elvis played all those years. This afternoon we visit the Johnny Cash
Museum. This evening we will attend Nashville’s famous Grand Ole Opry
show, featuring a host of country music’s biggest stars. (B)
DAY 12 Sunday October 20, 2024 Pigeon Forge
Travel to Pigeon Forge, eastern Tennessee. Enroute, stop in Lynchburg, for
a guided tour of Jack Daniel’s Distillery, followed by lunch at Miss Mary
Bobo’s Boarding House (beautiful Southern home-cooked meals). Continue
on to Pigeon Forge. Pigeon Forge has an outstanding music-related theme
park (Dollywood) and numerous live music theatres. Evening: Tonight
we attend Elvis and The Superstars tribute show at the Smoky Mountain Theater (subject to being available otherwise alternative show will be
supplemented). (B,L)
DAY 13 Monday October 21, 2024 Pigeon Forge
Visit Dollywood, including Dolly Parton’s excellent Chasing Rainbows
Museum, music ‘theaters’, craft displays, etc. Dollywood’s Southern Gospel
& Harvest Festival will be taking place (outstanding southern gospel vocal
harmony groups). Evening: Attend Dolly Parton’s spectacular live show, Dixie
Stampede. Dinner & show, including great horse riding, buffalo or longhorn
cattle, etc. Note: Dolly does not appear in this show. (B,D)
DAY 14 Tuesday October 22, 2024 Atlanta
Morning: Travel to Chattanooga. In 1956 Elvis visited the famous Chattanooga
Choo Choo Hotel (formerly Chattanooga’s opulent railway station). We will
see a magnificent 19th century American steam locomotive and the hotel’s
renowned railway carriage accommodation. Also on the Chattanooga
Choo Choo site you may like to visit Songbirds… a first-class rare & vintage
guitar museum (optional). We then travel to Atlanta, Georgia. Afternoon:
Enjoy sightseeing coach tour of Atlanta, with local guide. During the Civil
War, Atlanta was an important Confederate stronghold, but it was reduced
to rubble when captured by Union General William Sherman. These events
became the setting for the famous novel, Gone with the Wind. Nowadays
Atlanta is a major economic & cultural centre. During our tour we will visit
the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park. (B)
DAY 15 Wednesday October 23, 2024 Las Vegas
Today we fly to Las Vegas, the city where Elvis first performed in 1956 and conducted a total of 664 concerts. On arrival in Las Vegas we are transferred to our hotel. Jim will also assist you in obtaining tickets for Las Vegas Casino Shows (optional). (B)
DAY 16 Thursday October 24, 2024 Las Vegas
This morning we will enjoy a panoramic coach tour of the city. See the
incredible casino/ hotel/entertainment complexes that line the famous Las
Vegas ‘strip’ and see the historic Welcome to Las Vegas neon sign (1959)
and sights associated with Elvis. This afternoon we see the Big Elvis show at
Harrah’s. One of the top Elvis tribute acts in the world, it has been operating
for 40 years. (B)
DAY 17 Friday October 25, 2024 Las Vegas
Today is a free day in Las Vegas. You may wish to explore the nearby hotel/
casino/ shopping complexes, such as Caesar’s Palace, or visit fascinating
exhibitions, such as Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition (optional). Alternatively,
you may wish to go on an optional tour to the Grand Canyon (by air and
coach). This evening we have a final night dinner to celebrate the conclusion
of the tour. (B,D)
DAY 18 Saturday October 26, 2024 Departure
We transfer to the airport for our flight to Los Angeles and then back to
Australia. (B)
DAY 19 Sunday October 27, 2024 In flight
DAY 20 Monday October 28, 2024 Australia
This morning we arrive back in Australia. The tour concludes.
| TWIN FARE PER PERSON | SINGLE FARE | Taxes |
|---|---|---|
| $12,995 | $15,590 | Air taxes and fuel surcharges at 1/10/23 $245 |
International touring can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair climbing in the places visited and it is important that all tour participants have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in this activity without the need of assistance from others.
Tour Operator
Travelrite International Pty Ltd. ACN 005 817 0781 (Travelrite
International) is the tour operator.
Tour Costs
The tours costs are based on transport,
accommodation, entrance costs and the exchange rate at 1
October 2023. Travelrite reserves the right to alter the costs
if any of these factors change, giving any passenger that has
booked the right to withdraw with full refund of monies paid
or modify arrangements. No alterations to costings will be
made within 60 days of departure.
Deposit and Payment
A deposit of $800 per
passenger is required at the time of booking. Full payment
will be required 60 days before departure. A 1.5% administration
charge will be added to payment by Visa, Mastercard
and America Express.
Cancellations
Cancellations within 60 days prior to
departure will result in the loss of all monies paid. Cancellations
outside of 60 days prior to departure will result in
the loss of the deposit paid per person. Travel insurance is
recommended to cover the costs of cancellation fees due to
illness, death in family, etc.
Changes to the Itinerary
Travelrite International
reserves the right to make changes to the tour itinerary to
fit in with operational requirements. Any changes to the
itinerary will be replaced with similar arrangements with an
equal or greater value.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to cover the costs of
cancellation fees due to illness, death in family, etc.
Minimum Tour Numbers and Conditions:
The tour has been costed
on the basis of a minimum number of passengers having
booked 60 days prior to departure. Travelrite reserves the
right to cancel the tour, giving a full refund of all monies
paid or offer arrangements to proceed with the tour at a
modified cost if the minimum number is not achieved.
Refunds
The tour is based on arrangements that do not allow for any
refunds in respect to sightseeing, accommodation, meals, airfare or other
services not utilized after the tour has commenced.
Baggage
All passengers qualify for 1 piece free baggage
allowance.
Tour Participation
Children under 5 years of age are ineligible on coach & cruise tours. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Travelrite & Cruise Offers tours provided they are accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance, and do not require special assistance from Travelrite & Cruise Offers personnel. Travelrite and Cruise Offers reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach & cruise tour travel and who may require services and facilities that Travelrite & Cruise Offers cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold the Travelrite & Cruise Offers responsible for any decision made by any of them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.
Responsibility
Travelrite International Pty Ltd. is the
tour organiser. Travelrite International acts only as agents in
making of arrangements with carriers, hoteliers and others
for the tour. As a result we cannot accept liability for any act
or omission whatsoever, whether negligent or otherwise of
those carriers, hoteliers or other persons providing services
in connection with the tour over whom we have no direct
or exclusive control. We do not accept responsibility for any
injury, damage, loss, delay, change of schedule or any other
events which are beyond our direct control, such as, but not
limited to, war, flood, fire, civil disturbance, acts of God, acts
of government, or any other authorities, terrorism, accidents
to or failure of machinery or equipment, or industrial action.
The passage contract in use by the carriers concerned,
when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between
the transportation companies or firms and the purchasers
of these tours and the passengers. Baggage is at own risk
throughout the tour. The contract shall be construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria and any
legal action must be undertaken in the State of Victoria.
Delays and Unforeseen Events
You engage Travelrite International to book this tour on your behalf and you acknowledge that Travelrite International acts as your agent for the purpose of making contracts between you and the various providers of accommodation, transportation and other services that comprise the tour. Travelrite International may without reference to you provide or make available to you, or may as your agent engage any third party to provide or make available to you, any good or service which Travelrite International reasonably believes is necessary for your benefit to maintain the tour itinerary, repatriate you or otherwise accommodate, transport or sustain you in circumstances in which the tour itinerary fails wholly or partly for any reason. You appoint Travelrite International your attorney for this purpose. You agree to pay Travelrite International any cost thereof and you indemnify Travelrite International in respect of any cost it incurs in this regard. Travelrite International advises you to obtain travel insurance generally including in respect of the risk that any such good or service may become required.
How to Book:
Bookings can be made by completing a booking form and
sending it with a deposit of $800 per person to:
Travelrite International Pty. Ltd.
423 Whitehorse Road
Balwyn, Victoria 3103
Further information can be obtained by telephoning
Toll Free 1800 630 343
Phone: (03) 8803 6868
Email: sales@travelrite.com.au
ABOUT TRAVELRITE INTERNATIONAL:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd (ABN 64 005
817 078) is a well-established travel company
which has been marketing throughout
Australia for over 40 years. It has a fully ATAS
accredited (No. A10538) office at Balwyn.
As such it directly represents the major
airlines of the world and all major domestic
and international hotel, tour and transport
operators. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is
a full member of the Australian Federation of
Travel Agents – AFTA
“One of the best tours we have ever done. Great program and lovely people.”
“Well organised tour that ran smoothly. Very impressed with Wayne Horsburgh, intelligent, talented and caring.”
