Southern Explorer

Southern Explorer

3,133 Views
14 Days From

$4114

$2263

Southern Explorer

14 Days Starting in New York, USA and ending in Miami, USA

Visiting: New York, Washington, Roanoke, Gatlinburg, Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Pensacola, Orlando, Miami

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

USE

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Age range:

18-70

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $4114 $2263 Operator discount: -$1851 -45%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the Southern Explorer, a captivating 14-day journey through the eastern USA, starting in the bustling streets of New York and concluding on the sun-drenched beaches of Miami. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and leisure, with visits to iconic landmarks in Washington D.C., the charming town of Gatlinburg, and the vibrant music scenes of Nashville and Memphis. Experience the unique allure of New Orleans with an optional Mississippi Riverboat cruise, and explore the wonders of Orlando, including a visit to the Kennedy Space Center. Enjoy comfortable stays in centrally located 3 and 4-star hotels, with complimentary Wi-Fi and the guidance of experienced tour leaders. With organized orientation walks and optional activities, this tour provides a seamless and enriching travel experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse cultural tapestry of the USA.

Highlights

  • Visit historic and cultural landmarks in New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.

  • Explore the picturesque town of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains.

  • Experience the vibrant music scene in Nashville and the legendary Beale Street in Memphis.

  • Discover the unique charm and culture of New Orleans, with an optional Mississippi Riverboat cruise.

  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Pensacola and enjoy the Gulf of Mexico.

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center and explore the wonders of space exploration.

  • Enjoy the lively atmosphere and sun-kissed beaches of Miami.

Places You'll See

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: New York

emstryker.photography
centralparknewyorkcity
williamjnetherland

Location: New York

Accommodation Name: Martinique NY on Broadway - 4 Star

Welcome to New York City! Meet your group and tour leader in the evening for an informal welcome at the hotel.

Until then, feel free to roam the famed streets of New York like a local or rest up for our great adventure ahead! AccommodationMartinique NY on Broadway - 4 Star

Day 2: New York – Philadelphia – Washington D.C.

emstryker.photography
centralparknewyorkcity
williamjnetherland

Location: New York

Accommodation Name: Washington Hilton - 4 Star (or similar)

We depart New York for Philadelphia, where we spend the morning exploring the gorgeous historic district of the “City of Brotherly Love” and the birthplace of a nation.

See landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, and stroll through Independence National Historic Park and Mall.

Then continue to the nation's iconic capital, Washington, D.

C.

AccommodationWashington Hilton - 4 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesSightseeing of Independence HallSightseeing of Liberty Bell

Day 3: Washington D.C.

Location: Washington

Accommodation Name: Washington Hilton - 4 Star (or similar)

Ready to explore the capital inside out? Tag along your expert guide to learn all about the marvellous sights such as the U.

S.

Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the White House and Arlington National Cemetery, site of the JFK Memorial.

Enjoy your personal leisure time in the afternoon, perhaps visit some of the many museums including the famous Smithsonian Institute or simply stroll the banks of the Potomac River.

AccommodationWashington Hilton - 4 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesSightseeing of Washington D.

C.

Day 4: Washington, D.C. - Williamsburg - Roanoke

Location: Washington

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Tanglewood - 3 Star (or similar)

Our journey continues to Willamsburg, Virginia's colonial capital.

Visit the the Duke of Gloucester Street and discover the city's impressive public buildings, authentic colonial houses and the college of William and Mary.

Then we ride inland towards Roanoke, where we spend the night.

AccommodationHoliday Inn Tanglewood - 3 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesSightseeing of Williamsburg

Day 5: Roanoke - Blue Ridge Mountains - Great Smoky Mountains - Gatlinburg

Location: Roanoke

Accommodation Name: Edgewater Hotel & Conference Center - 3 Star (or similar)

Watch the charming landscape as we drive along the Blue Ridge Mountains, setting up the scene for the fascinating Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Gatlinburg with abundant evening time to spend at your leisure.

Explore the unique resturants and cafes on the high street before a refreshing rest at the hotel.

AccommodationEdgewater Hotel & Conference Center - 3 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesPanoramic Sightseeing of Great Smoky Mountains

Day 6: Gatlinburg - Nashville

Location: Gatlinburg

Accommodation Name: The Inn at Opryland, A Gaylord Hotel - 3 Star (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, our adventure takes us through Knoxville, the third largest city of Tennessee, to Music City USA, Nashville! Arriving early in the afternoon, absorb the buzing music scene and the modern skyline of the city at your own tempo.

AccommodationThe Inn at Opryland, A Gaylord Hotel - 3 Star (or similar) Meals IncludedBreakfast

Day 7: Nashville - Memphis

Location: Nashville

Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown - 3 Star (or similar)

Without skipping a beat, we travel on to Memphis! The city is acclaimed for blues music and home to the legendary Sun Records, where immortal artists as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded albums.

Take a tour of the city with your guide to explore Beale Street, the ever-beating heart of blues.

In the afternoon, you can join an optional tour to Graceland, the former home of the one and only Elvis Presley.

AccommodationCrowne Plaza Memphis Downtown - 3 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesMemphis City Tour Optional ActivitiesGraceland Tour

Day 8: Memphis - Jackson - New Orleans

Location: Memphis

Accommodation Name: Hilton New Orleans Riverside - 4 Star (or similar)

We delve further south and into Mississippi, the 'Magnolia State'.

Driving through the state capital, Jackson, we continue to Lousiana and New Orleans.

See up close the home of the infamous costume parade on Mardi Gras and why New Orleans is called the 'Big Easy'.

Enjoy round-the-clock nightlife, a buzzing live-music scene and spicy, fascinating heritage with influences of American, French and African cultures.

In the evening, you can familiarise yourself with the Creole culture on an optional Mississippi Riverboat dinner cruise with live tunes by a Dixieland jazz band.

AccommodationHilton New Orleans Riverside - 4 Star (or similar) Optional ActivitiesMississippi Riverboat dinner cruise

Day 9: New Orleans

Location: New Orleans

Accommodation Name: Hilton New Orleans Riverside - 4 Star (or similar)

The day is yours to enjoy at leisure! Soak in the French flavor and splendor of New Orleans oozing in the air.

Venture the French Quarter with its distinctive iron balconies hanging over narrow streets of cobblestone.

Climb atop an infamous New Orleans levee to grasp how these unique engineering projects safeguard the city against nature.

Frequent one of the trendy live music venues.

AccommodationHilton New Orleans Riverside - 4 Star (or similar)

Day 10: New Orleans - Gulf Of Mexico - Pensacola

Location: New Orleans

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Pensacola - 3 Star (or similar)

Following the Mississippi Gulf Coast through Mobile, we travel to the city of Pensacola.

Here we will take a tour of one of the top 10 rose gardens in the United States, the Bellingrath Home! Then, visit Pensacola Beach to roam among sea oats dancing in the wind and dip your toes in the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

AccommodationCourtyard by Marriott Pensacola - 3 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesThe Bellingrath Home visitSightseeing of Pensacola Beach

Day 11: Pensacola - Orlando

Location: Pensacola

Accommodation Name: Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration - 3 Star

We continue east towards central Florida taking a panoramic route through Ocala, a region renowned for thoroughbred horses and fields of citrus.

Our next stop will be the fantasyland of thrilling entertainment, Orlando! Arrive in Orlando around 6pm, explore the town on your terms and have a good night's rest for an adventrous day tomorrow.

AccommodationDelta Hotels Orlando Celebration - 3 Star Included ActivitiesPanoramic Sightseeing of Ocala

Day 12: Orlando

Location: Orlando

Accommodation Name: Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration - 3 Star

Make the most of Orlando, the 'City Beautiful' for yourself! You can explore the city in depth, recharge by the pool, or up the adrenaline with a visit to one of Orlando's world-famous attractions such as Universal Studios, Walt Disney World or Sea World! AccommodationDelta Hotels Orlando Celebration - 3 Star

Day 13: Orlando - Kennedy Space Center - Miami

Location: Miami

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Miami Beach-Oceanfront - 3 Star (or similar)

Departing sunny Orlando, we ride on to the distinguished Kennedy Space Center, home of United States' space programme! Visit the centre in fascination of the amazing feats accomplished with tremendous efforts to expand humanity's horizon.

We continue to Miami to land on the famous Miami Beach, always vibrant and diverse! We will arrive at the hotel around 7pm, enjoy the evening at your leisure.

AccommodationHoliday Inn Miami Beach-Oceanfront - 3 Star (or similar) Included ActivitiesKennedy Space Center visit

Day 14: Miami

Location: Miami

Our trip will end in Miami after we bid our farewells and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 & 3 star hotels

  • Meals

    1 Breakfast

  • Transportation

    A/C coach or mini-bus

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced tour leaders

  • Orientation Walks

    Organised orientation walks at some of the towns visited

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi ( where available )

What's Not Included

  • Any flights not mentioned above

  • Travel Insurance

  • Meals not stated above

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Tips and gestures

  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Optional activities

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort with an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus, allowing you to spend less time on the road and more time exploring the destinations.

Accommodation

Stay in the comfort of 3 and 4-star hotels with central locations and great facilities throughout your journey, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the Southern Explorer tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotels, ensuring comfort with central locations and great facilities.

  • Are meals included in the Southern Explorer tour?

    The tour includes 1 breakfast. Other meals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus, ensuring a comfortable journey between destinations.

  • Is there a tour guide available during the Southern Explorer tour?

    Yes, the services of experienced tour leaders are included to guide you through the various destinations.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities such as a Mississippi Riverboat dinner cruise in New Orleans and a tour of Graceland in Memphis.

  • What is the starting and ending point of the Southern Explorer tour?

    The tour starts in New York and ends in Miami.

  • Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in hotels and on the coach where available.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Stephani Ferrari Dalto (Google Reviewer)  

I’m about to finish my...

18-Oct-2024

I’m about to finish my Essential Turkey trip with Travel Talk (October 12th- for 10 days) and had an amazing experience! Our guide Mustafa was fantastic. He took care of every little detail and made sure everyone in our group (42 people, a great mix of ages) was happy and well looked after. I traveled with my mom, and this trip was the perfect way to get a quick, but comprehensive, view of what Turkey has to offer. This was my second time with Travel Talk, and I would definitely choose them again for future adventures!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Thursday

Apr 18, 2025 - May 01, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

May 09, 2025 - May 22, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025
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Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Jun 06, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025
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Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Jun 20, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 17, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 14, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 11, 2025
$4114 $2263

Operator discount: -$1851

Friday - Thursday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025
$4239 $2331

Operator discount: -$1908

Friday - Thursday

Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025
$4239 $2331

Operator discount: -$1908

Friday - Thursday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025
$4239 $2331

Operator discount: -$1908

Friday - Thursday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 23, 2025
$4239 $2331

Operator discount: -$1908

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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