Arrive this morning in Isle de CafΘ, at the tropical paradise of Bungbusi. Check in to your deluxe seaside resort, then enjoy the pristine beaches just outside your door. The sand beaches and warm waters are ideal for relaxing and for all kinds of water sports, including surfing, water skiing, and snorkeling, included at no additional charge. The resort gardens, three pools, gourmet restaurants, open-air lounge with local entertainers, and swim-up bar are at your disposal. Now is the time to let the stresses fade at Isle de CafΘ.
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After a satisfying breakfast of exotic fresh fruits and coconut pudding, hike into the rainforest with your local guide and see stunning waterfalls, colorful flowers, and native temples. Stop for lunch at the Whaler's Lodge to enjoy Bungbusi seaweed soup, flavored with indigenous seaweed and herbs, and other local specialties, while whales play in the water outside your window. Next tour fragrant botanical gardens with a horticultural expert. Your evening is free to shop, watch native dance performances, and dine under the stars.
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Today travel to the top of Venduca volcano, where you can safely watch volcanic activity and get a magnificent view of the entire island. Peer into the crater from an overlook and watch the bubbling lava. Explore the museum, which houses displays about the volcano and the myths of the native peoples. After lunch at the visitors center, hop on your bike and ride down the volcano -- the best way to experience the diverse landscapes at different elevations. Later stop at a coffee plantation for a tour and a hearty dinner with a local family. Stay overnight in a charming lodge.
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Travel by motorcycle to the coast, where the ocean pounds against rocks formed from past Venduca lava flows. Then on to the recent flows, as red hot lava meets the sea and boils it to steam. Next drive up Venduca volcano to a nature preserve with many species of unusual birds. Hike while enjoying panoramic views of the island, sea, and perhaps migrating whales. That evening in Simerilia, dine at a gourmet restaurant with Mediterranean flair. Stay at an historic, elegantly decorated Simerilia hotel, featuring rejuvenating spa services.
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After a breakfast of fruit, pastries, and cappucino, pack a llama and trek to ancient Simerilian ruins. No one knows who built this city, which had indoor plumbing, running water, saunas, enclosed courtyards, and sophisticated art in its buildings. Your guide, a distinguished archeologist, will point out the highlights of this fascinating site. Enjoy a gourmet box lunch in the countryside, complete with spicy Simerilian red wine. Back in the main city, savor a fine dinner finished with chocolate ravioli. Why not enjoy the hot tub tonight?
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On your way to a local winery, explore another archeological site with an experienced guide. Afterwards, tour a winery and choose your favorite wine to have with lunch. A wine-tasting expert helps you explore the subtle nuances of Simerilian wine, some of the finest produced anywhere in the world. In the afternoon, explore the city. Shop, relax, or walk through the beautiful city gardens.
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Today join a white-water rafting expedition down the challenging Moderna river, which takes you to the city of Moderna. The river slinks through this modern village, which has quaint, tree-lined streets. Later that evening, tour the Moderna culinary academy, followed by an outrageous feast served buffet-style in their dining area. Stay in an upscale Art Deco hotel.
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A morning tour takes you to the lovely Moderna estate and rose gardens. Your guide shows you the unique features of this lavish estate and points out many important works of art. Eat lunch in its spacious dining room complete with fine silver. Later, wander through the Moderna streets at your leisure. Shop or explore a wide range of world-class museums. Tonight take in a theatre performance after a four-course meal prepared by top chefs. This is the perfect end to an exciting vacation!
