4
Dear Travelers: Join us on this 13-day expedition to discover the Land of the Czars—Russia! Led by an outstanding scholar, Dr. Patrick Hatcher, this is an exceptional opportunity to discover the rich heritage of Russia, the warmth of the Russian people, historic cathedrals and kremlins, and the scenic countryside along the voyage route, from St. Petersburg to Moscow. Russia’s successes in the arts, architecture, and collecting some of the world’s finest art can be seen in two of her finest cities—Moscow and St. Petersburg. Her religious heritage and historic monasteries, which were important fortresses in past centuries, can be seen today in kremlins along our voyage route in Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Goritzy. During this expedition, we will explore St. Petersburg, the city of Peter the Great, and Moscow, which has recently celebrated its 860th anniversary. We will enjoy a 10-night voyage on the M.S. Litvinov through rivers, canals and lakes from St. Petersburg to Moscow. The ship will also serve as our floating hotel. Dr. Patrick Hatcher, a historian and scholar, and popular leader of our last Land of the Czars voyage, will provide lectures and briefings during the trip for an extremely informative, insightful look at Russia, as we explore its magnificent cities, villages, and countryside. The Czars itinerary includes: St. Petersburg-- Explore this charming city and one of the largest museums in the world— the Hermitage—with over three million objects in three major buildings. See the Peter and Paul Fortress and enjoy strolling along the Neva River, lined by major museums and the Hermitage. The Voyage of the Czars, St. Petersburg to Moscow -- For seven days, traverse the rivers, canals, and lakes of Russia between St. Petersburg and Moscow, traveling along the Neva River into Lakes Ladoga and Onega and to Moscow. Explore three of the oldest cities in Russia, Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kostroma. Learn about the Russian countryside and village life as you travel, including the village of Goritzy. Traverse the two great lakes of northwestern Russia, Lakes Onega and Ladoga, and visit the historic island museum on Kizhi Island, a charming collection of historic homes and churches, amidst tranquil pristine scenery. Moscow—Discover Moscow, including the famous Kremlin, with its frescoed Archangel Cathedral, Armory Museum, political offices, and historic buildings. Walk through Red Square with St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin Mausoleum. There is really nothing like seeing St. Petersburg and Moscow, and we hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to travel with other AAAS, Sigma Xi, and ACS members! Best regards, Margaret M. Betchart, President Betchart Expeditions Inc. For AAAS, Sigma Xi & ACS Land of the CZARS St. Petersburg to Moscow! August 23–September 3, 2011

  AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions Land of the CZARSin St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage

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Page 1:   AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions Land of the CZARSin St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage

Expedition Fee: From $3,495 per person twin share for 12 days, plus group air fare of approximately $1200 + tax per person from New York to Moscow and St. Petersburg, with return from Moscow to New York. Lower deck cabins have portholes; all other cabins have large panoramic windows. Lower Deck ...........................$3,495

Main Deck ..............................$3,695 Upper Deck ...........................$3,995 Junior Suite Boat Deck ............$4,595 Boat/Sun Deck .......................$4,995 Single Supplement .................$795

What to Expect: This expedition is planned for the travel enthusiast who would enjoy exploring the fascinating sights in St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage. The expedition is led by an historian and scholar who will be joined by Russian guides on shore excursions. There will be a special lecture program by Dr. Patrick Hatcher for our group, as well as Russian language lessons, music and folk dances and other entertainment on board ship.

Accommodations and travel are on board the M/V Litvinov, an excellent five-deck river cruising vessel which accommodates 250 passengers. Excursions will be by motorcoach, with exploration on foot of kremlins, museums, historic sites, churches, and natural or scenic areas (optional excursions are available for an added fee). Please be prepared to actively

explore the Hermitage and other museums and sites on foot. Daytime temperatures will be in the 70’s to 80’s with the possibility of some light rain. This expedition will be a tremendous experience for travelers with an appetite for adventure and discovery.Expedition Fee Includes: Land transport and accommodations twin share in cabin category of your preference on board M/V Litvinov; group airport transfers; all meals, activities, and group excursions on board ship; group entrance fees; baggage handling; leadership, administration.Expedition Fee Does Not Include: International air fare (quoted separately); Russian visa; optional excursions available to purchase; independent transfers; tips on board ship, alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone calls, bottled water, snacks, passport, personal insurance; or foreign airport departure taxes.M/V Litvinov: The ship was built in 1991 in Germany, specifically for river cruising and was completely refurbished to a high standard for Americans in 2001. All cabins on Main, Upper, and Boat Deck are outside with large panoramic windows. All lower deck cabins are outside with portholes. The ship provides two restaurants, 3 bars, souvenir shop, beauty salon, and sauna. A conference room, laundry, and medical services are also available. There is no elevator on board. All cabins have air conditioning/heating; private en suite shower and toilet, mini-refrigerator, and a roomy wardrobe. The voltage is 220. The ship is 129 m long and 16.7 m wide.

Air Fare: Is based on a group fare from New York’s JFK International Airport to Moscow and St. Petersburg, with return from Moscow as of February 15, 2011. All bookings and ticketing from the JFK group gateway will be handled by Taunya at Betchart Expeditions Inc, (800) 252-4910. AIR FARES ARE SUBJECT TO FUEL SURCHARGES AND CHANGE until ticketed.Reservations, Deposits and Payments: Please mail the completed reservation form with a deposit of $1000 per person to: Czars Voyage 2011

Betchart Expeditions Inc. 17050 Montebello Road Cupertino, CA 95014-5435

Final payment is due June 23, 2011.Cancellations & Refunds: The initial deposit is refundable up to 60 days before departure less a handling fee of $250 per person. There is no refund for any cancellation after the 60-day period unless your space can be resold; then only a $100 per person handling fee applies. Travel Insurance will be offered and is recommended. No refunds are made for unused services.Questions? Please call Taunya DeYoung, Betchart Expeditions Inc.

Telephone: (800) 252 4910 or (408) 252 4910 Fax: (408) 252 1444

Email: [email protected] the web:

www.betchartexpeditions.com

Dear Travelers: Join us on this 13­day expedition to discover

the Land of the Czars—Russia!Led by an outstanding scholar, Dr. Patrick

Hatcher, this is an exceptional opportunity to discover the rich heritage of Russia, the warmth of the Russian people, historic cathedrals and kremlins, and the scenic countryside along the voyage route, from St. Petersburg to Moscow.

Russia’s successes in the arts, architecture, and collecting some of the world’s finest art can be seen in two of her finest cities—Moscow and St. Petersburg. Her religious heritage and historic monasteries, which were important fortresses in past centuries, can be seen today in kremlins along our voyage route in Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Goritzy.

During this expedition, we will explore St. Petersburg, the city of Peter the Great, and Moscow, which has recently celebrated its 860th anniversary. We will enjoy a 10­night voyage on the M.S. Litvinov through rivers, canals and lakes from St. Petersburg to Moscow. The ship will also serve as our floating hotel.

Dr. Patrick Hatcher, a historian and scholar, and popular leader of our last Land of the Czars voyage, will provide lectures and briefings during the trip for an extremely informative, insightful look at Russia, as we explore its magnificent cities, villages, and countryside.The Czars itinerary includes: ● St. Petersburg­­ Explore this charming city

and one of the largest museums in the world—the Hermitage—with over three million objects in three major buildings. See the Peter and Paul Fortress and enjoy strolling along the Neva River, lined by major museums and the Hermitage.

● The Voyage of the Czars, St. Petersburg to Moscow -- For seven days, traverse the rivers, canals, and lakes of Russia between St. Petersburg and Moscow, traveling along the Neva River into Lakes Ladoga and Onega and to Moscow.

● Explore three of the oldest cities in Russia, Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kostroma. Learn about the Russian countryside and village life as you travel, including the village of Goritzy.

● Traverse the two great lakes of northwestern Russia, Lakes Onega and Ladoga, and visit

the historic island museum on Kizhi Island, a charming collection of historic homes and churches, amidst tranquil pristine scenery.

● Moscow—Discover Moscow, including the famous Kremlin, with its frescoed Archangel Cathedral, Armory Museum, political offices, and historic buildings. Walk through Red Square with St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin Mausoleum.

There is really nothing like seeing St. Petersburg and Moscow, and we hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to travel with other AAAS, Sigma Xi, and ACS members!Best regards,

Margaret M. Betchart, President Betchart Expeditions Inc. For AAAS, Sigma Xi & ACS

Join us on the Voyage in the Land of the CZARSAugust 23–September 3, 2011

Costs & Conditions

Land of the CZARSSt. Petersburg to Moscow!

August 23–September 3, 2011

AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions

BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc. 17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5435

FIRST CLASS

Page 2:   AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions Land of the CZARSin St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage

Yes! I/We want to join the Land of the Czars Expedition, August 23– September 3, 2011. Please reserve _____ space(s) on the expedition. As a deposit, I/we have enclosed a check for $_____________ ($1,000 per person), payable to Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account.

Name(s) ____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____

____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____

Address _______________________________________________________________

City _________________________________________ State _____ Zip ___________

Phone: Home (_____) __________________ Work (_____) _____________________

Email Address __________________________________________________________

Membership: ___ AAAS ___ Sigma Xi ___ ACS ___ Planetary SocietyAccommodations aboard the M/V Litvinov are per person based on share of cabin (indicate 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice). ___ Lower Deck ................ $3,495 ___ Junior Suite Boat Deck .............$4,595

___ Main Deck .................. $3,695 ___ Boat/Sun Deck ........................$4,995___ Upper Deck ................. $3,995 ___ Single SupplementDeck ...........$795

Accommodations Preference: ____ Twin ____ Single ____ Twin Share ____ with a friend or

____ Nonsmoker ____ Smoker ____ assign a roommate

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________Mail To: Land of the Czars 2011, Betchart Expeditions Inc.

17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5345

son of Ivan the Terrible, who died here in 1591. Also on the kremlin grounds are the five-domed Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior, and the 15th century Prince’s Chambers.Days 10/11 Moscow’s

Kremlin & Red Square

We will arrive in Moscow on the afternoon of Day 10, and will begin to explore the splendors of the Czarist period in this fascinating city. We will have an introductory tour of the city and Kremlin visit the next day. Of special interest on the city tour will be seeing the church of Christ the Savior, a spectacular gold-domed reconstruc-tion of the famous Cathedral destroyed during the 1917 revolution and only rebuilt in the 1990’s.

The Moscow Kremlin was established over 800 years ago and was once the center for the Russian church as well as state. The Cathedral of the Assumption is the most outstanding of the Kremlin’s older buildings, designed by an Italian master. Here coronations took place and important government announce-ments and solemn state ceremonies were performed.

We will also explore the central district of Moscow, including Red Square and see St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its fanciful domes, erected in 1561. St. Basil’s is the most photographed cathedral in Russia and has one of the most fanciful, enchanting appearances in the world.

Day 5 Voyage of the Czars—Mandrogy & Svirstroy

This morning, we will enjoy our cruise lecture program, Russian lessons or other activities on board ship. We will cross Lake Ladoga, one of the two immense lakes which we will travel through. At midday, we will stop at a nature preserve in Mandrogy at a scenic location. We will then continue our cruise to Lake Onega.Day 6 Voyage of the Czars—

Kizhi Island, Lake OnegaWe will awaken this morning on

Lake Onega and will spend the morn-ing at the magnificent jewel of Kizhi Island. Here we will visit the outdoor Museum of Wooden Architecture, with wonderful examples of traditional wooden structures, notably the 18th century Transfiguration Cathedral whose walls and 22 cupolas were built with no nails. Next door is the nine-domed Church of the Intercession built in 1764. The 19th Century peasant houses are nicely restored inside. Kizhi Island was once a pagan ritual site. Today, Lake Onega is popular with boaters and vacationers.Day 7 Voyage of the Czars—

GoritzyMuch of the enjoyment of a cruise in

Russia is enjoying the countryside and small village life. This afternoon we will visit Goritzy, see its shops and markets and explore the Kirillov Monastery. Then continue by ship through rivers and canals toward Yaroslavl.

Day 8 Voyage of the Czars—Yaroslavl

Pat Hatcher’s lecture program and other shipboard activities will continue this morning as we cruise to Yaroslavl. In 1010 Prince Yaroslavl took an interest in a strategic trading post where the Kotorosi River enters the Volga. Legend says that the locals responded by setting a bear on him, which he killed and then founded the town of Yaroslavl on the spot. Its coast of arms features the bear and ax. Due to its excellent location for trade and commerce, Yaroslavl prospered in the 13th to 17th centuries as the Volga’s premiere port. Its merchants built churches to complete with those in Moscow. Our city tour today will include a visit to the churches, with their bright decoration and beau tifully frescoed interiors. A highlight in the city is the Monastery of the Transfiguration, founded in the 12th Century, one of Russia’s richest and best fortified monasteries by the 1500’s.Day 9 Voyage of the

Czars—Uglich Late this morning, we will be in the Volga River commu-nity of Uglich, one of Russia’s oldest towns. We will visit the Uglich Kremlin, including the red Church of St. Dmitry-on-the-Blood with its blue spangled domes which was built to commemorate Crown Prince Dmitri, the youngest

Days 1/2 New York to St. Petersburg

Depart New York’s JFK International Airport today, arriving in Moscow on Day 2, with a flight connection to St. Petersburg. Transfer to your river cruise ship, M/V Litvinov (10 nights). Welcome dinner and introductions.Day 3 St. Petersburg

We will explore this exquisite city today. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, St. Petersburg was a “window” to Europe for Russia. Its location on the Baltic Sea gave a foothold to Europe to continue Peter’s fascination with the west and its many cultures and scientific advancements. Today, we will explore the “Northern Capital,” a lovely city famous for its palaces and gardens, including the Winter Palace, the former residence of the Russian Czar (which is now part of the Hermitage Museum). We will have a city tour and also see the Peter and Paul Fortress, burial site of the Romanov Czars and royal family, situated on the Neva River. Accom-modations and meals are on board M/V Litvinov.Day 4 The Hermitage

St. Petersburg is a charming city of magnificent museums, canals, and bridges, with wonderful views across the Neva River toward the Hermitage, the Summer Gardens, and other magnificent museum buildings. Today, we will visit the Hermitage, one of the world’s finest museums. The Hermitage was the Czar’s Winter Palace and is home to nearly three million major objects in six departments: West European Art, Antique World, Primitive Culture, Oriental Culture, and Art, the History of Russia, and Numismatics. We will explore the city and see its numerous canals and enjoy the colorful, gilded domed churches. The shops and street artists on Nevski Avenue are a treat! Return to the ship for dinner and our departure at 8 pm. We will begin our voyage as we cruise toward Mandrogy.

Reservations #1172

Itinerary Land of the CZARS!

Responsibility: Betchart Expeditions Inc., the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, and the American Chemical Society (ACS) act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transpor­tation and hotels, and exercise every care possible. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, delay, loss, accident or irregularity in connec tion with the services of any airplane, ship, motorcoach, or any other conveyance used in carrying out the arrangements of the tour. The operation of the ship is solely the responsibility of Gvidon Tours. We cannot accept any responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, terrorism, acts of God, or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to substitute another leader of similar exper tise or reserve the right to cancel any tour prior to departure, in which case the entire payment will be refunded with no further obliga tion on our part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any per son as a member of the tour. No refund will be made for the unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. The price of the program is based on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, or fuel increases will be passed on to parti cipants. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entire ly. It is understood that the air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance.©2011 Betchart Expeditions Inc. All rights reserved. Map by April Milne. CST# 2036304-40

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Optional tours in Moscow may include the Tretyakov Gallery, which houses the artistic treasures of Russian culture. It has the world’s greatest collection of Russian art and icons. Farewell dinner in celebration of our journey this evening!

Day 12 Moscow to JFKAfter breakfast, disembark and

transfer to the airport for our return flights to the USA.

Page 3:   AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions Land of the CZARSin St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage

Yes! I/We want to join the Land of the Czars Expedition, August 23– September 3, 2011. Please reserve _____ space(s) on the expedition. As a deposit, I/we have enclosed a check for $_____________ ($1,000 per person), payable to Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account.

Name(s) ____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____

____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____

Address _______________________________________________________________

City _________________________________________ State _____ Zip ___________

Phone: Home (_____) __________________ Work (_____) _____________________

Email Address __________________________________________________________

Membership: ___ AAAS ___ Sigma Xi ___ ACS ___ Planetary SocietyAccommodations aboard the M/V Litvinov are per person based on share of cabin (indicate 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice). ___ Lower Deck ................ $3,495 ___ Junior Suite Boat Deck .............$4,595

___ Main Deck .................. $3,695 ___ Boat/Sun Deck ........................$4,995___ Upper Deck ................. $3,995 ___ Single SupplementDeck ...........$795

Accommodations Preference: ____ Twin ____ Single ____ Twin Share ____ with a friend or

____ Nonsmoker ____ Smoker ____ assign a roommate

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________Mail To: Land of the Czars 2011, Betchart Expeditions Inc.

17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5345

son of Ivan the Terrible, who died here in 1591. Also on the kremlin grounds are the five-domed Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior, and the 15th century Prince’s Chambers.Days 10/11 Moscow’s

Kremlin & Red Square

We will arrive in Moscow on the afternoon of Day 10, and will begin to explore the splendors of the Czarist period in this fascinating city. We will have an introductory tour of the city and Kremlin visit the next day. Of special interest on the city tour will be seeing the church of Christ the Savior, a spectacular gold-domed reconstruc-tion of the famous Cathedral destroyed during the 1917 revolution and only rebuilt in the 1990’s.

The Moscow Kremlin was established over 800 years ago and was once the center for the Russian church as well as state. The Cathedral of the Assumption is the most outstanding of the Kremlin’s older buildings, designed by an Italian master. Here coronations took place and important government announce-ments and solemn state ceremonies were performed.

We will also explore the central district of Moscow, including Red Square and see St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its fanciful domes, erected in 1561. St. Basil’s is the most photographed cathedral in Russia and has one of the most fanciful, enchanting appearances in the world.

Day 5 Voyage of the Czars—Mandrogy & Svirstroy

This morning, we will enjoy our cruise lecture program, Russian lessons or other activities on board ship. We will cross Lake Ladoga, one of the two immense lakes which we will travel through. At midday, we will stop at a nature preserve in Mandrogy at a scenic location. We will then continue our cruise to Lake Onega.Day 6 Voyage of the Czars—

Kizhi Island, Lake OnegaWe will awaken this morning on

Lake Onega and will spend the morn-ing at the magnificent jewel of Kizhi Island. Here we will visit the outdoor Museum of Wooden Architecture, with wonderful examples of traditional wooden structures, notably the 18th century Transfiguration Cathedral whose walls and 22 cupolas were built with no nails. Next door is the nine-domed Church of the Intercession built in 1764. The 19th Century peasant houses are nicely restored inside. Kizhi Island was once a pagan ritual site. Today, Lake Onega is popular with boaters and vacationers.Day 7 Voyage of the Czars—

GoritzyMuch of the enjoyment of a cruise in

Russia is enjoying the countryside and small village life. This afternoon we will visit Goritzy, see its shops and markets and explore the Kirillov Monastery. Then continue by ship through rivers and canals toward Yaroslavl.

Day 8 Voyage of the Czars—Yaroslavl

Pat Hatcher’s lecture program and other shipboard activities will continue this morning as we cruise to Yaroslavl. In 1010 Prince Yaroslavl took an interest in a strategic trading post where the Kotorosi River enters the Volga. Legend says that the locals responded by setting a bear on him, which he killed and then founded the town of Yaroslavl on the spot. Its coast of arms features the bear and ax. Due to its excellent location for trade and commerce, Yaroslavl prospered in the 13th to 17th centuries as the Volga’s premiere port. Its merchants built churches to complete with those in Moscow. Our city tour today will include a visit to the churches, with their bright decoration and beau tifully frescoed interiors. A highlight in the city is the Monastery of the Transfiguration, founded in the 12th Century, one of Russia’s richest and best fortified monasteries by the 1500’s.Day 9 Voyage of the

Czars—Uglich Late this morning, we will be in the Volga River commu-nity of Uglich, one of Russia’s oldest towns. We will visit the Uglich Kremlin, including the red Church of St. Dmitry-on-the-Blood with its blue spangled domes which was built to commemorate Crown Prince Dmitri, the youngest

Days 1/2 New York to St. Petersburg

Depart New York’s JFK International Airport today, arriving in Moscow on Day 2, with a flight connection to St. Petersburg. Transfer to your river cruise ship, M/V Litvinov (10 nights). Welcome dinner and introductions.Day 3 St. Petersburg

We will explore this exquisite city today. Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, St. Petersburg was a “window” to Europe for Russia. Its location on the Baltic Sea gave a foothold to Europe to continue Peter’s fascination with the west and its many cultures and scientific advancements. Today, we will explore the “Northern Capital,” a lovely city famous for its palaces and gardens, including the Winter Palace, the former residence of the Russian Czar (which is now part of the Hermitage Museum). We will have a city tour and also see the Peter and Paul Fortress, burial site of the Romanov Czars and royal family, situated on the Neva River. Accom-modations and meals are on board M/V Litvinov.Day 4 The Hermitage

St. Petersburg is a charming city of magnificent museums, canals, and bridges, with wonderful views across the Neva River toward the Hermitage, the Summer Gardens, and other magnificent museum buildings. Today, we will visit the Hermitage, one of the world’s finest museums. The Hermitage was the Czar’s Winter Palace and is home to nearly three million major objects in six departments: West European Art, Antique World, Primitive Culture, Oriental Culture, and Art, the History of Russia, and Numismatics. We will explore the city and see its numerous canals and enjoy the colorful, gilded domed churches. The shops and street artists on Nevski Avenue are a treat! Return to the ship for dinner and our departure at 8 pm. We will begin our voyage as we cruise toward Mandrogy.

Reservations #1172

Itinerary Land of the CZARS!

Responsibility: Betchart Expeditions Inc., the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, and the American Chemical Society (ACS) act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transpor­tation and hotels, and exercise every care possible. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, delay, loss, accident or irregularity in connec tion with the services of any airplane, ship, motorcoach, or any other conveyance used in carrying out the arrangements of the tour. The operation of the ship is solely the responsibility of Gvidon Tours. We cannot accept any responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, terrorism, acts of God, or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates provide for arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to substitute another leader of similar exper tise or reserve the right to cancel any tour prior to departure, in which case the entire payment will be refunded with no further obliga tion on our part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any per son as a member of the tour. No refund will be made for the unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. The price of the program is based on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, or fuel increases will be passed on to parti cipants. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entire ly. It is understood that the air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance.©2011 Betchart Expeditions Inc. All rights reserved. Map by April Milne. CST# 2036304-40

&SIG

MA X

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SExpeditionsTH

E SCIEN

TIFIC R

ESEAR

CH

SOC

IETY Optional tours in Moscow may include the Tretyakov Gallery, which houses the artistic treasures of Russian culture. It has the world’s greatest collection of Russian art and icons. Farewell dinner in celebration of our journey this evening!

Day 12 Moscow to JFKAfter breakfast, disembark and

transfer to the airport for our return flights to the USA.

Page 4:   AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions Land of the CZARSin St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage

Expedition Fee: From $3,495 per person twin share for 12 days, plus group air fare of approximately $1200 + tax per person from New York to Moscow and St. Petersburg, with return from Moscow to New York. Lower deck cabins have portholes; all other cabins have large panoramic windows. Lower Deck ...........................$3,495

Main Deck ..............................$3,695 Upper Deck ...........................$3,995 Junior Suite Boat Deck ............$4,595 Boat/Sun Deck .......................$4,995 Single Supplement .................$795

What to Expect: This expedition is planned for the travel enthusiast who would enjoy exploring the fascinating sights in St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s unique history and cultural heritage. The expedition is led by an historian and scholar who will be joined by Russian guides on shore excursions. There will be a special lecture program by Dr. Patrick Hatcher for our group, as well as Russian language lessons, music and folk dances and other entertainment on board ship.

Accommodations and travel are on board the M/V Litvinov, an excellent five-deck river cruising vessel which accommodates 250 passengers. Excursions will be by motorcoach, with exploration on foot of kremlins, museums, historic sites, churches, and natural or scenic areas (optional excursions are available for an added fee). Please be prepared to actively

explore the Hermitage and other museums and sites on foot. Daytime temperatures will be in the 70’s to 80’s with the possibility of some light rain. This expedition will be a tremendous experience for travelers with an appetite for adventure and discovery.Expedition Fee Includes: Land transport and accommodations twin share in cabin category of your preference on board M/V Litvinov; group airport transfers; all meals, activities, and group excursions on board ship; group entrance fees; baggage handling; leadership, administration.Expedition Fee Does Not Include: International air fare (quoted separately); Russian visa; optional excursions available to purchase; independent transfers; tips on board ship, alcoholic beverages, laundry, phone calls, bottled water, snacks, passport, personal insurance; or foreign airport departure taxes.M/V Litvinov: The ship was built in 1991 in Germany, specifically for river cruising and was completely refurbished to a high standard for Americans in 2001. All cabins on Main, Upper, and Boat Deck are outside with large panoramic windows. All lower deck cabins are outside with portholes. The ship provides two restaurants, 3 bars, souvenir shop, beauty salon, and sauna. A conference room, laundry, and medical services are also available. There is no elevator on board. All cabins have air conditioning/heating; private en suite shower and toilet, mini-refrigerator, and a roomy wardrobe. The voltage is 220. The ship is 129 m long and 16.7 m wide.

Air Fare: Is based on a group fare from New York’s JFK International Airport to Moscow and St. Petersburg, with return from Moscow as of February 15, 2011. All bookings and ticketing from the JFK group gateway will be handled by Taunya at Betchart Expeditions Inc, (800) 252-4910. AIR FARES ARE SUBJECT TO FUEL SURCHARGES AND CHANGE until ticketed.Reservations, Deposits and Payments: Please mail the completed reservation form with a deposit of $1000 per person to: Czars Voyage 2011

Betchart Expeditions Inc. 17050 Montebello Road Cupertino, CA 95014-5435

Final payment is due June 23, 2011.Cancellations & Refunds: The initial deposit is refundable up to 60 days before departure less a handling fee of $250 per person. There is no refund for any cancellation after the 60-day period unless your space can be resold; then only a $100 per person handling fee applies. Travel Insurance will be offered and is recommended. No refunds are made for unused services.Questions? Please call Taunya DeYoung, Betchart Expeditions Inc.

Telephone: (800) 252 4910 or (408) 252 4910 Fax: (408) 252 1444

Email: [email protected] the web:

www.betchartexpeditions.com

Dear Travelers: Join us on this 13­day expedition to discover

the Land of the Czars—Russia!Led by an outstanding scholar, Dr. Patrick

Hatcher, this is an exceptional opportunity to discover the rich heritage of Russia, the warmth of the Russian people, historic cathedrals and kremlins, and the scenic countryside along the voyage route, from St. Petersburg to Moscow.

Russia’s successes in the arts, architecture, and collecting some of the world’s finest art can be seen in two of her finest cities—Moscow and St. Petersburg. Her religious heritage and historic monasteries, which were important fortresses in past centuries, can be seen today in kremlins along our voyage route in Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Goritzy.

During this expedition, we will explore St. Petersburg, the city of Peter the Great, and Moscow, which has recently celebrated its 860th anniversary. We will enjoy a 10­night voyage on the M.S. Litvinov through rivers, canals and lakes from St. Petersburg to Moscow. The ship will also serve as our floating hotel.

Dr. Patrick Hatcher, a historian and scholar, and popular leader of our last Land of the Czars voyage, will provide lectures and briefings during the trip for an extremely informative, insightful look at Russia, as we explore its magnificent cities, villages, and countryside.The Czars itinerary includes: ● St. Petersburg­­ Explore this charming city

and one of the largest museums in the world—the Hermitage—with over three million objects in three major buildings. See the Peter and Paul Fortress and enjoy strolling along the Neva River, lined by major museums and the Hermitage.

● The Voyage of the Czars, St. Petersburg to Moscow -- For seven days, traverse the rivers, canals, and lakes of Russia between St. Petersburg and Moscow, traveling along the Neva River into Lakes Ladoga and Onega and to Moscow.

● Explore three of the oldest cities in Russia, Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kostroma. Learn about the Russian countryside and village life as you travel, including the village of Goritzy.

● Traverse the two great lakes of northwestern Russia, Lakes Onega and Ladoga, and visit

the historic island museum on Kizhi Island, a charming collection of historic homes and churches, amidst tranquil pristine scenery.

● Moscow—Discover Moscow, including the famous Kremlin, with its frescoed Archangel Cathedral, Armory Museum, political offices, and historic buildings. Walk through Red Square with St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin Mausoleum.

There is really nothing like seeing St. Petersburg and Moscow, and we hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to travel with other AAAS, Sigma Xi, and ACS members!Best regards,

Margaret M. Betchart, President Betchart Expeditions Inc. For AAAS, Sigma Xi & ACS

Join us on the Voyage in the Land of the CZARSAugust 23–September 3, 2011

Costs & Conditions

Land of the CZARSSt. Petersburg to Moscow!

August 23–September 3, 2011

AAAS Travels ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions

BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc. 17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5435

FIRST CLASS