2011 Travel Guide

A s the former owner of Gray Line of Houston, Lanny Rogers founded First Class Tours in 1998. His decision to begin another business was made after discovering retirement was not for him and his continued desire to provide a high-value transportation product in the marketplace. His past successes as

the owner of Gray Line of Houston included the successful operation of over 100 motorcoaches in the Houston market and the employment of management, sales, and maintenance staff numbering over 300.

First Class Tours began with one motorcoach. That’s right, only one! This motorcoach was the humble beginnings of a company that now operates over 25 motorcoaches and provides transportation services nation-wide. Over the years of operation, First Class Tours has provided a great value in the marketplace. The current fleet has an average age of less than five years. The young age of our fleet has reduced mechanical problems experienced by customers, as well as provided them with a great experience in an up to date and modern motorcoach.

Customer safety and comfort is top priority. As a result, First Class Tours has a robust safety and maintenance department which is responsible for driver instruction and all motorcoach repair and maintenance. First Class Tours is proud of the safety ratings our employees have earned. We have received the highest rating possible by both the Texas Department of Transportation and the United States Department of Transportation. Many First Class drivers have over twenty years of experience driving a motorcoach and have earned perfect safety records. All drivers are monitored to insure 100% compliance with all Department of Transportation regulations. In addition, drivers are required to attend regular safety meetings where strict compliance to safety protocol and courteous customer service is emphasized. All First Class Tours coaches are equipped with many features to increase passenger safety and comfort on a trip. A few of these features are:

wGlobal Positioning Satellite (GPS) – Allows the monitoring and locating of all the fleet.

wTwo way radios – enables communication with other FCT coaches and our base station.

wDVD and CD equipment – Allows for video/audio entertainment and instruction.

wXM Radio – Allows for a variety of entertainment, weather, and news options.

wSeating capacities – Ranges from 44 to 69 passengers.

wOn-board restroom facilities. With broad industry experience, First Class Tours is equipped to handle motorcoach transportation needs for all types of groups and backgrounds. Among our past customer groups are:wStudent & Youth Travelers

wBank Travel Groups

wCasino & Gaming Groups

wReligious Travel Groups

wCorporate Outings

wConvention & Conference Shuttles

wGroup Tour Planners First Class Tours encourages you to come and “Let Us Take You There…”

Our History

Jean Rogers, VP

Lanny Rogers, owner

2 First Class Tours

www.firstclasstours.net

Table of Contents

TOURS OF AMERICA

First Class Tours 3Tel: 281-590-8800

Eureka, Springs AR ....................................................... 21Cripple Creek, CO ........................................................ 22Durango/Silverton, CO ................................................ 23 Washington, DC .......................................................... 24Amelia Island/St. Augustine/Jacksonville, FL ............... 25Destin, FL ..................................................................... 26 Key West, FL ............................................................... 27Orlando, FL .................................................................. 28Savannah, GA .............................................................. 29Chicago, IL ................................................................... 30Natchitoches, LA .......................................................... 31New Orleans, LA ......................................................... 32Tulip Festival, MI .......................................................... 33Minneapolis, MN ......................................................... 34Branson, MO ............................................................... 35Branson, MO Express .................................................. 36Branson, MO Christmas Tour ....................................... 37River Road & Natchez Trace, MS ................................. 38 Reno, NV - Lake Tahoe ................................................. 39New York, NY ............................................................... 40Niagara Falls, NY .......................................................... 41 Myrtle Beach, SC ......................................................... 42 Nashville/Memphis, TN ............................................... 43

Austin, TX .................................................................... 56Golden Triangle (Beaumont, Port Arthur & Orange) ........ 57Corpus Christi, TX ........................................................ 58Dallas, TX ..................................................................... 59East Texas (Kilgore) ....................................................... 60Forth Worth, TX ........................................................... 61Fredericksburg, TX ....................................................... 62 Galveston, TX ............................................................... 63Houston, TX ................................................................. 64New Braunfels, TX ....................................................... 65Messina Hof & George Bush Library ............................ 66San Antonio, TX ........................................................... 67 Schulenburg, TX ........................................................... 68Southern Empress on Lake Conroe.............................. 69Texas State Railroad ..................................................... 69South Padre Island, TX ................................................. 70State Fair of Texas ........................................................ 71Waco, TX ...................................................................... 72

Pricing Includes: round trip motorcoach transportation, lodging (for trips with overnight stays), driver & escort tips, luggage handling, and admission to listed attractions when applicable. Please note that price, attractions, tours, itinerary and hotels are subject to change without notice.

Black History Tour ........................................................ 48Blues Highway ............................................................. 49 Cajun Tour ................................................................... 50 Southern Swing Tour ................................................... 51Christmas Tours (natchitoches/san marcos/santa’s wonderland) .... 52Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg ............................. 53Grapevine, TX Christmas Tour ..................................... 54Fall Foliage Tour ........................................................... 55

TEXAS TOURS

SPECIALTY TOURS

GAMING TOURS

CHARTER SERVICES

Grand Canyon & Sedona, AZ ...................................... 44Big Bend, TX ............................................................... 45Palo Duro Canyon ........................................................ 46Yellowstone, Badlands, Grand Tetons .......................... 47

Our History .................................................................. 2Table of contents ......................................................... 3Motorcoach travel advantages .................................... 4Questions you should ask ............................................ 5Frequently asked questions ...................................... 6 - 7Daily Casino Trips ........................................................... 8Casino Departure Locations .......................................... 9Overnight Casino Trips ................................................. 10Travel Insurance Information ....................................... 112011 Tour Schedule .............................................. 12 - 13

Las Vegas Excursion, NV .............................................. 14Las Vegas Express, NV .................................................. 15Las Vegas Extravagant, NV ........................................... 16 Biloxi MS ...................................................................... 17 Tunica, MS ................................................................... 18Hard Rock, Tulsa OK ..................................................... 19Atlantic City, NJ ............................................................ 20

NATIONAL PARKS

STUDENT TOURS Student Tours ............................................................. 73Religious Tours ........................................................... 74

Motorcoach AdvantagesIf cross-country speed is your only concern, First Class Tours admits you need to look elsewhere. But if you really want to SEE America; if you want to experience the excitement of its cities; feel the glory of its landscape; share the warmth of America’s communities, it can’t be done from 30,000 feet. You should be traveling by luxury motorcoach.

TOP TEN REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD TRAVEL BY AFIRST CLASS MOTORCOACH

1. We do the driving. You’re free from the hassles of traffic, road maps, parking and backseat drivers. You’re finally free to enjoy the travel while a professional driver handles the wheel.

2. Finally. YOU can see the sights. What good is it to drive through the scenic mountains or a national park if you are concentrating on driving? In a motorcoach, you enjoy the scenery from your window.

3. Sleep if you’d like. First Class provides you with comfortable recliner seats. This is what luxury travel used to be like.

4. Socialize with friends. If you’d rather visit with friends and fellow travelers, you can. There’s no better way to meet new acquaintances or to enjoy the company of old friends than the adventure traveling together.

5. Enjoy a movie. Can’t sleep? Not up to conversation? In most cases, you can enjoy a full-length feature film or videos of your group’s own activities while you travel.

6. Save money. There is no more economical way to travel. You’ll be surprised to find the great value of traveling with First Class Tours. In most cases, each traveler’s share of the cost of a professional motorcoach will be far less than other modes of transportation.

7. Door-to-door service. There’s no substitute for the tremendous convenience of a motorcoach’s door-to-door service. Your charter coach can pick up and deliver you in style. No long security lines and no long walks from the parking lot to the door.

8. Consider the environment. Seeing America responsibly also means leaving the beauty intact for the next generation. Today’s motorcoach has become both fuel efficient and environmentally-sound. On a per passenger basis, a modern motorcoach is among the cleanest modes of transportation in the world.

9. Safety...Safety...Safety... In the professional motorcoach industry, there is nothing more important than safety. Accident statistics maintained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, part of the USDOT) bear this out year after year.

10. You love to be surprised. Frankly, if your last trip by motorcoach was more than five years ago, you have a treat in store. Today’s modern motorcoach is a delight, and we will delight in surprising you.

Forget about traffic!

Relax inside your motorcoach

Let us show you a great time!

4 First Class Tours


Questions you should ask1. Can you provide your company’s U.S. DOT number?First Class Tours DOT #774995. This number can be used to look up company information.

2. Does your company have federal authority to cross state lines? Yes, this information can be found at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website using our DOT #774995.

3. Can you provide proof of valid liability insurance that provides an industry minimum of $5 million in coverage? First Class Tours maintains liability insurance coverage that exceeds Department of Transportation requirements. Proof of insurance can be provided upon request.

4. How often are your buses inspected for safety? First Class Tours maintains pre-trip and post-trip safety inspections. Also, First Class Tours calls for their own DOT inspections. We do not wait for them to call us.

5. Does your company adhere to the federal “Hours of Service” guidelines for drivers? Long or quick turn-around trips may require additional drivers. First Class Tours insures drivers are within all federal safety guidelines regarding hours of service.

6. What is your company’s safety record? First Class Tours has an outstanding safety record in the industry and will gladly answer your questions regarding our record.

7. Does your company comply with the FMCSA - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration pre-trip safety messaging? First Class Tours provides a safety presentation prior to each trip pointing out safety features and procedures.

8. Does your company use re-tread tires on ANY of the wheels of your buses? First Class Tours will never use any re-tread tire on any wheel.

9. Does your company have a Safety Officer? First Class Tours employs a Safety Officer and Driver Instructor. In addition, driver log books are verified daily by our Safety Officer to insure driver compliance to federal regulations.

10. What are your professional associations?

Safety inspections

We take pride in safety

Houston www.VisitHoustonTexas.com

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National Tour Association (NTA) – The National Tour Association is a trade organization of thousands of tourism professionals involved in the growth and development of the packaged travel industry. NTA’s rich history and high standards make NTA members an elite group of industry leaders.

American Bus Association (ABA) - ABA represents approximately 1,000 motorcoach and tour companies in the United States and Canada. Its members operate charter, tour, regular route, airport express, special operations and contract services (commuter, school, transit).

United Motorcoach Association (UMA) - UMA is a thriving association of motorcoach owners and industry suppliers with other 1000 members located all across North America and representing companies in England, Belgium and France.

GHCVB – First Class Tours is a proud member of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Great Customer Service

How do I book travel on a Tour?Contact a First Class Tours customer service agent at the Eastex terminal to make your tour reservation. A $50 per person deposit on most tours is required; final payment due 45 days prior to departure. Special deposit and payment policies may apply to some tours as noted. You will be reminded of your final payment deadline by mail. At that time, you will receive all scheduled hotels, including addresses and telephone numbers and general information concerning the weather and clothing. Prices are subject to increase until final payment is received.

Do I have to plan to tip the driver or the on-board escort?Unless otherwise stated, all tips for services rendered are paid by First Class Tours, Inc. Tips for Step-On guides are not included in the price of the tour.

For a tour, where can I park my vehicle?All tours depart from our Eastex Freeway Terminal. At this location, there is ample parking that is well lit and fenced. Parking at the Eastex Terminal is free and at your own risk.

What is NOT included in the price of a Tour?Meals not specifically listed in the itinerary, alcoholic beverages, telephone calls, room service and other items of a personal nature, such as valet or laundry service, are not included as well as incidentals incurred at the hotel.

What is the difference between single, double, triple and quad accommodations?Please understand that a “single” reservation means single accommodations at the hotels, and does not guarantee two seats on the motorcoach. Be advised that triple or quad accommodations at the hotels will be two beds only. It does not cover the cost of a rollaway.

Can I choose my seat on the motorcoach for my tour?Seating requests will be honored in the order of when the reservation was received into our office. Please request front, middle, rear, aisle, window seat at time of making your tour reservation. We will make every attempt to keep members of your party together. Odd numbered groups may be seated across from,

or in front of each other, and/or matched with other odd-numbered groups to avoid single seats scattered throughout the motorcoach. We are unable to reserve seats for special needs such as motion sickness. If you have a special need, it is best to check with your doctor for advice. Also, you may wish to make your reservation early to secure a seat which may alleviate your problem. Legroom varies throughout the coach and cannot be guaranteed for any passenger.

What happens if my travel partner cancels?If a single room must be assigned because your roommate cancels (even at the last moment or while on the tour), we must out of necessity charge you the additional hotel charges since the hotels make no allowance. Likewise, if one of three or four roommates cancels, resulting in double or triple occupancy, your final billing must be based on the double or triple occupancy.

What luggage can I bring?We must limit luggage to one large bag per person, weighing no more than 50 pounds per person, and one small (overnight) bag per person. We require that no hanging garment bags be used. You may also carry one small bag – without wheels, not larger than 8” X 17” X 20” – on board as well as one small ice chest, not larger than 8” X 11” X 12”. Any carry-on bag or other personal property (including ice chest) is solely your responsibility and First Class Tours cannot be held liable if lost or stolen. We are sorry; no luggage accepted on daily casino trips!

Can travelers use tobacco or consume alcohol while on the motorcoach?No smoking, chewing tobacco or open liquor is allowed on the motorcoach. Frequent rest/meal stops afford the opportunities to smoke outside the coach. Additionally, smoking in non-smoking rooms is not allowed. Any cleaning charges for violating hotel policy will be your responsibility and charged back to you.

What about inspirational moments?Tour Directors are permitted to share a moment of non-denominational inspiration with full cognizance of the divergence of beliefs of individual passengers.

Can First Class Tours guarantee special requests made to the hotels?We will try to accommodate special requests at the hotels. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee certain hotel rooms, their location, or their specific features.

Frequently asked Questions

Enjoying a Tour

Luggage

6 First Class Tours


I have a physical disability; can I still travel with First Class Tours?Tour participants who require any form of personal assistance must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing such assistance. Tour directors and drivers cannot assist with individual, medical, or personal needs. Persons with severe dietary restrictions are advised that special diet orders cannot be accommodated. Fold-up scooters or walkers will be allowed on a first-come, first-serve basis and must be mentioned at the time of booking.

I have read your itinerary; will that be the exact itinerary the tour follows?Between tour planning time and actual tour operation, our Tour Department constantly strives to improve each itinerary to add to your convenience and enjoyment. If improvements can be made, or if unforeseen conditions beyond our control deem change necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and substitute facilities or attractions of equivalent or better value. During national or local holidays, certain listed features such as museums, shopping opportunities, or special tours may be limited or unavailable. In the event of cancellation of any scheduled outdoor show or event for any cause, we will attempt to provide suitable substitute attractions. Price is subject to increase up to 30 days prior to departure.

I have received an emergency medical information form, what do I do now?Emergency Medical Information forms must be completed and returned to First Class Tours, Inc.,12703 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039, at least two weeks prior to departure of any tour.

Do I need a passport?A valid passport is required for foreign travel anywhere outside the continental United States. First Class Tours is not responsible for insuring you have appropriate documentation and any cost incurred as a result of improper documentation is your responsibility.

What is your refund policy?Cancellations occurring 45 days or more before departure result in a refund of the monies paid except for your reservation deposit. Although your deposit is non-refundable, you will receive a travel certificate that may be applied to another First Class Tour within the next 12 months.

The following policy applies for Cancellations (not covered by the optional travel insurance):

w Up to 45 Days Prior to the Departure Date: The deposit and any payments are sent back to you in the form of a travel certificate good for one year on another tour excluding daily and overnight casino trips.

w 8 to 44 Days Prior to the Departure Date: $50 per person on trips 4 days or less. $100 per person on trips of 5-9 days. $150 on trips of 10 days or more.

w 7 Days or less prior to the Departure Date: No refund.

Special policies may apply to some tours. All refundable cancellations MUST BE made during normal business hours, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Friday. If you are forced to leave a tour anytime after departure, no refunds will be made by First Class Tours, Inc.

Does First Class Tours offer travel insurance?First Class Tours offers travel insurance underwritten by Access America. For complete details on policies and coverages, please consult the Access America brochure available at First Class Tours or www.accessamerica.com

Agency ResponsibilityFirst Class Tours, Inc., Houston, Texas, acts solely as your agent arranging accommodations and attractions for your trip.No liability is assumed in connection with any transportation, restaurants or lodging used for the duration of these tours. Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged articles, including luggage or personal property. We reserve the right to cancel any tour prior to departure, and in such case, our total obligation will be only to refund all payment toward said tour. All services are subject to the laws of the country in which these services are rendered. Travel on any First Class Tours motor coach constitutes acceptance of these terms by the passenger.

Frequently asked Questions continued

Plan your tour!

Passport

Call or visit our website


DELTA DOWNS RACETRACK CASINO & HOTELVinton, LALocated just two hours from Houston, this is not your ordinary casino. Boasting an extensive collection of over 1,600 of the most popular slots and video machines, including a separate high-limit area, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel combines fast action and friendly service to provide the ultimate destination for slot aficionados.

Daily Casino Trips

Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel

L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort

Paragon Casino Resort

Coushatta Casino Resort

8 First Class Tours


L’AUBERGE DU LAC CASINO RESORT,Lake Charles, LAWith an enormous glass dome, a grand vaulted ceiling and 30,000 square feet of the best gaming around – it’s hard to believe you’re still in Lake Charles, LA. The single-level riverboat casino is one of the largest of its kind in the world, featuring more than 60 table games and 1,600 slots. From blackjack to baccarat, there’s always a game to be played.

PARAGON CASINO RESORT,Marksville, LAKnown as the “Pearl of Louisiana”, Paragon has brilliant gaming excitement on nearly 60,000 square feet of gaming floor. Slot players will go wild on over 2,000 slot machines in various denominations and jackpot sizes. Paragon has 45 table games featuring craps, roulette, blackjack, and more! And, of course, no casino would be complete without a poker room. Whatever your game is, you’ll find it at Paragon Casino Resort!Trips are available every second Friday of the month.

COUSHATTA CASINO RESORT,Kinder, LACoushatta Casino Resort boasts over 100,000 square feet of gaming floor. Known as, “Louisiana’s Best Bet!”, you can experience the thrills and excitement of this immense gaming floor, featuring the games you like, the jackpots you love, and the personal service you deserve! Over 2,800 slot machines, with reel and video slots with giant progressives with dream jackpots. Exciting Las Vegas style table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, mini-baccarat, live poker room and high stakes gaming salons are here for your gaming enjoyment.

For more information and pricing, please call 281-590-8800

Casino Departure Locations

HWY 59 DEPARTURE SCHEDULE Coushatta ............8:30 am....... ......7:30 pm ............. Every Day Coushatta........ ....1:30 pm .............12:30 am ........... Every Day Coushatta........ ....8:30 pm .............7:30 am ............. Every Day Coushatta........ ....10:00 pm ...........9:00 am ............. Wed-Sun Lauberge .............9:30 am .............7:30 pm ............. Every Day Lauberge .............7:00 pm .............5:00 am ............. Every Day Delta Downs ........9:00 am .............6:00 pm ............. Tues/Thur

DEPART RETURN

DEPART RETURN

DEPART RETURN


First Class Tours has daily scheduled departures from three convenient locations around the Houston area. Individuals and small groups are welcome on these trips. Each trip stays five hours at the casino destination, and total trip duration is approximately 10 hours. (This varies based on destination.) To travel on one of these trips, please call the desired departure location and speak to a representative.

All seating is first come, first served with a confirmation number for our daily casino trips. Confirmations will be cancelled 15 minutes prior to departure time and remaining seats, if any, will be issued to standby passengers. Recommended check-in is no later than 30 minutes prior to departure. On weekends and holidays, it is recommended you check-in at the terminal 1 hour prior to departure. All passengers must be 21 years or older and have a valid state or government identification (no photocopies accepted).

EASTEX TERMINAL - 281-590-8800

TEXAS CITY TERMINAL - 409-986-9400

FM 1960/I-45 DEPARTURE SCHEDULE Coushatta ............... 8:00 am ..............8:00 pm ............ Every Day Coushatta ............... 1:00 pm .............1:00 am ............ Every Day Coushatta ............... 8:00 pm .............8:00 am ............ Every Day Coushatta ............... 9:30 pm .............9:30 am ............ Wed-Sun Lauberge ................ 9:00 am ..............8:00 pm ............ Every Day. Lauberge ................ 6:30 pm .............5:30 am ............ Every Day Delta Downs ........... 8:30 am ..............6:30 pm ............ Tues/Thur

FM 1960/I-45 TERMINAL - 281-443-1200

1960/I-45 TERMINAL

TEXAS CITY TERMINAL

EASTEX TERMINAL

TEXAS CITY DEPARTURE SCHEDULE Coushatta .................9:00 am ..............8:30 pm .......... Mon - Sat Coushatta .................1:30 pm ..............1:30 am........... Sunday Coushatta .................7:00 pm ..............6:30 am........... Thur/Fri/Sat

12703 Eastex Freeway - Houston, TX 77039 - Coming from downtown exit Aldine Mail Rt/Lauder Rd – U turn at Lauder Rd. Coming from Humble exit Lauder Rd and stay on frontage Rd.

310 FM 1960 East Houston, TX 77073 - From I-45 exit 1960 and go east. Terminal is on right.

9300 Emmett F. Lowry Expy - Texas City, TX 77591 - From I-45 exit Emmett F. Lowry east.Terminal is in Sam’s Club parking lot.

Overnight Casino Trips

Coushatta Casino Resort

Slot Machines


Choctaw Casino Resort

10 First Class Tours


Travel with First Class Tours to the casinos and receive more! Your overnight stay includes motorcoach ride, casino perks and stay at hotel. First Class Tours will provide luggage tags for your overnight bag. Seats will be assigned by First Class Tours. Any special request must be made at the time of your booking. First Class Tours will make every effort to honor your request. Luggage size must be carry-on size. Luggage will be transferred to your hotel room upon arrival and to the motorcoach on day of departure. CANCELLATION POLICY FOR ALL TRIPS: Payment must be made at the time of reservation of your room. Payment is non-refundable unless room can be sold to another person prior to departure.

CHOCTAW CASINO RESORT, Durant, OklahomaWe warmly welcome you to Durant. Whether it’s an indulgent meal, an exciting turn in the casino or an escape at the spa, our goal is your absolute pleasure. Choctaw Casino Resort aims to set the standards for luxury in the region. Take a spin through the extravagant new Slots Gallery at the Choctaw Casino Resort. The action is intense and the vibe is pulsing with more than 4,500 machines to hit the Jackpot. Reel in the amazing variety of machines and excitement in the air that’s unmatched anywhere in the Southwest. Our hope is your stay is so welcoming, luxurious and exciting you’ll be planning your return.

PARAGON CASINO RESORT What truly makes Paragon Casino Resort the Pearl of Louisiana is the fact that it offers so much more than gaming. It’s a shimmering, fully realized retreat where you’ll discover a lavish hotel and top-notch entertainment. It’s a place where indulgence is celebrated and encouraged with a variety of delicious restaurants. It’s a lustrous getaway where dad can take in a round of 18 holes of golf and mom can spoil herself at the spa. It even has live alligators in the hotel atrium lobby.

COUSHATTA CASINO RESORTRelax in your spacious, comfortable room just steps away from the action of the casino. The Grand Inn is connected to the main casino via a beautifully landscaped promenade that culminates in the Sculpture Garden. This original sculpture was commissioned to represent the seven clans of the Coushatta Tribe: bear, beaver, bobcat, daddy longlegs, deer, panther and turkey.

For more information and pricing, please call 281-590-8800

Travel Insurance

(For Complete Details please see our brochure)

For more information please contact:

First Class Toursat281-590-8800ore-mail:[email protected]

4TRIP COST PROTECTION4Trip Cancellation - Upto$10,000.Reimbursesyouforprepaid,non-re-fundableexpensesifyoumustcancelyourtripduetoacoveredreason.4Trip Interruption - Upto$10,000.Reimbursesyoufortheunused,non-refundableportionofyourtripaswellasincreasedtransportationcostsforyoutoreturnhomeduetoacoveredreason.4Travel Delay - Upto$150perday.Receiveupto$150perdayperpersontocoveradditionalaccommo-dationandtravelexpensesorprepaidexpensesduetoadeparturedelayofsixormorehours.

MEDICAL PROTECTION4Emergency Medical and Dental $10,000.Thiscoverageprovidesforlossesduetomedicalanddentalemergenciesthatoccurduringyourtrip.Thiscoverageissecondary.4Emergency Medical Transportation $50,000.Providesmedicallyneces-sarytransportationtothenearestap-propriatefacility.Alsocoversthecostofyourtransportationbackhome.

AccessAmericaBasic PolicyBAGGAGE PROTECTION4Baggage Loss/Damage-$500.Coversloss,damage,ortheftofbaggageandpersonaleffects.

4Baggage Delay-$100.Coversthereasonableadditionalpurchaseofessentialitemsifyourbaggageisdelayedormisdirectedbyacommoncarrierfor24hoursormore.Receiptsforemergencypurchasesarerequired.

ASSISTANCE SERVICES424-HourHotlineHelpIncluded.HelpisjustaphonecallawaywithAccessAmericatravelprotection.Astaffofmulti-lingualproblemsolversisavailabletohelpyouinamedical,legal,ortravel-relatedemergency.

First Class Tours offers the Access America Basic Policy for your peace of mind. Plan your tour, purchase your ticket with confidence and take advantage of this affordable policy. Other policies and coverages are available upon request.

Your favorite Destination awaits!

America

Travel with confidence!

Medical Protection Available


2011 Schedule Gaming

Slot machines

Roulette



JanuaryChoctaw Casino, Durant OK ............................................. January 12 - 13 ........................................... see page 10Tunica, MS ....................................................................... January 17 - 20 ........................................... see page 18Las Vegas Express ............................................................ January 23 - 28 ........................................... see page 15Paragon - Marksville, LA .................................................. January 24 - 26 ........................................... see page 10Biloxi, MS - IP Casino Resort ............................................ January 31 - Feb 3 ...................................... see page 17February Choctaw Casino, Durant OK ............................................. February 16 - 17 ......................................... see page 10March Paragon (Eastex) .............................................................. March 7 – 9 ................................................ see page 10Las Vegas Express ............................................................ March 13 – 19 ............................................ see page 15Biloxi, MS - IP Casino Resort ............................................ March 14 – 17 ............................................ see page 17Tunica, MS ....................................................................... March 14 – 17 ........................................... see page 18Hard Rock, Tulsa, OK ........................................................ March 21 – 23 ............................................ see page 19Biloxi, MS - Beau Rivage ................................................. March 28 – 31 ............................................ see page 17April Paragon (TX City) ............................................................. April 4 - 6.................................................... see page 10Las Vegas Express ............................................................ April 10 - 16................................................ see page 15May Las Vegas Express ............................................................ May 22 - 28 ................................................ see page 15JuneAtlantic City, NJ. ............................................................... June 5 – 12 ................................................. see page 20Las Vegas Express ............................................................ June 12 - 18 ................................................ see page 15Paragon ........................................................................... June 13 - 15 ................................................ see page 10Choctaw Casino, Durant OK ............................................. June 20 - 21 ................................................ see page 10Las Vegas Express. ........................................................... June 26 – July 2 .......................................... see page 15JulyTunica, MS ....................................................................... July 5 – 8 .................................................... see page 18Las Vegas Express. ........................................................... July 10 – 16 ................................................ see page 15Paragon (TX City) ............................................................. July 11 – 13 ................................................ see page 10Paragon (Eastex) .............................................................. July 13 – 15 ................................................ see page 10Biloxi, MS - IP Casino Resort ............................................ July 18 – 21 ................................................ see page 17Las Vegas Excursion ......................................................... July 24 – 30 ................................................ see page 14August Choctaw Casino, Durant OK ............................................. August 2 - 3 ................................................ see page 10Las Vegas Express ............................................................ August 7 - 13 ............................................. see page 15Biloxi, MS - Beau Rivage .................................................. August 15 - 18 ........................................... see page 17Hard Rock, Tulsa, OK ........................................................ August 22 - 24 ........................................... see page 19SeptemberLas Vegas Extravagant ...................................................... September 17 - 25 ..................................... see page 16Tunica, MS ....................................................................... September 26 - 29 ..................................... see page 18October Biloxi, MS - Beau Rivage .................................................. October 3 - 6 .............................................. see page 17Las Vegas Express ............................................................ October 16 - 22 .......................................... see page 15Choctaw Casino, Durant OK ............................................ October 24 - 25 .......................................... see page 10November Las Vegas Excursion ......................................................... November 6 - 12 ........................................ see page 14Paragon ........................................................................... November 21 - 23 ...................................... see page 10December Paragon (TX City) ............................................................. December 5 - 7 .......................................... see page 10Paragon ........................................................................... December 19 - 21 ...................................... see page 10Las Vegas Express ........................................................... December 26 - 31 ...................................... see page 15

Visit Garden of the Gods

Plan your NY adventure!

2011 Schedule Sightseeing

New Orleans


JanuarySchulenburg - Painted Churches, TX. ................................ January 12 ................................................ see page 68 FebruaryCorpus Christi, TX ............................................................. February 2 - 4 ............................................ see page 58 San Antonio, TX ................................................................ February 7 - 8 ............................................ see page 67East Texas Tour ................................................................. February 21 - 22 ........................................ see page 60MarchFredericksburg, TX. ...........................................................March 23 - 24 ............................................ see page 62 AprilAmelia Island, St. Augustine .............................................April 10 - 16 ............................................... see page 25Schulenburg - Painted Churches, TX .................................April 20 ...................................................... see page 68Branson Express ...............................................................April 25 - 28 ............................................... see page 36Texas State Railroad ..........................................................April 30 ...................................................... see page 69MayCajun Tour. ........................................................................May 2 - 5 .................................................. see page 50Tulip Festival, Holland MI. ................................................May 7 - 12 ................................................. see page 33Big Bend. ..........................................................................May 16 - 19 .............................................. see page 45 Messina Hof / Bush Library, TX .........................................May 17 ...................................................... see page 66 Washington, DC. ...............................................................May 17 - 24 ............................................... see page 24Golden Triangle, TX ..........................................................May 19 - 20 ............................................... see page 57JunePalo Duro Canyon. ............................................................ June 1 – 3 .................................................. see page 46Cripple Creek, CO ............................................................. June 5 – 10 ................................................ see page 22 San Antonio (Fiesta TX). ................................................... June 13 ...................................................... see page 67Waco, TX. .......................................................................... June 15 ...................................................... see page 72Yellowstone. ..................................................................... June 19 – 29 ............................................. see page 47Branson, Express .............................................................. June 27 – 30 .............................................. see page 36Southern Empress, Conroe, TX. ........................................ June 29 ...................................................... see page 69JulyNiagara Falls. .................................................................... July 10 - 17 ................................................ see page 41Orlando, FL ....................................................................... July 17 – 23 ............................................... see page 28Durango / Silverton, CO .................................................... July 25 – 30 ............................................... see page 23AugustReno Express, NV .............................................................August 6 - 13 ............................................. see page 39Chicago, IL ........................................................................August 14 - 21 ........................................... see page 30Destin, FL .........................................................................August 15 - 18 ........................................... see page 26New Orleans, LA ...............................................................August 28 - 31 ........................................... see page 32SeptemberMessina Hof / Bush Library, TX .........................................September 7 .............................................. see page 66 New York, NY. ................................................................... September 11 - 20 ..................................... see page 40Cripple Creek, CO ............................................................. September 11 - 16 .................................... see page 22Myrtle Beach, SC. ............................................................. September 23 - 30 ..................................... see page 42OctoberState Fair of Texas .............................................................October 6, 2011 ........................................ see page 71Texas State Railroad ..........................................................October 8 .................................................. see page 69Nashville, TN. ....................................................................October 12 - 17 ......................................... see page 43 Fall Foliage ........................................................................October - 13 - 24 ....................................... see page 55Southern Empress ............................................................October 19 ................................................ see page 69Minneapolis Mall of America ...........................................October 23 - 29 ......................................... see page 34NovemberDallas, TX ..........................................................................November 1 - 2 ......................................... see page 59Waco, TX. ..........................................................................November 2 .............................................. see page 72 Branson Christmas, MO ....................................................November 15 - 19 ..................................... see page 37DecemberNatchitoches (Christmas Day Tour) ..................................December 3 ............................................... see page 52 San Marcos Outlet (Christmas Day Tour) ..........................December 10 ............................................. see page 52Santa’s Wonderland (Christmas Day Tour) .......................December 17 ............................................ see page 52Williamsburg, VA ..............................................................December 11 - 19 ...................................... see page 53

First Class ToursI N C O R P O R A T E D

Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$699.00 Single Occup; $489.00 Triple and $489.00 Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800

(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). All tours include round trip motorcoach transportation, lodging, driver & escort tips,and admission to listed attractions when applicable.

Starting from:$529

per person dbl occup. 7 days / 6 nights

Welcome to Las Vegas!

Las Vegas

Las Vegas Roulette

First Class Tours Presents July 24 - 30, 2011 / November 6 - 12, 2011

Day 1: Overnight StopSet off for the bright lights of Las Vegas. Tonight, overnight near Albuquerque, NM or Deming, NM depending on the season of your travel.

Day 2: Las Vegas, NV Arrive in Las Vegas and let the fun begin! Enjoy the gaming downtown along Fremont Street and view the Fremont Street experience on your own tonight!

Day 3: Las Vegas, NVOn your own, head to the Las Vegas Strip where your senses will be overwhelmed by the enormity of the Strip. Some of the more popular free attractions along the strip are the Fountains at Bellagio, Lion Habitat at MGM Grand, Sirens of Treasure Island, the Volcano at the Mirage, and the iconic Las Vegas sign. All this and more await your discovery.

Day 4: Las Vegas, NVLas Vegas plays host to some the best performers and live shows anywhere in the world. Enjoy a show on your own in the midst of all the shopping, gaming, and fun of Las Vegas.

Day 5: Las Vegas, NVMake the most of your last full day in Las Vegas. Take time to relax, shop, enjoy great food, or purchase souvenirs.

Day 6: Overnight StopThis morning, depart Las Vegas for Houston with an overnight near Albuquerque, NM or Deming, NM depending on the season of your travel.

Day 7: Home (B) Arrive in Houston after an exciting week of sightseeing and gaming!

OUR FAMOUS VEGAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Overnight Stops

• Free Attractions of Las Vegas

• The Las Vegas Strip

Excursion




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$499 Single Occup; $389 Triple and Quad. Occup. One day less in Las Vegas - $439 Single Occup; $329 Triple and Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


First Class Tours PresentsJan 23 - 28 / March 13 - 19 / April 10 - 16 / May 22 - 28 / June 12 - 18 / June 26 - July 2 / July 10 - 16 / August 7 - 13 / October 16 - 22 / Dec. 26 - 31 2011

Starting from:

Day 1: Coach NightSet off for the bright lights of Las Vegas. Today’s travel is to Las Vegas with an overnight on the motorcoach.

Day 2: Las Vegas, NV Arrive in Las Vegas and let the fun begin! Enjoy the gaming downtown along Fremont Street and view the Fremont Street experience on your own tonight!

Day 3: Las Vegas, NVOn your own, head to the Las Vegas Strip where your senses will be overwhelmed by the enormity of the Strip. Some of the more popular free attractions along the strip are the Fountains at Bellagio, Lion Habitat at MGM Grand, Sirens of Treasure Island, the Volcano at the Mirage, and the iconic Las Vegas sign. All this and more await your discovery.

Day 4: Las Vegas, NVLas Vegas plays host to some the best performers and live shows anywhere in the world. Enjoy a show on your own in the midst of all the shopping, gaming, and fun of Las Vegas.

Day 5: Las Vegas, NVMake the most of your last full day in Las Vegas. Take time to relax, shop, enjoy great food, or purchase souvenirs.

Day 6: Coach NightThis morning, depart Las Vegas for Houston with an overnight on the motorcoach.

Day 7: Home Arrive in Houston after an exciting week of sightseeing and gaming!

$399per person, dbl occup.

7 days / 6 nights

LAS VEGAS EXPRESS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Most Economical Las Vegas Trip

• Free Attractions of Las Vegas

• The Las Vegas Strip

Vegas Monorail

Las Vegas aerial view

Several tour dates to choose from!

ExpressLas Vegas

Starting from:$339per person, dbl occup.

6 days / 5 nights

Less one day in Vegas

First Class Tours 15


Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,799.00 Single Occup; $1,279.00 Triple and $1,249.00 Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800

(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). All tours include round trip motorcoach transportation, lodging, driver & escort tips, and admission to listed attractions when applicable.

Las VegasFirst Class Tours Presents September 17 - 25, 2011

Starting from:$1,399


VEGAS EXTRAVAGANT TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Las Vegas Strip Accommodations • Valley of Fire • Mojave National Preserve

• Las Vegas Evening Show • Mount Charleston • Joshua Tree National Park• Grand Canyon National Park • Lake Mead • General Patton Memorial Museum

Extravagant

Day 1: Amarillo, TX, MS Board the motor coach and travel across Texas to Amarillo. Tonight enjoy dinner on your own at an authentic Texas tradition the Texan Steak Ranch.

Day 2: Flagstaff, AZ (B, D) Today, embark across the Sandia mountain range of New Mexico and travel into the high plains of Flagstaff, AZ. Enjoy an included dinner at a fabulous Flagstaff restaurant.

Day 3: Las Vegas, NV (B) This morning depart Flagstaff and head to the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is one of the natural “Wonders of the World.” At its widest point, the Grand Canyon is 18 miles wide and 1 mile deep. Trust us, when we say it is a “must see.” Arrive, this late afternoon in Las Vegas for a night of fun and gaming.

Day 4: Las Vegas, NV (L)Today, embark on a sightseeing and picture taking opportunity to the Valley of Fire. The Valley of Fire

contains some the most unique windswept geologic formations in the west. Afterwards, travel to Mount Charleston for a lunch in the mountains surrounding Las Vegas. Bring, your jacket, it can get cool! You will enjoy the scenic mountain landscapes

while dining on a tasty meal.

Day 5: Las Vegas, NVYou are free! Las Vegas is yours to enjoy today! Tonight, make plans to join us for an authentic Las Vegas show!

Day 6: Las Vegas, NV This morning depart for a cruise on Lake Mead. Lake Mead was formed by the Colorado River upon the completion of Hoover Dam. It provides water, recreation, and fishing to the area. There are breathtaking views while you cruise and relax on this beautiful lake. On the way back to the Las Vegas strip, have a “sweet” stop at Ethel M. Chocolates.

Day 7: Phoenix, AZ (B, D) Get ready to roll! This morning depart to two unique National Parks in the United States. You will enjoy the driving tours of the Mojave National Preserve and the Joshua Tree National Park. You journey today will take you from Nevada, to California and into Arizona for an overnight stay near Phoenix. Enjoy an included dinner.

Day 8: Fort Stockton, TX (B,D) Today, cross southern New Mexico to Texas arriving in Fort Stockton, TX for an overnight stop. Fort Stockton grew up around Comanche Springs, at one time the third largest source of spring water in Texas, and near the military fort founded in 1859 and named for Robert Field Stockton. The fort was originally garrisoned by Company H of the First United States Infantry. Enjoy an included dinner.

Day 9: Home (B)Get aboard this morning and head for Houston. Arrive in Houston this evening.

Welcome to Las Vegas!

Roulette




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.Beau Rivage - $499 Single Occup; $309 Triple and Quad. Occup.IP Biloxi - $399 Single Occup; $269 Triple and Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:$349

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino


MississippiCasinos of Biloxi

Day 1: Marksville, LARelax on the ride to Marksville, LA, and the beautiful Paragon Casino Resort.Try some of the gaming or relax by the pool or even take in a movie.

Day 2: Biloxi, MS Enjoy the scenery on the way to Biloxi, MS. Enjoy dinner and gaming offered in the luxury of the casino.

Day 3: Biloxi, MS Ride to Foley, AL, and shop at the Tanger Outlet Mall. Tour the lovely Bellingrath Gardens before returning to hotel.

Day 4: On the return trip, relax and reminisce with friends or plan the next trip.

per person dbl occup.4 days / 3 nights

CASINOS OF BILOXI, MS HIGHLIGHTS: • Paragon Casino, Marksville, LA

• Beau Rivage Resort & Casino or IP, Biloxi, MS

• Tanger Outlet Mall, Biloxi, MS

• Bellingrath Gardens, Mobile, AL

Bellingrath Gardens

IP, Biloxi Resort

Starting from:$299per person dbl occup.

4 days / 3 nights

Staying at IP, Biloxi Resort

First Class Tours Presents Jan 31 - Feb 3 / March 14 - 17 / March 28 - 31 / July 18 -21 / August 15 - 18 / October 3 - 6

Staying at Beau Rivage



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$449.00 Single Occup; $349.00 Triple and Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Graceland

Day 1: Gold Strike (1 buffet of choice)Relax and enjoy the scenery of the beautiful Piney Woods of East Texas.

Day 2: Gold Strike (1 buffet of choice + L)Explore Clarksdale, MS, home of the Delta Blues Museum and lunch atMorgan Freeman’s “Ground Zero” cafe.

Day 3: Gold Strike (1 buffet of choice)Tour Memphis, including Beale Street, the Lorraine Hotel whereDr. Martin Luther King was assassinated, the Civil Rights Museum andthe optional add-on attraction of Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion.

Day 4: Home Tour the Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock on the return trip to Houston.

Gold Strike


4 days / 3 nights

Casinos of TunicaCASINOS OF TUNICA, MISSISSIPPI HIGHLIGHTS: • Civil Rights Museum

• Delta Blues Museum

• Gold Strike Casino

• William J. Clinton Library

• Graceland Mansion - optional - not included in price

First Class Tours Presents January 17 - 20 / March 14 - 17/ July 5 - 8 / September 26 - 29, 2011

Clinton Presidential LibraryDelta Blues Museum




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$399 Single Occup; $279 Triple & Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Hard Rock CasinoTulsa, OK Starting from:

$319per person, dbl occup

3 days / 2 nights

Day 1: Tulsa, OK ($10 free play)Enjoy the scenery today as the coach heads to Tulsa, OK, and the Hard Rock Casino and Hotel.

Day 2: Tulsa, OK (B, L, $10 free play)Relax at the Hard Rock or take a Will Rogers History Tour. This tour begins at the Will Rogers Museum in Claremore, OK. The tour will take the visitor through the life of Will Rogers from his Cherokee roots in Indian Territory to his days as a Hollywood actor and famed politician. Also travel to Will Rogers’ birthplace in Oologah – Dog Iron Ranch – to view the historically restored home where he grew up and lived as a boy. Take time to enjoy the beautiful landscaping while overlooking scenic Oologah Lake. An interpretive actor and storyteller will be on hand to entertain visitors with tales of Will Rogers and the Cherokee Nation. Lunch is provided on this tour.

Day 3: Home (B)After breakfast begin the trip back to Houston. Relax and chat with friends about the excitement of the Hard Rock Casino and plan the next First Class Tour!

WILL ROGERS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Hard Rock Casino

• Will Rogers Museum

• Dog Iron Ranch (Will Rogers’ home)

• Oologah Lake

Hard Rock Casino, Tulsa

Hard Rock Casino, TulsaWill Rogers Memorial & Museum

First Class Tours Presents March 21 - 23/ August 22 - 24



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,099.00 Single Occup; $799.00 Triple and Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Tunica, MS (1 buffet)Enjoy a relaxing ride through East Texas and Arkansas on the way to Tunica, MSand the beautiful Gold Strike Casino.

Day 2: Salem, VA The trip to Atlantic City continues through Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia.

Day 3: Atlantic City, NJ (B)After passing through Baltimore and Philadelphia, arrive in Atlantic City.

Day 4: Atlantic City, NJFree day to relax, catch a show, stroll the Boardwalk, or try the casino action.

Day 5: Atlantic City, NJToday, tour historic Philadelphia, including Carpenter’s Hall, Independence Hall,Franklin Court, and the Liberty Bell. These historic sites are rich in American history.

Day 6: Salem, VATime to head home. Today stop in Baltimore at the Inner Harbor for lunch and some quick shopping.

Day 7: Tunica, MS (B + 1 buffet)On the way to Tunica, MS, stop to visit the O. Winston Link Museum in Roanoke, VA.

Day 8: HomeEnjoy a beautiful ride through the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas and visit theWilliam J. Clinton Library in Little Rock on the way home.

$899per person dbl occup.

8 days / 7 nights

ATLANTIC CITY TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • The Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ

• Independence Hall & The Liberty Bell

• Baltimore’s Inner Harbor


• William J. Clinton Library

and Philadelphia

First Class Tours Presents June 5 - 12, 2011

Atlantic City

Baltimore Inner Harbor

Atlantic City Boardwalk





281-590-8800


Little Rock Arkansas

Enjoy a day of Shopping


5 days /4 nights

Eureka SpringsArkansas

EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS HIGHLIGHTS: • Passion Play & Bible Exhibits

• Live Music Show

• Shopping in Hot Springs

• William J. Clinton Presidential Library

First Class Tours Presents

Day 1: Little Rock, ARRelax on the ride through the piney woods of East Texas on the route to Little Rock, AR.

Day 2: Eureka Springs, AR (B)Tour the Clinton Library before departing Little Rock for Eureka Springs. Enjoy one of Eureka Springs live music shows tonight.

Day 3: Eureka Springs, AR (B + D)Browse the shops in Eureka Springs before heading to the Passion Play & Bible Exhibits.

Day 4: Hot Springs, AR (B)Explore the unique shops in Hot Springs and discover the historic spas.

Day 5: Home (B)On the way back to Houston visit with friends, recall the highlights of this trip and plan the next adventure.

W. J. Clinton Presidential Library




281-590-8800


First Class Tours Presents June 5 - 10 / September 11 - 16, 2011

Starting from:

Day 1: Amarillo, TXToday travel as far as Amarillo, TX, where the Texan Steak Ranch experience awaits!

Day 2: Cripple Creek, CO (B)Enjoy the beautiful scenery of New Mexico and Colorado as the journey heads to Cripple Creek. Enjoy the modern casino experience in a historic mountain town.

Day 3: Cripple Creek, CO (B, L)Today we ride to Royal Gorge to experience Colorado’s own wonder of the world. At 1,053 feet high, the panoramic vistas are as awesome as the Grand Canyon. Spanning a quarter mile across is the world’s highest suspension bridge, a man-made marvel as inspiring as the Eiffel Tower. Brave a breathtaking ride in the world’s longest single-span Aerial Tram, hold on tight aboard the world’s steepest Incline Railway, and stroll across the Royal Gorge bridge.

Day 4: Cripple Creek, CO (B)Get ready for the sights around Colorado Springs including The Garden of the Gods and Pike’s Peak. In the Garden of the Gods, flora and fauna and towering red sandstone formations tell a unique geological story. Pike’s Peak was discovered by Lt. Zebulon Pike and immortalized in 1893 by Katharine Lee Bates when she penned the lyrics to “America the Beautiful” after visiting the summit. Finally take time to visit the United States Air Force Academy.

Day 5: Amarillo (B)This morning leave beautiful Colorado and begin the journey home stopping in Amarillo, TX.

Day 6: Home (B)Today’s destination is Houston so it is time to relax as we travel across our home state.

$589per person - dbl occup.

6 days / 5 nights

Streets of Cripple Creek

Garden of the Gods

Cripple CreekCRIPPLE CREEK COLORADO TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Royal Gorge

• Pike’s Peak

• Garden of the Gods

• Air Force Academy

• Double Eagle Casino Hotel

Colorado





281-590-8800


Durango Silverton

Mesa Verde National Park

Silverton Train


6 days / 5 nights

DURANGO/SILVERTON TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Durango/Silverton Narrow Gauge Train Ride

• Mesa Verde National Park

• Four Corners Monument

• Sky Ute Casino

First Class Tours Presents July 25 - 30, 2011

Colorado

Day 1: Amarillo, TX Today travel as far as Amarillo, TX, where the Big Texan Steak Ranch experience awaits!

Day 2: Ignacio, CO (B)The destination today is the Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio which sets a new standard for 24 hour gaming excitement and luxury hospitality in beautiful Southwest Colorado. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s pursuit to redefine a destination resort within the Four Corner’s region has struck gold! The new Sky Ute Casino Resort is located just 30 miles from Durango.

Day 3: Ignacio, CO (B)Today relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear for a spectacular journey on board the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic train has been in continuous operation for 128 years, carrying passengers behind vintage steam locomotives and rolling stock indigenous to the line.

Day 4: Ignacio, CO (B)Travel to the beautiful Mesa Verde National Park this morning. Mesa Verde, Spanish for green table, offers a spectacular look into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home for over 700 years. Today, the park protects over 4,000 known archeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. Then travel on to the remote location of the Four Corners Monument. The Navajo Nation welcomes visitors to one of the most unique landmarks - The Four Corners. This is the only place in the United States where four states intersect at one point: Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado.

Day 5: Amarillo, TX (B)Today head back to Amarillo, stopping in Albuquerque for lunch.

Day 6: Home (B)Houston is the destination today, so sit back, relax and enjoy chatting with friends about the sights and sounds of Colorado and plan the next trip.



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,299.00 Single Occup; $879.00 Triple and $859.00 Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


The Capitol

First Class Tours Presents May 17 - 24 , 2011

Starting from:

Day 1: Memphis, TN Enjoy the ride through the Piney Woods of East Texas and through southern Arkansas to Memphis, TN, where the tour will overnight.

Day 2: Salem, VA (B)The trip today is through beautiful Tennessee to Salem, VA.

Day 3: Tysons Corner, VA (B, D)Today, enjoy tours of the Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and the film Thomas Jefferson’s World. Monticello is located on a Virginia mountaintop and is a remarkable integration of classical architecture and modern innovation. In addition, tour the Gardens and Grounds and the Plantation Community of Monticello.

Day 4: Tysons Corner, VA (B, D)Experience a guided tour today of Arlington National Cemetery. No land in America is more sacred than this square mile. It is America’s shrine to valor and sacrifice. This is the final resting place for President John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Audie Murphy, prizefighter Joe Louis, and thousands of soldiers from every major U.S. war. Next see the Capitol Visitor’s Center which welcomes visitors to the seat of American government. Tour the United States Capitol, the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court building, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial this afternoon.

Day 5: Tysons Corner, VA (B, D)The New Newseum will be our morning destination. Relive the great new stories of the past, from the spoken stories of ancient times to today’s worldwide information explosion. Because the news changes daily, no two visits to the Newseum are ever alike. Later, enjoy your choice of the Smithsonian Institution’s museums on the National Mall. These museums include the National Air & Space Museum, Hirshhorn Museum, National Museum of Natural History, National Gallery of Art and others. Also, on the National Mall is the Washington Monument.

Day 6: Roanoke, VA (B)Before heading to Roanoke, VA today, enjoy a four-hour sampling of Colonial Williamsburg and see its exhibition buildings, colonial trade shops and colonial homes of the historic area. In addition, choose one of the following: the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, or Raleigh Tavern. Enjoy lunch on your own and shopping today in Merchant’s Square.

Day 7: Tuscaloosa, AL (B)Today, relax and ride to your overnight destination of Tuscaloosa, AL.

Day 8: Home (B)Arrive today, in Houston, TX.


8 days / 7 nights

WASHINGTON, DC TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Capitol Tour

• Monuments (Vietnam, WWII, Korean, Iwo Jima)

• Memorials (Jefferson, Lincoln, Washington)

• Williamsburg Historic District

Washington Monument

Washington,DC




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,049.00 Single Occup; $729.00 Triple and Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800



7 days / 6 nights

FLORIDA TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Guided tour of Amelia Island

• Fernandina Beach historical district

• Guided tour of St. Augustine, FL

• Cruise on the St. John River

• Old Capitol Building, Tallahassee

First Class Tours Presents April 10 - 16, 2011

Amelia IslandSt. Augustine & Jacksonville, Florida

Day 1: Mobile, ALDepart for sunny Florida. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of southern Louisiana and Mississippi before stopping for the night in Mobile, AL.

Day 2: Jacksonville, FL (B)Set off today for the sunshine of Jacksonville, FL.

Day 3: Jacksonville, FL (B)First stop today will be Kingsley Plantation. Explore life on a nineteenth-century Florida plantation. Discover the stories of the life and times of Zephaniah Kingsley, his African wife Anna, and the hundreds of men, women, and children who were enslaved at the plantation. Then head to Amelia Island, southernmost of the Atlantic Barrier islands that stretch from North Carolina to Florida. After a guided tour of this beautiful Island, visit the historical district “Fernandina Beach” and have time to stroll along this stunning beach.

Day 4: Jacksonville, FL (B)Enjoy a guided tour of St. Augustine, America’s first city. Stop and visit the famous “Fountain of Youth.” Then browse the shops on historic St. George Street.

Day 5: Jacksonville, FL (B, L)Start the day with a tour of beautiful Jacksonville. Afterwards, experience a narrated cruise on the St. John’s River.

Day 6: Mobile, AL (B)Begin the journey back to Houston with a stop in Tallahassee to tour the Old Capitol Building. The destination for tonight is Mobile, AL.

Day 7: Home (B)Depart for home. Now is the perfect time to chat with friends about all the great sights and plan the next trip!

Jacksonville, Florida

St. Augustine, Fountain




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Destin, FLTravel across Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi to the Panhandle of Florida and sunny Destin, FL.

Day 2: Destin, FL (B)Enjoy the sun, sand and simple pleasures of Destin today and a trip to Harbor Walk Village for souvenir shopping.

Day 3: Destin, FL (B, D)Today’s outing is to Seaside, the heart of Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast along the scenic Highway 30A corridor. Beautiful, unique residences and guest houses blend seamlessly with pristine beaches overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Seaside is designed to reflect a simpler time, when meals were shared, stories entertained and walking was how people got around. This is where the “Truman Show,” starring Jim Carrey was filmed.

Day 4: Home (B)Head back to Houston today after a relaxing rest at Florida’s spectacular Destin beach. Plan the next First Class trip!


4 days / 3 nights

DestinDESTIN, FLORIDA TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Beautiful sandy beach

• Harbor Walk Village

• Seaside, FL where the “Truman Show” was filmed

First Class Tours Presents August 15 - 18, 2011

Jetty at Destin, Florida

Florida

The Truman Show

Destin City at night





281-590-8800


FloridaKEY WEST, FLORIDA TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Casino Hotel in Biloxi • Visit Key West

• National Museum of Naval Aviation • Florida Museum of Natural History

• Tour of San Augustine

Day 1: Biloxi, MS Relax on a ride to Biloxi, MS, and enjoy the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Day 2: Jacksonville, FL (B)Visit the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, FL. Tour St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States and home to many vibrant historical attractions, especially the fabled Fountain of Youth.

Day 3: Miami, FL (B)Tour San Augustine, the oldest city in the United States and home to many vibrant historical attractions, especially the fabled Fountain of Youth before journeying to Cape Canaveral for a tour of the Kennedy Space Center, the gateway to space exploration for the last 50 years.

Day 4: Miami, FL (B)Enjoy a guided tour of Miami and then head for exciting and glamorous Miami Beach and the famous South Beach area! Take in the beauty of the aqua blue waters while strolling on the beach, or browse the unique galleries, specialty shops and designer boutiques.

Day 5: Miami, FL (B)Depart for Key West – the Southernmost City in the Continental U. S. A. Discover this enchanting place. Enjoy some free time to experience the sights and sounds of Key West.

Day 6: Miami, FL (B)Today’s exciting plans include a cruise on Biscayne Bay featuring “Millionaire’s Row” – the homes of the rich and famous. Admire the homes of celebrities as the boat passes Fisher Island and Star Island. Later, go to Bayside Marketplace for great shopping and eating.

Day 7: Crestview, FL (B)Visit the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville before heading to Crestview, FL.

Day 8: Home (B)Visit the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville before heading to Mobile on this first leg of the journey home. Relax and chat with friends about the excitement of this Florida vacation and plan where the next adventure will go.


8 days / 7 nights

Key WestFirst Class Tours Presents

St. Augustine Egret

Southernmost Point, Key West




281-590-8800




7 days / 6 nights

ORLANDO, FLORIDA TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Disney Downtown

• Disney World

• Universal Studios

Orlando

Day 1: Overnight Ride to Orlando Set off for exciting Orlando, Florida

Day 2: Orlando, FL.Arrive in Orlando after lunch, and start the fun with a visit to Disney Downtown.

Day 3: Orlando, FL. (B)Experience the excitement of Disney World. Disney World Orlando offers enchanting entertainment for the entire family in its theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Blizzard Beach, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Typhoon Lagoon.

Day 4: Orlando, FL. (B)Visit Universal Studios with a 2-day pass. Be the star at Universal Studios, the number one movie and TV based theme park in the world. Be among the first to visit the all new Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Day 5: Orlando, FL. (B)Return to Universal Studios with the 2-day pass for more rides and thrilling attractions.

Day 6: Coach night on return (B)Take time to grab those last minute souvenirs before heading back to Houston.

Day 7: HomeHead back to Houston today, chat about your Disney adventure and plan your next First Class tour!

Beautiful Orlando Palm Trees

Orlando Skyline

Florida





281-590-8800


SAVANNAH, GEORGIA HIGHLIGHTS: • Guided Tour of Savannah • Jekyll Island & St. Simons Island

• Penn Center • Beaufort, SC • Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens


7 days / 6 nights

Day 1: Meridian, MSSet off for beautiful Savannah, the Belle of Georgia.

Day 2: Savannah, GA (B)Continue the journey through Alabama to Savannah.

Day 3: Savannah, GA (B)Today enjoy a guided tour of beautiful and historic Savannah. See architectural marvels, beautiful oak-lined streets and lovely “town squares.” Enjoy free time on historic River Street, featuring unique 18th century streets and 19th century cotton warehouses that have been converted into fine restaurants, unusual shops and antique galleries.

Day 4: Savannah, GA (B)Depart for fascinating and history-rich Jekyll Island. See how the nation’s wealthiest citizens like J. P. Morgan and William Rockefeller lived and played. Later take a guided tour of St. Simons Island and enjoy a stroll among moss-draped oaks or shop at the interesting boutiques and specialty shops in the historic area.

Day 5: Savannah, GA (B)Spend the day in magnificent Beaufort, SC – “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands.” Beaufort’s history dates as far back as the 1500’s. Its striking mansions and scenery served as the backdrop for several motion pictures including The Big Chill and Forest Gump. Also tour Penn Center, the site of one of the country’s first schools for freed slaves, on St. Helena Island.

Day 6: Mobile, AL (B)Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before leaving for the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville, FL, on the way to Mobile, AL.

Day 7: Home (B)Depart for home. Now is the perfect time to chat with friends about all the fun and plan the next trip!

Starting from:


SavannahGeorgia

Jekyll Island

Downtown Savannah, Georgia



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,359.00 Single Occup; $979.00 Triple and $959.00 Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


IllinoisStarting from:

Day 1: Little Rock, AR (B)Today depart Houston with the final destination Chicago, known as the windy city.

Day 2: Springfield, IL (B)Today’s destination is Springfield, IL. This is the city to which Abraham Lincoln gave his heart, saying, “To this place, and the kindness of these people, I owe everything.”

Day 3: Chicago, IL (B)Today visit the Lincoln home where he raised his children, the Old State Capitol where he delivered his “House Divided” speech, and the Lincoln tomb where President Lincoln, his wife and three of their sons are buried. Then relax on the way to Chicago.

Day 4: Chicago, IL (B + D)Take a guided tour of Chicago. Some of the sights on today’s schedule are the South Shore Cultural Center and lunch at Manny’s. Then experience one of Chicago’s top attractions – the historic and fun-filled Navy Pier. Relax on a dinner cruise and take in the spectacular skyline view from Lake Michigan.

Day 5: Chicago, IL (B)Depart for the world famous Willis Tower formerly the Sears Tower. The newly renovated Observation Deck offers breathtaking views and new interactive displays. Next, Chicago’s famous “Magnificent Mile” and the beautiful architecture, do some sight-seeing, or shop the Water Tower Place Mall. Don’t miss the Old Chicago Water Tower – one of the few structures to survive the Great Fire in 1871. Finally, visit the Shedd Aquarium where you can explore the oceans of the world.

Day 6: Arcola, IL (B)Relax and enjoy the scenery of the farmlands on the ride to Arcola, IL, and the beautiful Amish Country. Visit the quaint shops surrounded the Amish people and an Amish history museum.

Day 7: Little Rock, AR (B)Today’s destination is Little Rock, AR. In Little Rock, enjoy a tour of the capital city of “The Natural State.”

Day 8: Home (B)Depart for home. Relax and chat with friends about all the sights and sounds of Chicago and plan the next trip.

$1,049per person dbl occup.

8 days /7 nights

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Guided tours of Chicago • Willis Tower & Shedd Aquarium

• Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan • Magnificent Mile & Navy Pier

• Amish Country • Tour of Little Rock, AR • Abraham Lincoln’s home & Old State Capitol


Skyline from Lake Michigan

Navy Pier, Chicago

Chicago




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$249.00 Single Occup; $189.00 Triple and Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Plantation Home


Starting from:$199

per person dbl occup. 3 days /2 nights

NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA HIGHLIGHTS: • Paragon Casino Resort, Marksville, LA

• Steel Magnolias House

• Cane River Plantations

Louisianna

Day 1: Marksville, LA Relax and ride to Marksville, LA, and the magnificent Paragon Resort and Casino. On your own, relax and enjoy playing the slots or tables, take in a movie, or have a massage at the spa.

Day 2: Marksville, LADepart for Natchitoches and a walking tour of the downtown area and browse the unique shops. Make time to see the homes in town, especially the Steel Magnolias’ House. After lunch, stroll through the Plantation Homes located along the Cane River. Natchitoches, founded by St. Denis in 1714, is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. It was once a bustling river-port which gave rise to vast cotton kingdoms. Affluent farmers not only owned large plantations, but kept elegant houses in town. When the Red River changed its course, it abandoned Natchitoches, but this isolation helped preserve its historic buildings and deeply-ingrained traditions of the residents along the Cane River.

Day 3: Home Relax on the trip home to Houston and chat with friends about the next adventure.

Spreading Tree along the Cane River

NatchitochesFirst Class Tours Presents




281-590-8800


NEW ORLEANS & WWII MUSEUM HIGHLIGHTS: • Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour

• World War II Museum

• Audubon Aquarium

• New Orleans’ French Quarter & Garden District

• Harrah’s Casino

• Paragon Casino Resort


4 days / 3 nights

Day 1: Marksville, LA Board our spacious, video-equipped motorcoach for a relaxing ride to Marksville, LA, and the beautiful Paragon Casino Resort. Enjoy the evening and next morning at Paragon on your own with exciting gaming action, a relaxing visit to the Spa La Vie, a movie at the Paragon Cinema, or relax with the serene backdrop of the Paragon Atrium while sipping your favorite beverage.

Day 2: New Orleans, LAEnjoy free time this morning before the short drive to New Orleans. Today, enjoy the historic French Quarter, the oldest and most famous New Orleans neighborhood. “The Quarter” contains numerous historic buildings, as well as the famous “Bourbon Street.” This evening enjoy the gaming action at Harrah’s casino.

Day 3: New Orleans, LA (B)Take the trolley to the Audubon Aquarium. At the aquarium penguins, stingrays, sharks and other deep-sea creatures await. In the afternoon, board the coach for the Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour. On the swamp tour, explore Louisiana’s back country. Trained navigators escort us into the murky waters of Louisiana swamps where we will come face to face with the beauty and beasts of nature.

Day 4: Home (B)This morning visit the World War II Museum or take the trolley to the Garden District. The WWII Museum was founded by noted author and historian, Stephen E. Ambrose. The Garden District of New Orleans was settled in the 1850’s. It contains elegant mansions exemplifying many architectural styles. Depart the hotel at 11 am. Cross the 18.2 mile bridge known as the “Atchafalaya Swamp Freeway”. This 18 mile long bridge was also known as the “bridge that could not be built” due to the dense marsh and swamplands.

New OrleansFirst Class Tours Presents August 28 - 31, 2011

Starting from:Louisianna

French Market Place

St. Louis Cathedral





281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Blytheville, ARDepart Houston this morning for Holland – Michigan that is! Two days will be spent in Holland at the world famous Tulip Festival.

Day 2: Holland, MI (B)As time allows, witness the Volksparade, the street scrubbing, the Children’s Costume Parade, and the Dutch Folk street dances, performed by more than 800 high school girls wearing copies of authentic costumes of the various provinces of the Netherlands. Visit the De Klomp Wooden Shoe Factory and Veldheer’s Tulip Gardens.

Day 3: Holland, MI (B)Today visit Windmill Island with its 200-year-old Dutch windmill, “DeZwann.” Then return to the festival and all the things not seen yesterday. Downtown is the Dutch Marktplaats, featuring genuine Dutch products and foods as well as souvenirs, Dutch music, dance performances and more.

Day 4: Indianapolis, IN (B)Depart Holland this morning and head to South Bend, IN, to do a tour of the campus of Notre Dame University. Notre Dame was founded in 1842 by a Catholic priest from France. It has grown to be one of the great universities in the United States, achieving notoriety not only in athletics but in academics as well. Then it is on to Indianapolis and the Speedway Museum for a tour. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the host of the Indy 500 each year.

Day 5: Little Rock, AR (B)Depart Indianapolis and head to Little Rock, AR, for a tour of the Old Capitol building and the city.

Day 6: Home (B)Relax, enjoy the ride through Arkansas and East Texas, chat with friends about the beauty of the Tulip Festival and plan the next adventure.


6 days / 5 nights

Tulip FestivalTULIP FESTIVAL, HOLLAND MI HIGHLIGHTS:

• World Famous Holland Tulip Festival

• Windmill Island

• Notre Dame Campus

• Indianapolis Speedway

Holland, Michigan

University of Notre Dame

Indianapolis Motorspeedway

First Class Tours Presents May 7 - 12, 2011




281-590-8800


Starting from:MINNEAPOLIS AND SAINT PAUL HIGHLIGHTS: • Mall of America

• Cowtown Museum

• Wisconsin Dells

• Split Rock Lighthouse • Mystic Lake Casino


7 days /6 nights

Day 1: Wichita, KSRelax and enjoy the scenery in route to Wichita, KS.

Day 2: Minneapolis/St. Paul (B)Tour the Museum of World Treasures in Old Town, Wichita, KS with its interactive learning through living history before heading to Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Day 3: Minneapolis/St. Paul (B)Spend the day at the Mall of America. As one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, Mall of America features something for everyone: 520 stores, 50 restaurants, and attractions galore, including a theme park (Nickelodeon Universe) and Underwater Adventures Aquarium.

Day 4: Minneapolis/St. Paul (B)Begin with a relaxing ride to the Wisconsin Dells, have lunch, and take a duck ride on the river.

Day 5: Minneapolis/St. Paul (B)Tour the city, including the Science Museum of Minnesota, historic Fort Snelling, and Split Rock Lighthouse. Then enjoy gaming at the beautiful Mystic Lake Casino.

Day 6: Wichita, KS (B)Begin the trip home with a stop in Wichita, Kansas.

Day 7: Home (B)Start with breakfast before departing for Houston. Then relax and chatwith friends and start planning the next trip.

MinneapolisFirst Class Tours Presents October 23 - 29, 2011

& St. Paul

Minneapolis Skyline at night

Mall of America





281-590-8800


Day 1: Little Rock, AR.Today, travel through the piney woods of East Texas. We will visit the Crossroads of the Piney Woods – Lufkin, TX. Reach Texarkana and cross into The Natural State of Arkansas. Tonight, overnight in “La Petite Roche” or Little Rock, AR, named after a rock along the graceful bluffs of the Arkansas River.

Day 2: Eureka Springs, AR. (B + D)An exciting day begins traveling to Eureka Springs for morning shopping. Later, explore the Exhibits at the Great Passion Play which include the Tabernacle, Sacred Arts Exhibit, and world renowned Bible exhibit, Christ of the Ozarks, the Berlin wall, and the Little Church in the Grove. Enjoy dinner at the Top of the Mountain Dinner Theater before attending the Great Passion Play, America’s #1 attended outdoor drama. Be inspired as the story of the Man who changed the world forever unfolds before your eyes.

Day 3: Branson, MO. (B + D)This morning, enjoy the short drive to Branson and the Titanic Museum. Relive the last hours of the Titanic’s fateful voyage and see the galleries where over 400 personal and private artifacts are on display. Later, visit the Stone Hill Winery and taste the best Missouri wine. This evening attend a live Branson show.

Day 4: Branson, MO. (B + D)Today relax and enjoy three of Branson’s finest shows. There will be a morning, afternoon, and evening show.

Day 5: Hot Springs, AR. (B)Travel through the Ouachita Mountains to “America’s First Resort” - Hot Springs, AR. Explore some of the unique shops and discover the historic spa city.

Day 6: Home (B)Relax on the way home today. Stop at Marshall Pottery, specializing in hand turned pottery straight from the potter’s wheel. Skilled artisans have turned the clay of East Texas for over one hundred years making beautiful, functional stoneware pottery. In the hand-turned pottery studio, see our Master Potters transform a lump of clay into a work of art.

BRANSON / EUREKA SPRINGS HIGHLIGHTS: • 4 Branson Shows • Shop Eureka Springs

• Great Passion Play & Exhibits • Brason & Hot Springs

• Titanic Museum • Stone Hill Winery


Little Rock Arkansas

Stone Hill Winery


6 days /5 nights

MO & Eureka Springs Arkansas

Branson First Class Tours Presents




281-590-8800


Branson Express

Branson Landing night boats

Branson Landing Fountains


4 days /3 nights

BRANSON EXPRESS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • 4 Branson Music Shows

• Guided Tour of Branson area• 6 meals

First Class Tours Presents April 25 - 28/ June 27 - 30 2011

Day 1: Branson, MO.Get ready to enjoy some of the best entertainment in the country! Today we will travel through the piney woods of East Texas and cross into The Natural State – Arkansas. Later, arrive in the live music capital of the world, Branson, MO.

Day 2: Branson, MO. (B, L, D)Enjoy a guided tour of Branson, Missouri, known as the “Live Music Show Capital of the World.” Lunch today will be aboard the Showboat “Branson Belle” along with a live show. Tonight after an included dinner, enjoy the Clay Cooper Show.

Day 3: Branson, MO. (B + D)This morning attend the Doug Gabriel Show. This afternoon take time to shop at one of the craft malls or explore historic downtown Branson. This evening after an included dinner, enjoy the Shoji Tabuchi Show, one of Branson’s most popular shows.

Day 4: Home (B)Relax aboard the motorcoach as we make our way home.

Branson Music Show




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person.$999.00 Single Occup; $739.00 Triple and Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Branson

Branson Landing Night Boats

Just like old times!

Day 1: Little Rock, AR.Get ready to enjoy some of the best entertainment in the country! Today we will travel through the piney woods of East Texas and cross into The Natural State – Arkansas. Tonight we will overnight in “La Petite Roche” or Little Rock, Arkansas, which was named after a particular rock along the graceful bluffs of the Arkansas River.

Day 2: Branson, MO (B, D)Escape today to Branson, Missouri, known as the “Live Music Show Capital of the World.” This evening see one of Branson’s most popular shows.

Day 3: Branson, MO (B, D)This morning see the second live music show featuring everything from Country to Pop and from Jazz to Classical. This afternoon take time to shop at one of the craft malls or explore historic downtown Branson. This evening enjoy another live show.

Day 4: Branson, MO (B, D)Today, at the Titanic Museum, relive the last hours of the Titanic’s fateful voyage and view the galleries where over 400 personal and private artifacts are on display. Later, visit the Veteran’s Memorial Museum. The exhibits in this amazing memorial cover WWI to other more recent conflicts. Later, enjoy another live show, dinner and the final live music show.

Day 5: Home (B)Relax aboard the motorcoach as we make our way home today. On the way, stop at Marshall Pottery, which specializes in hand turned pottery straight from the potter’s wheel.

BRANSON CHRISTMAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • 5 Branson Music Shows • Veterans Memorial Museum

• Titanic Museum • Stone Hill Winery



5 days /4 nights

MO - Christmas Tour

First Class Tours Presents November 15 - 19, 2011




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: New Orleans, LASit back and relax on the way to New Orleans. In New Orleans, experience a ride on the St. Charles Trolley, explore the French Quarter and Jackson Square, and do some shopping.

Day 2: Natchez, MS (B)Begin the route up the River Road to Natchez, stopping at Destrehan Plantation, the oldest plantation in the state and Oakley Plantation, where John James Audubon lived while he was painting the birds of south Louisiana. Later, visit the town of Woodville which has been the backdrop in many Hollywood films.

Day 3: Natchez, MS (B)Explore the city of Natchez, touring some of the mansions, and see Natchez-Under-The-Hill, the notorious area that grew up along the Mississippi River in the days of the “Ken tucks.”

Day 4: Tunica, MS (1 buffet of choice)Leave beautiful Natchez behind and begin the drive up the historic Natchez Trace to Jackson, MS. This 500 mile modern highway follows the path the “Ken Tucks” walked on their way home from New Orleans. It earned the nickname “The Devil’s Backbone.” Stop along the route to see some of the Indian history and the history of the early settlers, including Emerald Mound, Mt. Locust, the ruins of Windsor Plantation, and the Mississippi Crafts Center at Ridgeland.

Day 5: Nashville, TN The destination today is the country music capital, Nashville, TN. Today’s agenda includes tours of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Belle Meade Plantation, and The Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson.

Day 6: Little Rock, AR (B)Visit Little Rock and tour the Old State House Museum.

Day 7: Home (B)Stop in Marshall, TX, to see the famous Marshall Pottery and do some last minute shopping.


7 days / 6 nights

The River Road RIVER ROAD & NATCHEZ TRACE HIGHLIGHTS:

• New Orleans French Quarter

• Destrehan Plantation

• Natchez, MS

• Country Music Hall of Fame

• The Hermitage


Belle Meade Plantation

& The Natchez Trace

The Hermitage





281-590-8800



ExpressReno, Nevada


8 days / 7 nights

RENO EXPRESS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Lake Tahoe Cruise • OK Corral, Tombstone

• Virginia City Day 1: Coach NightSet off for the bright lights of Reno. Today’s travel is to Primm, NV with an overnighton the motorcoach.

Day 2: Primm, NV Located near the California and Nevada state line, Primm Valley was the home to “Whiskey Pete.” Legend has it that Pete wanted to be buried standing up with a bottle of bootleg in his hands so he could watch over the area. Enjoy the gaming and western folk-lore surrounding this casino community.

Day 3: Lake Tahoe, NV Depart for beautiful Lake Tahoe this morning. As the tour circles the lake, watch the natural beauty of this lake that makes it one of the highlights of any visit to this area. At Emerald Bay, designated a National Natural Landmark in 1969, look for Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe, with its “Tea House” and Vikingsholm, one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the western hemisphere.

Day 4: Reno, NVCruise on Lake Tahoe today. This is a scenic cruise and highlights the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder. Later, head to the “Biggest Little City in the World.” Reno is more than slot machines and blackjack tables. It has dramatic alpine peaks, lush pine forests, shady red rock canyons and shimmering desert flats. Relax, enjoy exploring the city or try the gaming.

Day 5: Reno, NVTour the historic 19th century mining town of Virginia City. At the peak of its glory, Virginia City was the most important settlement between Denver and San Francisco. The spirits of the Comstock characters still inhabit the area and 150 years later romance still thrives in this wondrous place in the shadow of Sun Mountain.

Day 6: Laughlin, NVToday, relax on the way to the tip of Nevada along the Colorado River. Laughlin, in just a few short years, has been transformed into a fast growing tourist destination and gambling resort. Stroll the Colorado River front and enjoy the gaming action of Laughlin area casinos.

Day 7: Coach Night Leave the bright lights of Las Vegas behind and head to Houston with an overnight on the coach.

Day 8: Home Relax on this last leg of the journey home, chat with friends about the sights and sounds of Reno and Las Vegas, and plan the next First Class trip!

Lake Tahoe

Reno, Best Little City in the World



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,899.00 Single Occup; $1,249.00 Triple and $1,199 Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


First Class Tours Presents September 11 - 20, 2011

Day 1: Jackson, MSRelax and enjoy the ride to Paragon Casino Resort, known as the Pearl of Louisiana because it offers so much more than gaming. On your own, take in a movie, sun by the pool or watch the alligators in the atrium after trying the slots and table games.

Day 2: Bristol, TNTour the Vicksburg Civil War Battlefield which commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg. Over 1,340 monuments, a restored Union gunboat, and National Cemetery mark the 16-mile tour road.

Day 3: Paramus, NJ (B)Relax as you ride through the beautiful countryside of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey to Paramus.

Day 4: Paramus, NJ (B) Tour the Big Apple with a drive to Liberty State Park and cruise to Ellis Island. Later, cruise to the Statue of Liberty.

Day 5: Paramus, NJ (B)Guided tour of Upper Manhattan and Brooklyn including Ground Zero, the Apollo Theater, Lincoln Center, the Dakota Apartments (where John Lennon was shot), the Empire State Building and Central Park. Tonight, see a Broadway show.

Day 6: Paramus, NJ (B)Enjoy a scenic drive to West Point, NY, to tour West Point Academy. West Point’s role American history dates from the Revolutionary War and is the oldest continuously occupied military post in the country. Next, head into the Catskill Mountains where scenic views and history abound.

Day 7: Arlington, VA (B)Today’s destination is Washington, DC and a driving tour of the nation’s Capitol.

Day 8: Asheville, NC (B)The majestic Biltmore Estate awaits you today! This 250-room home, built in 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt, is still family-owned. Take a driving tour of the estate, shop at one of the gift shops, and taste some of the estate’s wines.

Day 9: Mobile, AL (B)Enjoy the scenery today as you travel to Mobile, AL.

Day 10: Home (B)Now is the perfect time to sit back, relax, and chat with friends about all the great sights and where your next trip will be.

Statue of Liberty

Capitol Building



NEW YORK CITY TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Guided tour of New York City • Biltmore Estate

• Cruise to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island • Vicksburg Battlefield • West Point Military Academy

New York





281-590-8800


Starting from:$969


& Toronto - (Passport Required)

Toronto, Canada

Niagara Falls

NIAGARA FALLS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Guided Tour of Niagara Falls area • Guided Tour of Toronto • Maid of the Mist boat ride • Casa Loma

• President Taft National Historic Site


Niagara Falls

Day 1: Memphis, TNDepart Houston for awe-inspiring Niagara Falls! Relax as the coach travels through beautiful East Texas and southern Arkansas to Memphis.

Day 2: Cincinnati, OH (B)Depart Memphis and head to Cincinnati. Stop on the way at the President Taft Historical Site.

Day 3: Niagara Falls, ON (B)Today’s journey ends in Niagara Falls. Take time to relax and enjoy the views of the falls or try the gaming at exciting Fallsview Casino across the street from the hotel.

Day 4: Niagara Falls, ON (B)Start the day with a guided tour of Niagara Falls. Then ride on the Maid of the Mist, Niagara’s most popular and breath-taking attraction. Sail near the base of Horseshoe Falls and enjoy a truly awe-inspiring view of the mighty Niagara Falls. The evening is free for a visit to the casino or exploring.

Day 5: Niagara Falls, ON (B)Depart Niagara Falls for a guided tour of the beautiful cosmopolitan city of Toronto, Canada. Visit Toronto’s majestic castle estate – Casa Loma and the CN Tower – the world’s tallest building and freestanding structure.

Day 6: Charleston, WV (B)Begin the journey back to Houston today. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as the coach travels through Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia to Charleston.

Day 7: Memphis, TN (B)Follow the beautiful Blue Grass Parkway through Kentucky into northern Tennessee. Today’s destination is Memphis.

Day 8: Home (B)Now chat with friends about the great sights and plan the next First Class Tour as the coach travels through Arkansas and East Texas back to Houston.




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Jackson, MSCross East Texas and our neighboring state of Louisiana to beautiful Vicksburg, MS. Tour the National Military Park in Vicksburg before heading to Jackson, MS, for the night.

Day 2: Macon, GA (B)Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery as the coach travels across Mississippi and Alabama, passing through Alabama’s lovely capital city of Montgomery and through the historic part of Columbus, a picturesque southern town with gaslights along wide, brick-lined streets.

Day 3: Myrtle Beach, SC (B)Begin today with a drive to Savannah, GA, the town founded by James Oglethorpe in 1733. There will be time to shop and stroll along Factors Walk, which now it consists of tourists’ shops, attractions, a museum, and restaurants. But back in 1817, it was the original site for the Cotton Exchange.

Day 4: Myrtle Beach, SC (B)Begin with a visit to Brookgreen Gardens and its new Low Country Center that depicts the history of the Low Country from its Native American beginnings to its slave era and beyond. Trace the history of the Gullah people from Africa to South Carolina. Travel to Hopsewee Plantation for a tour, and then shop along the coast for arts and crafts including quilts, sweet grass baskets, dolls and wood carvings.

Day 5: Myrtle Beach, SC (B)This last day in Myrtle Beach will be free to lounge on the beach or explore the unique shopping.

Day 6: Birmingham, AL (B)Bid farewell to Myrtle Beach today and head to Birmingham, AL, another city steeped in southern history, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. There will be a stop in Atlanta, GA, at the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum featuring a replica of the Oval Office and the Nobel Peace Prize.

Day 7: Marksville, LAFrom Birmingham, cross Mississippi and enter Louisiana. Relax tonight at the beautiful Paragon Casino Resort. On your own, try the gaming or take in a movie.

Day 8: HomeFilled with memories of many happy times and exciting events, head back to Houston and plan the next First Class Tour!


8 days / 7 nights

MYRTLE BEACH TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Tour of Savannah • Tour of Charleston, SC • Jimmy Carter Library

• Brookgreen Gardens • Vicksburg National Military Park

First Class Tours Presents September 23 - 30, 2011

South Carolina

National Military Park, Vicksburg

Jimmy Carter Library & Museum

Myrtle Beach






281-590-8800


NashvilleNASHVILLE/MEMPHIS, TENNESSE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Grand Ole Opry • Country Music Hall of Fame

• The Hermitage

• Elvis Presley’s Graceland • Casey Jones Village • Paragon Casino Resort

Day 1: Marksville, LARelax on the ride to Marksville, LA, and the beautiful Paragon Casino Resort. Own your own, enjoy the gaming, relax by the pool or even take in a movie.

Day 2: Jackson, TNToday’s destination is Casey Jones Village. Relax to some foot-stompin’ bluegrass music with dinner tonight.

Day 3: Nashville, TN (B + L)Enjoy lunch and a show aboard the General Jackson Showboat while cruising along the Cumberland River. Tonight, sit back and be entertained by a live performance of the historic Grand Ole Opry in the world-famous Ryman Auditorium.

Day 4: Nashville, TN (B)Tour the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame and President Andrew Jackson’s home, The Hermitage. To see a picture of this great American president take a look at a $20 bill!

Day 5: Tunica, MS (1 buffet of choice included)Depart Nashville and head to Memphis in time to have lunch on Beale Street (home to Blues music in Memphis) and then tour Elvis Presley’s Graceland. Graceland is home to thousands of memorabilia items from the King of Rock-n-Roll’s life and music career.

Day 6: HomeToday’s destination is Houston. Relax and enjoy reflecting on all the fun you had in Nashville and Memphis.

Ryman Auditorium

Nashville Skyline


6 days / 5 nights

Tennesse

First Class Tours Presents October 12 - 17, 2011




281-590-8800 First Class ToursI N C O R P O R A T E D

Starting from:

Day 1: Fort Stockton, TXBegin the journey to the Grand Canyon with a relaxing ride to Fort Stockton, TX.

Day 2: Tucson, AZ (B) The trip continues to Tombstone, AZ, to tour the world’s most famous gunfight site, the OK Corral. Walk where Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, Virgil and Morgan Earp fought the Clantons and McLaurys on October 26, 1881.

Day 3: Flagstaff, AZ (B)Today, tour the Montezuma Castle National Monument and the town of Sedona, AZ. Often called “Red Rock Country,” This picturesque city is surrounded by red-rock monoliths named Coffeepot, Cathedral and Thunder Mountain. Sedona is a four season’s playground for everyone – whether history and archaeology, arts and culture, power shopping, outdoor sports, or the spiritual and metaphysical, imagine doing all this in a backdrop of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

Day 4: Page, AZ (B)Tour the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. A powerful and inspiring landscape, the Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size; 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and a mile deep.

Day 5: Page, AZ (B)Today’s activities include a day trip to Glen Canyon Dam and Monument Valley where a Navajo guide will tell the history of the region. Encompassing over 1.2 million acres, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stretches for hundreds of miles encompassing scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a vast panorama of human history. Monument Valley boasts sandstone masterpieces that tower at heights of 400 to 1,000 feet framed by scenic clouds casting shadows that graciously roam the desert floor.

Day 6: Page, AZ (B)A tour of Bryce Canyon is planned for today. Bryce Canyon is unique – nowhere is there anything similar. It has been described as a cave without a ceiling, a forest of stone, but even “canyon” is misleading since Bryce is carved by freeze-thaw cycles, not a river.

Day 7: Page, AZ (B)Zion National Park is the destination today. Here massive canyon walls ascend toward a brilliant blue sky. To experience Zion, walk among the towering cliffs and small narrow canyons. These unique sandstone cliffs range in color from cream, to pink, to red and could be described as sand castles crowning desert canyons.

Day 8: Albuquerque, NM (B)At Holbrook, AZ, visit the Petrified Forest National Park. With one of the world’s largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood, multi-hued badlands of the Painted Desert, historic structures, archeological sites, native grassland, and displays of over 200-million-year-old fossils, this is a surprising land of scenic wonders and fascinating science.

Day 9: Amarillo, TX (B)Tour Old Town Albuquerque, shop the market for some of the Native American crafts and then head to Amarillo.

Day 10: Home (B)On the way to Houston watch for camels, antelope, and deer or buffalo. Relax, chat with friends about the beautiful National Parks and plan the next First Class tour.

$1,079per person, dbl occup.

10 days / 9 nights

Grand Canyon GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK HIGHLIGHTS:

• Grand Canyon • Bryce Canyon • Zion National Park

• OK Corral • Montezuma Castle National Monument


Zion, Bryce

Grand Canyon






281-590-8800


Big Bend

Row of porches at Fort Davis

McDonald Observatory



4 days / 3 nights

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK HIGHLIGHTS: • Annie Riggs Memorial Museum

• Fort Stockton

• Big Bend

• McDonald Observatory

National Park

Day 1: Fort Stockton, TXRide through West Texas to Fort Stockton for a tour of the Annie Riggs Memorial Museum and historic Fort Stockton.

Day 2: Fort Davis (B)Journey to the Chisos Mountains and Big Bend National Park, hike one of the trails near the Chisos Lodge, and raft on the river.

Day 3: Fort Davis (B)Explore the Davis Mountains, the Fort Davis National Historic Site and shop in some of the unique and diversified specialty shops before heading to the McDonald Observatory for some late night star gazing after dinner.

Day 4: Home (B)Return to Houston with a stop at the Caverns of Sonora.

Big Bend National Park




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Amarillo, Texas Watch for the variety of wildlife: antelope, camels, and buffalo as the ride crosses Texas to Amarillo. Enjoy dinner at the famous Big Texan Steakhouse.

Day 2: Amarillo, Texas (B)Get ready for the scenic drive to Palo Duro Canyon and its awe-inspiring views. Stop first at the Panhandle Plains Museum, one of the best Indian/Western museums in the nation. At the Canyon, explore the visitor’s center where exhibits explain the area’s geology, history, plant and animal life and ride the Sad Monkey Train to get closer to some of the colorful rock formations. Dinner will be a catered meal in the park followed by a performance of Texas: A Musical Romance of Panhandle History.

Day 3: Home (B)Relax on the ride back to Houston while visiting with friends and planning the next First Class Trip!


3 days / 2 nights

Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon

Light House Formation

PALO DURO CANYON TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Texas: A Musical Romance of Panhandle History

• Panhandle Plains Museum

• Palo Duro Canyon • Big Texan Steakhouse


Panhandle Plains Museum




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$1,979.00 Single Occup; $1,199.00 Triple and Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


YellowstoneDay 1: Tulsa, OK ($10 free play)Today’s destination is the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel after a visit to the Creek CouncilHouse Museum in Okmulgee, OK. Day 2: Salina, KS (B)Highlights of today’s travel include a tour of old town Wichita, KS, to experience some of the history of this “cowtown” and a visit to the Eisenhower Museum. Day 3: Mitchell, SD (B) Head to Mitchell, South Dakota, home of the World’s Only Corn Palace. The Palace is an outstanding structure which stands as a tribute to the agricultural heritage of South Dakota. The Corn Palace began in 1892 as “The Corn Belt Exposition,” and early settlers displayed the fruits of their harvest on the exterior of the building to prove the fertility of South Dakota soil. Day 4: Rapid City, SD (B) On the way to Rapid City, have lunch at the famous Wall Drug. Later, ride a short distance to the Badlands National Park. Then, take a tour of the Mt. Rushmore Black Hills Gold Factory and explore the President’s Walk. Day 5: Gillette, WY (B) Tour two of the six National Parks within the Black Hills. Mt. Rushmore is the monumental granite sculpture by Gutzon Borglum. It is easily recognizable by the 60 foot sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The Crazy Horse Monument is the world’s largest mountain sculpture carving a memorial to the spirit of legendary Lakota leader Crazy Horse and his culture. Day 6: Cody, WY (B) Explore the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. The Center consists of five museums: The Buffalo Bill Museum examines both the personal and public life of W.F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Also, take in The Whitney Gallery of Western Art, The Plains Indian Museum, The Cody Firearms Museum, The Draper Museum of Natural History and The Harold McCracken Research Library. Day 7: West Yellowstone (B) Today’s highlight is a tour of Yellowstone National Park including the geyser “Old Faithful.” Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park is America’s first national park. It is home to a large variety of wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Day 8: Laramie, WY (B) Explore the south loop of Yellowstone on the way to the Grand Tetons. Grand Teton National Park preserves a spectacular landscape rich with majestic mountains, pristine lakes and extraordinary wildlife. Day 9: Cripple Creek, CO (B) Today’s destination is Cripple Creek, CO, and the exciting Double Eagle Casino. Relax in this beautiful old mining town or try the gaming at the numerous casinos.

Day 10: Amarillo, TX (B) Leave the beautiful mountains of Colorado behind and depart for Amarillo and the Big Texan Steakhouse.

Day 11: Home (B) Sit back, relax and chat with friends about all the fun, the great sights, and plan the next trip!

YELLOWSTONE/BADLANDS/GRAND TETONS HIGHLIGHTS: • Yellowstone National Park • Mt. Rushmore • Crazy Horse Monument • Eisenhower Museum, Abilene, Kansas • World’s Only Corn Palace, Mitchell, SD




Grand Tetons National Park

Yellowstone National Park



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup.$2,199.00 Single Occup; $1,479.00 Triple and $1,399.00 Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Joplin, MORelax and enjoy the scenery as the coach travels through Oklahoma and into Missouri. Day 2: Indianapolis, IN (B) Depart Joplin and head for St. Louis and the famous Gateway Arch after a stop in Diamond, MO at the George Washington Carver National Monument. Then you can sit back and relax as you drive across the state of Illinois on the way to Indianapolis IN.Day 3: Taylor, MI (B) Tour the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History which provides a presentation of the diverse history and culture of African Americans and their African origins. After finishing the visit to the Museum, make a driving tour of Detroit. Day 4: Windsor, ON (B)Today will begin with a visit to the Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village. The all-day train pass lets you enjoy the African-American Theme Itinerary and look for Rosa Parks’ bus. Next, tour Motown before driving to Windsor, ON, just a quick 30 minutes away. Windsor was the final destination of thousands of slaves that fled the plantations of the South.Day 5: Niagara Falls, ON (B) Today, drive to Dresden to visit the Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historical Site, the home of Josiah Henderson, a former slave immortalized by Harriet Beecher Stowe in her book against slavery. Henderson established businesses and a school on the 200-acre settlement. Day 6: Niagara Falls, ON (B) Meet the step-on guide for a tour of Niagara Falls, and experience the Falls up close with a ride on the Maid of the Mist. Later, enjoy some free time. Day 7: Niagara Falls, ON (B) Meet the step-on guide for a tour of Toronto, including the CN Tower, Casa Loma, St. Lawrence Market, and Eaton Centre.

Day 8: Beckley, WV (B) Tour parts of New York and Pennsylvania before reaching Beckley, WV,Day 9: Atlanta, GA (B) Continue to Atlanta, GA. Relax and enjoy the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains as we cross West Virginia, Virginia and North Carolina. Day 10: Atlanta, GA (B) The tour of Atlanta today will include the CNN Studio and the MLK National Historic Tour. Day 11: Mobile, AL (B)

This morning tour Montgomery and follow the path of the Civil Rights history, including Union Station, Rosa Parks Museum, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, and the Civil Rights Memorial. Later depart for Mobile, AL. Day 12: Home (B) Relax and reminisce about the favorite parts of this trip on the way to Houston today, and plan the next adventure with First Class Tours.


12 days / 11 nights

Black History BLACK HISTORY TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Niagara Falls • Henry Ford Museum

• St. Louis Gateway Arch • Charles H. Wright Museum • Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historical Site


Atlanta Skyline

Passport Required





281-590-8800


Blues HighwayStarting from:$499per person, dbl occup.

5 days / 4 nights

BLUES HIGHWAY TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Paragon Casino, Marksville, LA

• Vicksburg National Military Park

• B. B. King Museum

• Graceland



Vicksburg to Memphis

Day 1: Marksville, LARelax on the ride to Marksville, LA, and the fabulous Paragon Resort & Casino. Enjoy the gaming, a movie or watch the alligators.

Day 2: Indianola, MS Ride to Vicksburg, MS, for a guided tour of the National Military Park Battlefield before continuing up the Blues Highway (US-61) to Indianola, MS.

Day 3: Tunica, MS (B, 1 buffet of choice)Today, tour the B. B. King Museum in Indianola before traveling on to Clarksdale, MS. for a tour of the Delta Blues Museum. Relax on the ride through the Mississippi Delta to Tunica and the Gold Strike Casino & Hotel. Try the gaming in this luxurious casino.

Day 4: Tunica, MS (1 buffet of choice)After a short drive this morning to Memphis, enjoy a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland. Then it is on to Beale Street in Memphis.

Day 5: Home Depart Tunica and head to Houston. Relax and enjoy the memories of the trip following the Blues Highway and the Blue’s legends from the Mississippi Delta.

Memphis Beal Street

Young Elvis Presley

String Instruments




281-590-8800



Starting from:

Day 1: Lafayette, LA.Get ready for a Cajun adventure and relax on our way to Lafayette, LA. Tour Lafayette, including the Acadian Village, an authentic recreation of an Acadian settlement in South Louisiana during the 19th Century and the Jean Lafitte Park and Preserve, which houses exhibits pertaining to the Cajun culture and way of life in the Atchafalaya basin.

Day 2: Baton Rouge, LA. (B)Continue our Cajun adventure with a tour of Avery Island, the world-famous McIlhenny Tabasco plant and the 250-acre Jungle Gardens. The Jungle Gardens are home to a wide variety of wildlife and beautiful gardens and marsh areas. Next, head to New Iberia, LA and tour the National Historic Site: Shadows-on-the-Teche. This lovely mansion has everything a Southern Plantation should have: live oaks, family heirlooms, big white pillars and beautiful furnishings. Next, ride to St. Martinsville and tour the Longfellow-Evangeline State Commemorative Area, 157 acres of moss-laden oak trees and Acadian plantation house. See the “Evangeline Oak” that marks the spot where Evangeline waited for her lover Gabriel. Then relax and ride across the 18.2 mile Atchafalaya River Bridge.

Day 3: Baton Rouge, LA. (B)In Baton Rouge, tour many exciting sites, including the USS Kidd and Nautical Center, the Old Capitol, LSU’s Rural Life Museum. The USS Kidd is a meticulously restored Fletcher class destroyer that was awarded twelve battle stars in the Pacific. At the Rural Life Museum, encounter the past at one of the “Top 10 Outdoor Museums in the World,” according to the British Museum.

Day 4: Home (B + L)Before heading home today, enjoy a private tour of the Magnolia Mound Plantation, a 1790’s Creole planned house. The plantation house was once the center of a 900-acre operation. The main house was built in the 1790’s. Spanning the colonial era and early statehood, Magnolia Mound’s collection of furnishings and decorative arts include one of the foremost groups of Louisiana artifacts.


4 days / 3 nights

Louisiana Cajun Tour

Magnolia Mound

USS Kidd

LOUISIANA CAJUN TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • McIlhenny Tabasco Plant • Acadian Village

• Shadows-on-the-Teche • Magnolia Mound Plantation

• USS Kidd and Nautical Center





281-590-8800


Southern SwingStarting from:

Day 1: Vicksburg, MSDrive to Vicksburg, which sits on the bluffs of the mighty Mississippi River and be reminded of Civil War history at the Vicksburg National Military Park.

Day 2: Montgomery, AL (B)Today’s destination is the city of Montgomery. Go back in time and touch the past at “Old Alabama Town” and see how and where the pioneers lived and worked 200 years ago.

Day 3: Pine Mountain, GA (B)Travel to one of the most colorful and pristine beauties in Georgia, Callaway Gardens. Take time to enjoy the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, the glass-enclosed tropical butterfly conservatory that is home to more than 1,000 butterflies, and the John A. Sibley Horticultural Center, a garden/greenhouse complex spreading over five acres with more than 20, 000 square feet of indoor floral displays.

Day 4: Macon, GA (B)Head to the Little White House, site of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s death. Enjoy the drive through Macon to the 1903 St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, reminiscent of the great European cathedrals, featuring Carrera marble, beautiful stained glass windows and 200 foot spires.

Day 5: Birmingham, AL (B)Travel to Atlanta for a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. Eight million gallons of fresh and marine water make this the world’s largest aquarium. See some of the 100,000 animals that have been collected from all parts of the world – the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Australian coral reefs to name a few. Relax and view the beautiful scenery as the bus travels to Birmingham, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Day 6: Biloxi, MS (B)Traverse the state of Alabama into Mississippi, arriving at Biloxi. This evening is free to enjoy the gaming or check out some of the entertainment.

Day 7: Home(B)Now it is time to return to Houston. Take time to chat with friends and plan another great trip.


7 days / 6 nights

SOUTHERN SWING TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Vicksburg National Military Park

• “Old Alabama Town”

• Callaway Gardens

• Little White House

• Georgia Aquarium


Classic Revival, Macon Georgia

Mississppi, Alabama & Georgia

Callaway Gardens



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America All money is due upon booking. Price is per person. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Christmas ToursNatchitoches Christmas FestivalDecember 3, 2011 Departure Time - 8:00 AMDeparture Location - Eastex Terminal$45.00 - per person includes transportation and entrance fee to the festival

Experience the charm of the original French colony in Louisiana during the Festival of Lights and Christmas Festival, one of the nation’s oldest community-based holiday celebrations. Enjoy the parade, live entertainment, food fair, arts and crafts show and much more!

San Marcos Outlet MallDecember 10, 2011Departure Time - 8:00 AMDeparture Location - Eastex Terminal$31.00 per person transporation charge only

Let’s go shopping! Join us for a day trip to the Prime Outlets in San Marcos, TX. Prime Outlets was voted the “Third-Best Place to Shop in the World” by ABC’s The View and is the largest outlet shopping destination in Texas and the third largest in the world. This spectacular shopping mecca is also one of the top most visited tourist attractions in Texas with 140 stores.

Santa’s WonderlandDecember 17, 2011Departure Time - 3:00 PMDeparture Location - Eastex Terminal$29.00 per person including transportation & entrance fee into Santa’s Town

Come and experience the wonder of Christmas! Come to Santa’s Wonderland, A Texas Experience. Gather friends, family, and neighbors for an unforgettable evening celebrating the holidays with great food, fun, and festivities. Enjoy the Christmas Village featuring dazzeling lights on a winding path for over a mile! Then just relax & enjoy the holiday foods, unique shops and live music around a cozy campfire.

Starting from:$45

per person

Starting from:$31

per person

Starting from:$29

per person

First Class Tours Presents December 3 / December 10 / December 17, 2011




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person.$1,449.00 Single Occup; $999.00 Triple and Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Governors Palace

First Class Tours Presents December 11 - 19, 2011

Starting from:

Day 1: Biloxi, MSToday’s destination is Biloxi, MS. Enjoy an evening at the award winning IP Casino • Resort • Spa. Towering over the scenic Back Bay of Biloxi, the IP is home to great food, gaming, and accommodations.

Day 2: Greenville, SC Travel to Greenville, SC driving through scenic Alabama and Georgia.

Day 3: Suffolk, VA (B)This evening, overnight in Suffolk, VA just a short drive from our destination of Williamsburg, VA. The tour today will pass through North Carolina and into beautiful Virginia.

Day 4: Williamsburg, VA (B, D)America’s Historic Triangle consists of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. Perhaps more vividly than anywhere else in America, the exciting story of our nation’s past comes to life in Virginia’s restored colonial capital, Williamsburg. Today, visit the Virginia Living Museum and the “Star of Wonder”. Experience the journey of the Magi from a new perspective! This evening enjoy “Dinnertainment” at historic Boxwood Inn complete with caroling, hot cider and wandering minstrels. Later, drive through the Celebration in Lights, a two mile journey through spectacular light displays in Newport News. Before settling into your hotel room, enjoy milk and cookies a’la Santa Claus upon check-in to your hotel.

Day 5: Williamsburg (B)Today begins with a guided tour of Yorktown Victory Center which recaptures the drama of the American Revolution. Next, enjoy a guided tour of Jamestown Settlement which commemorates the first permanent English settlement in the New World. In the late afternoon, be filled with all things Christmas at Christmas Town, A Busch Gardens Celebration.

Day 6: Williamsburg (B, D)Arrive at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center and tour Colonial Williamsburg including the Capitol and the Governor’s Palace. Later, visit Merchant’s Square, the shopping hub of Williamsburg. Next, shop at Prime Outlets and Yankee Candle. This evening, enjoy a hearty dinner at Colonial Tavern once frequented by British Colonial Governors and rebellious Revolutionaries – men who we now call our American Founding Fathers.

Day 7: Asheville, NC (B)In the morning, visit the Berkeley Plantation decorated in the Christmas traditions of the early 19th century. Berkeley Plantation is the site of the first official Thanksgiving in 1619 and also the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison, a signer to the Declaration of Independence. Before departing for Asheville, NC, visit the Edgewood Plantation. An exquisite 7,000 square foot example of Carpenter’s Gothic architecture, Edgewood has a dramatic history as a church, post office, telephone exchange, restaurant, nursing home and a signal post for the Confederate Army. Travel through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains to Asheville, NC.

Day 8: Biloxi, MS ($11 Food Voucher / $15 Rewards Play)Enjoy a driving tour of the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home and depart for Biloxi, MS. Enjoy the breath-taking scenery as the bus travels across North Carolina and Alabama for a second overnight at the IP Casino • Resort • Spa.

Day 9: HomeRelax and enjoy reminiscing about this fantastic trip with fellow travelers on the way to Houston.


9 days /8 nights

CHRISTMAS IN COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG HIGHLIGHTS: • Colonial Williamsburg • Boxwood Inn, Berkeley & Edgewood Plantations

• Jamestown Settlement • Christmas Town, A Busch Gardens Celebration

• Yorktown Victory Center • Vicksburg National Military Park

Williamsburg

Beautiful Decorations

Christmas




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Palace Theater

Gaylord Texan

Grapevine

Day 1: Grapevine, TXRelax and enjoy the ride along Interstate 45 to Grapevine with a stop in Corsicana at the Russell Stover Candy Factory. Later, take a guided tour of the historic Grapevine downtown area, watch a glassblowing demonstration, and experience Christmas on Main Street. This evening take in a performance of the Grapevine Opry Spectacular at the Palace Theater.

Day 2: Grapevine, TX (B)Today, head to Fort Worth to browse the shops in the historic Stockyards, visit the Stockyard Museum, see Christmas on Exchange Street, watch the famous longhorn cattle drive. On the way back to Grapevine, stop at the Delaney Vineyards for a tour and wine tasting. Tonight have a delicious buffet dinner at the Gaylord Texan and watch a Christmas-themed Murder Mystery.

Day 3: Home (B)Do a little last minute Christmas Shopping at Grapevine Mills Mall before returning to Houston. Relax and chat with friends and plan the next trip.

GRAPEVINE, TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Grapevine Opry Spectacular

• Murder Mystery Dinner

• Historic Stockyards, Fort Worth

• Grapevine Mills Mall



3 days / 2 nights

Main Street at Christmas

Texas - Christmas Tour




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America.$25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup. $2,699.00 Single Occup; $1,849.00 Triple and $1,799.00 Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). Tours include round trip motorcoach transportation, lodging, driver & escort tips & admission to listed attractions when applicable.

FALL FOLIAGE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Brilliant Fall Foliage • Salem Witch Museum • Outlet Malls of Kittery, Maine

• City of Boston Guided Tour • The House of Seven Gables • Louisville Slugger Bat Factory • Vermont’s Green Mountains • Rock and Roll Hall of Fame • Hearst Castle • New Hampshire’s White Mountains

First Class Tours Presents October 13 - 24, 2011


per person, dbl occup.12 days / 11 nights

Day 1: Meridian, MS (D)Get ready and depart to see the brilliant fall colors of the Northeast. Relax and enjoy the scenery as the motorcoach travels through Louisiana to Mississippi. Enjoy dinner at one of Meridian’s fine restaurantsDay 2: Asheville, NC (B, D) Today, head to Asheville, NC. Asheville is home to Biltmore. Biltmore is America’s largest home built by George Vanderbilt and opened in 1895. It features 4 acres of floor space, 250 rooms, 34 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. Enjoy a driving tour of this 8,000 acre estate. A great dinner will conclude the day in Asheville.Day 3: Harrisburg, PA (B, D) This morning the tour will take us to Harrisburg, PA. Harrisburg is the capital of the state of Pennsylvania and its ninth largest city. Harrisburg is also known for the infamous Three Mile Island accident, which occurred on March 28, 1979 in Londonderry Township near Middletown. Enjoy dinner in Harrisburg.Day 4: Ledyard, CT (B)Today head to Ledyard, CT, which is home to the Foxwoods Casino. Foxwoods comprises six casinos that offer more than 6,200 slot machines and an incredible 380 tables for 17 different types of table games, including 100 for poker.Day 5: Boston, MA (D) After a short ride to Boston this morning, enjoy the historic Quincy Marketplace. Later, learn about Boston’s rich history on a four-hour guided walking/riding tour of Boston (Sites include: Boston Common, Boston Tea Party, USS Constitution and more!). Enjoy dinner at Boston’s oldest Italian restaurant, Jeveli’s.Day 6: Portland, ME (B, D) This morning arrive in Salem, MA for a one-hour guided tour. Salem is older than Boston and steeped in the tragic history of its infamous Witch Trials in the summer of 1692. Visit The House of the Seven Gables which is listed on The National Register of Historic Places. Later enjoy the outlet shopping of Kittery, ME before arriving in Kennebunk for a trolley tour of this famous sea port town. This evening, arrive in Portland for dinner at the renowned floating restaurant, DiMillo’s which features great seafood and fabulous views of the port.Day 7: Rutland, VT (B, D) This morning explore the Old Port at your leisure. Stroll down the cobblestone streets and experience the quaint charm of this district. Boutique shopping, one-of-a-kind stores, restaurants serving Maine’s famous lobster dishes are all unparalleled to any other New England city. The smell of the sea air, the sound of a foghorn, and the chatter of seagulls add to an atmosphere that is undeniably Maine. This afternoon travel through New Hampshire’s White Mountains and into Vermont’s Green Mountains. Tonight’s dinner is at a favorite; chef-owned restaurant, South Station. Day 8: Utica, NY (B, D) Today, embark on a Vermont back-roads tour of country stores and covered bridges. This afternoon, visit the Plymouth Notch Historic District and the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site (considered the best-preserved presidential birthplace in the nation). Later, before you depart for Utica, NY, enjoy the fresh-baked apple pie and homemade ice cream at the Apple Barn and Country Bakeshop.Day 9: Cleveland, OH (B, D) This morning, leave the state of New York and head to Cleveland, OH which is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. At the Hall of Fame, you will re-live the history of rock-n-roll music through the lives of its most influential stars and producers. Enjoy dinner this evening in Cleveland.Day 10: Louisville, KY (B, D) Upon arrival in Louisville, visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. It takes a special place to craft the Official Bat of Major League Baseball. Since 1884, Louisville Slugger has put prime lumber in the hands of the greatest players of the game. A visit to the museum shows you how the sport has changed a bit between then and now, but the “crack of the bat” remains one of the sporting world’s most thrilling moments. Enjoy dinner at a fine Louisville restaurant.Day 11: Tunica, MS (B) Today, depart for Tunica, MS and the fabulous Gold Strike Hotel and Casino for an overnight stop.Day 12: Home Board the motorcoach this morning to head for Texas! After a scenic drive south through Arkansas and East Texas, arrive in Houston this evening.

Fall Foliage

281-590-8800First Class Tours 55


Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Austin is the playground of Texas. Situated at the center of the Lone Star State, it stands as the gateway to the Texas Hill Country and Highland Lakes. The University of Texas as well as the state government resides here along with a large creative population of techies, musicians and artists. Tour the State Capitol building. Built in the Texas tradition of being bigger and better, it is seven feet taller than the Federal Capitol in Washington, D. C. and is the largest capitol building in the nation. Visit the Presidential Library of Lyndon B. Johnson, the country’s 36th President and the Bob Bullock Texas State Museum. Drive by the historic governor’s mansion, the University of Texas Campus, and the infamous Sixth Street. (L)

$99per person

Austin

University of Texas, Austin

AUSTIN, TEXAS DAY TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: • State Capitol

• Lyndon Johnson Presidential Library

• Bob Bullock Texas State Museum

• University of Texas Campus

• Lunch Included


Texas State Capitol

Sixth Street

Texas




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person. $239.00 Single Occup; $179.00 Triple and Quad. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Beaumont, TXVisit the St. Anthony Catholic Church, built as the first Catholic Church of Beaumont, Texas in 1903. Its roots reach back into the nineteenth century. Explore the fascinating world of petroleum science from the formation of oil to the geology surrounding it. Talking robotic characters relate the story of early oil well drilling and discover the beginnings of the Texas oil industry as historical characters share their adventures of the great Spindletop Gusher of 1901 at the Texas Energy Museum. Entering the Chambers House is truly like stepping back in time. This home and its contents reflect the period from 1920 - 1945, with the emphasis being on the 1920’s. Next, visit the Babe Zaharias Museum to learn about this amazing athlete.

Day 2: Home (B)In Orange, a modern Shangri La has been recreated with the best of both nature and gardens. Nestled within 252 acres in the heart of Orange, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a program of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. Visit the Piney Woods Country Winery & Vineyards, one of the pioneers of Texas wineries. Licensed in 1985 the winery has enjoyed over 20 years of success, featuring Muscadine grape and fruit wines. The winemaker, Alfred J Flies, has been honored four times for his contributions to the Texas wine industry.

$189per person dbl occup

2 days / 1 night

Babe Zaharias Museum

Botanical Gardens

GOLDEN TRIANGLE TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Texas Energy Museum

• St. Anthony’s Cathedral

• The Chambers House

• Babe Zaharias Museum

• Shangri La Gardens

• Piney Woods Winery

Beaumont, Port Arthur & Orange


Winery

Golden Triangle



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup. $469.00 Single Occup; $329.00 Triple and Quad. Occup.For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

USS Lexington

Day 1: Corpus Christi, Texas The tour of Corpus Christi today will include the Heritage Park and Multicultural Center, a collection of nine historical homes dating to 1851; the Selena Museum; Selena’s gravesite and her memorial; and the Asian Cultures Museum and Educational Center.

Day 2: Corpus Christi, Texas (B)The Texas State Aquarium with its Dolphin Training, Diver in the Water, and Wild Flight shows is the first stop this morning. Next, enjoy the USS Lexington tour. Now it is time to relax on the beach or look for shells.

Day 3: Home (B)Visit the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and history with its relics from the 1686 French LaBelle and its full-size replicas of Columbus’ ships:the Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria before departing for Houston.

Corpus Christi, TX


3 days / 2 nights

Corpus ChristiCORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Heritage Park & Multicultural Center

• Selena Museum

• USS Lexington • Texas State Aquarium • Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History

First Class Tours Presents February 2 - 4, 2011

Selena’s Gravesite Memorial

Texas





281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Dallas, TexasEnjoy such sights as John Neely Bryan’s log cabin (founder of Dallas), Old Red Courthouse, Dealy Plaza grassy knoll and the JFK assassination site, the JFK memorial, and Pioneer Plaza. This tour includes admission to the 6th Floor JFK Museum and the Aquarium. Now get ready for the experience of Southfork Ranch, the television home of the famous Ewing Family. This visit will be an unforgettable experience with its live entertainment, guided tour of the mansion and grounds and real chuck wagon dinner.

Day 2: Home (B)The sights of Dallas on today’s agenda include the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the Dallas Museum of Art and the Dallas Cowboy Stadium before returning to Houston.


2 days / 1 night

DALLAS, TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Cowboy Stadium

• 6th Floor JFK Museum

• Dallas Aquarium

• Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

• Old Red Courthouse

First Class Tours Presents November 1 - 2, 2011

Dallas Arboretum

New Dallas Stadium

6th Floor Museum

TexasDallas




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Kilgore, TXHead to Henderson and Kilgore and stroll through the Piney Woods. Today, visit the East Texas Oil Museum. The East Texas Oil Museum is a tribute to independent oil producers and wildcatters who dared to dream of free enterprise. Next, visit the Kilgore Rangerette Museum home to Kilgore College’s world-famous precision drill and dance team. Later, tour the London Museum, a memorial to over 300 who perished in the London school explosion of 1937. Learn how this incident changed the natural gas industry. Now, step back in time and see how people lived in the 1930 oil boom while touring the Gaston Museum which presents life in the East Texas oil field from the 1930’s through 1960’s. Additionally, drive by the World’s Richest Acre, the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, and the Daisy Bradford Oil Well.

Day 2: Home (B)Before heading home today, visit Monte Verdi Plantation, shop at Gourmet Gardens and Jordan’s Plant Farm, take a ride of the Texas State Railroad, and tour the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame/Tex Ritter Museum. MONTE VERDI meaning “Green Mountain” is located high on a hill in Rusk County Texas. Situated on a 10,721 acre plantation, Monte Verdi is an architectural showplace built in the Greek revival style in 1856. The historic Texas State Train travels through the scenic piney woods and hardwood creek bottoms of East Texas where rolling hills, nature and wildlife abound. The Texas State Railroad offers both steam and diesel train excursions reminiscent of days gone by.


2 days / 1 night

East TexasEAST TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Texas State Railroad Train Ride

• East Texas Oil Museum

• London Museum

• Kilgore Rangerette Museum

• Monte Verdi Plantation

First Class Tours Presents February 21-22, 2011

Rangerette Museum

Kilgore

Oil Rig





281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Fort Worth, TexasThe city tour of includes such sights as the Water Gardens, Sundance Square, and Billy Bob’s of Texas, the world’s largest honky tonk. Finish in the historic Stockyards and take time to browse the shops, visit the Stockyard’s Museum and ride the Tarantula, a restored 1896 steam train, eat dinner at one of a variety of restaurants and listen to some of the finest country music Texas has to offer.

Day 2: Home (B)Visit one of Fort Worth’s outstanding art museums or the beautiful Fort Worth Zoo, The Log Cabin Village, the Monnig Meteorite Gallery, Thistle Hill, one of the premier residential landmarks of Fort Worth, and Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House, the Queen Anne-style Victorian designed by Howard Messer before returning to Houston with great experiences to share.


2 days / 1 night

FORT WORTH TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Sundance Square

• Billy Bob’s of Texas

• Historic Stockyards

• Fort Worth Zoo or Art Museum

• Thistle Hill


Fort Worth Skyline

Texas

Fort Worth Tarantula Train

Fort Worth Water Gardens

Fort Worth




281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: Fredericksburg, Texas (L, D)Get ready for a relaxing drive to Fredericksburg with a stop in Austin to visit the LBJ Library and the Bob Bullock Museum, and the LBJ Ranch.

Day 2: Home (B)Enjoy some time for shopping and lunch in downtown Fredericksburg before departing for Houston. Visit Enchanted Rock and the Admiral Nimitz Museum en route.


2 days / 1 night

Fredericksburg

Enchanted Rock

FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • LBJ Library

• Bob Bullock Museum

• LBJ Ranch

• Enchanted Rock

• Admiral Nimitz Museum

First Class Tours Presents March 23 - 24, 2011

Main Street, Fredericksburg

Admiral Nimitz Museum

Texas




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:$89

per person

GALVESTON, TX DAY TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:

• Lone Star Flight Museum

• Ocean Star

• Elissa

• Moody Gardens’ Rainforest Pyramid

Bishops Palace


GalvestonTexas

Start the day relaxing on the ride to Galveston, a small romantic island tucked deep within the heart of south Texas. It offers 32 miles of relaxing beaches, superb restaurants, marvelous shopping, numerous antique shops, incredible art galleries, and one of the largest and well-preserved concentrations of Victorian architecture in the country. The island has seen its share of calamities, yet the worst natural disaster inUS history could not erase the tranquility of Galveston.

The first stop will be the Lone Star Flight Museum. This museum is home to one of the finest collections of restored aircraft and aviation exhibits in the nation. Over 40 restored aircraft are displayed and most are in working condition. The collection includes World War II Fighters, Bombers, Liaison Trainers, and Executive Planes.After lunch continue the tour of the island with a stop at the Ocean Star. This totally unique museum and learning center is a jack-up rig located on Galveston’s Pier 19. From geological exploration, to drilling, to oil and gas production, you will see offshore drilling equipment, exhibits, and videos on three levels of this refurbished offshore drilling rig. Also, take time to tour the Elissa, a three-mast, iron-hulled sailing ship built in 1877 in Scotland.

Later, tour the Bishop’s Palace. Originally known as Gresham’s Castle, the home was erected in 1886 at an estimated cost of $250,000 by Colonel Walter Gresham, a wealthy Galveston attorney. Designed by a well-known architect, Nicholas Clayton, it is built from native Texas granite, white limestone and red sandstone, all cut and shaped on the premises. Many rare woods, like rosewood, satinwood, white mahogany, American oak and maple were used for the interior, hand-carved woodwork. Massive sliding doors are unique in that the wood surface on each side of the door matches the room it faces. On the way back to Houston, make a stop at Moody Gardens for a refreshing visit to the Rainforest Pyramid.

Flight Museum

Victorian Home



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Get a true taste of Houston, the country’s fourth largest city. The city attracts visitors with its wonderful mix of world-class arts, booming business, pro sports and award-winning cuisine. Here much of the daily life happens outdoors thanks to the mild, year-round temperatures. Take time to explore the eclectic, culture filled neighborhoods and attractions which offer diverse flavors that only be found in Houston. Drive by the Adickes Sculpturworx Studio of the concrete sculptor responsible for the larger than life busts of the Presidents of the United States and the impressive statue of Sam Houston. Across from the Galleria, view the inviting 64-foot Water Wall designed by Philip Johnson and John Burgee. Spot blue herons, loggerhead turtles and an occasional alligator sunning along the banks of Buffalo Bayou. Visit Jeff McKissack’s Orange Show, one of Houston’s most compelling folk art spaces made using concrete, brick, steel and just about anything else. See the landmark Beer Can House in the Heights, made from 50,000 flattened beer cans. Sample brews at the Saint Arnold Brewery, Texas’ oldest craft brewer. Finally peek inside a 1920s hearse made of six types of wood at the Funeral Museum.

$79per person

HOUSTON TEXAS DAY TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: • Adickes Sculpturworx Studio

• Project Row Houses

• Buffalo Bayou

• Beer Can House

• Funeral Museum


Beer Can House

The Orange Show

Orange Show photo courtesy Larry Harris

Larger than life Presidents

TexasHouston





281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: New BraunfelsNew Braunfels has earned the title of “The German Heritage Center of Texas.” One reason for this is Wurstfest celebrated here every October since 1961. Experience this unique Hill Country town where a variety of German-themed entertainment, food, dancing, and special events abound. The main attraction is the Wursthalle, an enormous old cottonseed warehouse lined with tables where people can sample all types of wurst, including bratwurst and Texas favorites of jalapeno and barbecue.

Day 2: New Braunfels (B)Visit the turn-of-the-century community of Gruene. Once almost a ghost town, it is now a part of New Braunfels, but it still retains its charm and popularity with shoppers.

Day 3: Home (B)Return to Houston after visiting the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch and the Natural Bridge Caverns.


3 days / 2 nights

NEW BRAUNFELS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Excellent Food

• Great Music

• Fantastic Fun

Gruene Hall

Wurstfest!

Natural Bridge Caverns

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch


New BraunfelsTexas



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person based on Dbl. Occup. For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Start with a relaxing on the ride to the Bryan/College Station area. The first stop will be at the Messina Hof Winery where the wine making heritage dates back seven generations to Messina, Italy. The Bonarrigo family has handed down the art of wine making for over two-hundred years, and the result is seen in everything they do. The included lunch will be in their Vintage Restaurant. (L)

Next, journey to the George Bush Library and Museum to see the exhibits that reveal the unique influences and challenges that shaped George Bush’s life and presidency. These exhibits lead the visitor in an interactive walk through history with displays that explore the most important events of the 20th Century. Notable artifacts include a fully-restored World War II Avenger Torpedo Bomber, a sleek 1947 Studebaker, and a massive section of the Berlin Wall. Have a picture made while sitting in the seat of power in a replica of President Bush’s Oval Office.

Messina Hof Grapes

George Bush Library Horses

$89per person

Messina HofMESSINA HOF WINERY AND

GEORGE BUSH LIBRARY HIGHLIGHTS: • Wine Tasting & Lunch at Messina Hof

• George Bush Library & Museum

• Lunch included

First Class Tours Presents May 17 / September 7, 2011

Vineyards

Texas




Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America $25.00 non-refundable deposit upon registering and price per person.$419.00 Single Occup; $299.00 Triple and Quad. Occup. (3 day tour) $249.00 Single Occup; $189.00 Triple and Quad. Occup. (2 day tour)For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800


Starting from:

Day 1: San Antonio, TexasToday, visit the Rivercenter Mall to do some souvenir shopping and walk across to the Alamo for a tour of this historic mission. Construction of the Alamo began on the present site in 1724. Step inside Texas history and see where the major battle of the Alamo was fought on March 6, 1836 against Santa Anna and his army. Later, return to the Rivercenter and take the riverbarge ride on the San Antonio River. Then enjoy a stroll along the River Walk (Paseo del Rio) and sightsee at La Villita, San Antonio’s earliest residential settlement that dates back to the 1700s before returning to the Rivercenter Mall for a viewing of the IMAX movie “Alamo … The Price of Freedom.”

Day 2: San Antonio, Texas (B) Visit two historic missions: the 1731 Mission Nuestra Senorada de la Conception de Acuna and the 120 Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo. Next, see the Farmers Market and Market Square to shop before a walking tour of Downtown San Antonio. This tour includes the O. Henry House, Casa Navarro State Historical, the 1731 San Fernando Cathedral where remains of the defenders of the Alamo are said to be contained in a marble coffin; and the early 1700’s Spanish Governor’s Palace.

Day 3: Home (B)Drive to the King William Historic District for a tour the Steves Homestead and see the 1923 Guenther House with its castle-like towers. Tour the University of Texas at San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures and the SAS Shoe Factory before returning to Houston. San Antonio River Cruiser

per person dbl occup. 3 days / 2 night

San AntonioSAN ANTONIO, TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Alamo • La Villita

• San Antonio Riverbarge ride • Steves Homestead

• Spanish Governor’s Palace$319


Photos courtesy of the San Antonio CVBAlamo/ Richard Nowitz; River cruiser / Al Rendon

The Alamo at Dusk

Texas

Starting from:

per person dbl occup. 2 days / 1 night

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: • Alamo • La Villita

• Market Square • SAS Shoe Factory

• Rivercenter Mall

$199 February 7- 8, 2011




281-590-8800


First Class Tours Presents January 12 / April 20, 2011

Starting from:

Schulenburg Church

Schulenburg$89SCHULENBURG DAY TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:

• Kountry Bakery

• High Hill

• Ammansville

• Praha

• Dubina

• Frank’s Restaurant

Texas &The Painted Churches

Bakery Delights

BBQ

Relax on the ride to Schulenburg where the first stop is the Kountry Bakery to buy authentic kolaches. A guide will meet the group and head into the rolling hills of southeast Fayette County to view the beautifully painted historic churches of Ammansville, Dubina, High Hill and Praha. These churches have some of the most beautiful painted art work and stained glass in the country. You will enjoy lunch at Frank’s, a local favorite, included with your tour!

per person





281-590-880


First Class Tours Presents June 29 / October 19, 2011

Southern Empress

Starting from:

Ride to Conroe, TX, and travel back in time to a grand era of sumptuous hospitality and splendor as a guest aboard the Southern Empress Cruise. As you cruise scenic Lake Conroe, enjoy the romance of dining and dancing on this authentic riverboat. The opulence of the 1800’s is evident throughout this paddleboat with features such as antique-style bar, custom-cut leaded crystal doors and windows, chandeliers, polished brass, solid oak carved moldings, and raised paneling.

$79per person

SOUTHERN EMPRESS HIGHLIGHTS: • Riverboat Cruise on Lake Conroe

• Dinner & Dancing

Relax on a ride through beautiful East Texas to Palestine. The historic train ride begins through the scenic piney woods and hardwood creek bottoms of East Texas where rolling hills, nature and wildlife abound. The Texas State Railroad offers both steam and diesel train excursions reminiscent of days gone by. After lunch at the Rusk Depot, continue on to Nacogdoches to visit the Old Stone Fort and the Ruby Mize Azalea Gardens.

TEXAS STATE RAILROAD DAY TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: • Historic train ride • Old Stone Fort • Ruby Mize Azalea Garden

State RailroadStarting from:$99

per person

April 30 & October 8, 2011

Texas

Conroe, Texas

Texas State Railroad

Southern Empress




281-590-8800



Starting from:

Day 1: Corpus Christi, TXEnjoy the ride to Corpus Christi, TX, for a visit the Texas State Aquarium and the Science and History Museum.

Day 2: South Padre Island, TX (B)Drive to South Padre with a stop in Kingsville for a tour of the King Ranch. King Ranch, located in south Texas between Corpus Christi and Brownsville, is one of the world’s largest ranches with 825,000 acres. The ranch, founded in 1853 by Captain Richard King and Gideon K. Lewis, includes portions of six Texas counties.

Day 3: South Padre Island, TX (B)Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach after breakfast. Today is a free day for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

Day 4: South Padre Island, TX (B)Visit Port Isabel for some history and adventure while touring the museums. Port Isabel is one of the oldest continually inhabited areas founded by Europeans in North America as it was settled in 1554. The Port Isabel Lighthouse and the Museums of Port Isabel offer plenty of chances to get to know the local history.

Day 5: Home (B)Bid farewell to beautiful South Padre Island and depart for Houston. Relax and chat with friends and plan the next trip.


5 days / 4 nights

S.Padre IslandSOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TX TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

• Texas State Aquarium

• Tour of the King Ranch

• Port Isabel Museums

South Padre Island

Texas

Corpus Christi



Add peace of mind with First Class Tours Access America All money is due upon booking. Price is per person.

For more information or reservations contact:

281-590-8800



First Class Tours Presents October 7, 2010 / October 6, 2011

Starting from:

Fair Park, a 277-acre entertainment and recreation complex owned by the City of Dallas, is located two miles east of downtown. The park is the year-round home of the Music Hall, Cotton Bowl and eight museums. Fair Park is a National Historic Landmark and boasts the largest collection of art deco exposition buildings in the United States.

$49STATE FAIR OF TEXAS HIGHLIGHTS: • See World Famous Big Tex

• Eat a Fletcher’s Corn Dog

• Experience the Midway

• Ride the World’s Tallest Ferris Wheel

• See the Exhibits from Creative Arts to New Cars

Ferris Wheel

Midway

FAIR TICKET PRICES• General Admission: $15

• Kids under 48” tall: $11

• Children 2 and under: Free

• Seniors 60 and over: $11

• Seniors 60 and over: FREE ADMISSION

ON THURSDAYS ONLY

Depart 9:30 AM – Return 11:30 PM - 6 Hour State Fair Stay!

Admission, events, rides, meals, on your ownSee www.bigtex.com for more details

Prices subject to change without notice

per person

State Fair of Texas




281-590-8800

(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). All tours include round trip motorcoach transportation, lodging, driver & escort tips, and admission to listed attractions when applicable.

Home of Dr. Pepper Waco, TX

Waco, Texas Statue

First Class Tours Presents June 15 / November 2, 2011

WacoWACO & DR. PEPPER DAY TRIP HIGHLIGHTS: • Texas Rangers Hall of Fame & Museum

• Texas Sports Hall of Fame

• Armstrong Browning Library

• Suspension Bridge

Starting from:$89

per person

Texas

Begin the visit to Waco with a tour of the Dr. Pepper Museum, a place that serves up history, nostalgia, and Waco’s favorite authentic soda fountain drinks. Most people agree that there is nothing like a cold Dr. Pepper float on a hot summer day, especially in the ambiance of a restored turn-of-the-century soda fountain. Later, tour the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum, the official Hall of Fame for the Texas Rangers Law Enforcement Agency. The Texas Rangers, the oldest state law enforcement agency, play an important role in solving crimes and apprehending fugitives. It took Texas Rangers law enforcement to bring down Bonnie and Clyde. The museum focuses on the equipment of the Rangers and houses case studies of important investigations. Visitors can find such infamous collections as Bonnie and Clyde’s shotguns and the firearms used by the Rangers at the ambush. Next, visit the Texas Sports Hall of Fame that pays tribute to some of Texas sports greats. One step inside will engage visitors in an interactive tour of the history of Texas athletics. Then discover the love poetry of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning at the breathtaking Armstrong Browning Library on the Baylor University campus. Respected worldwide by scholars as the largest collection of the Browning’s works, the library allows visitors to take a glimpse into the lives of these great British Victorian poets. Finally, drive past the Historic Suspension Bridge, which was the longest suspension bridge west of the Mississippi when it was completed in 1870.




Call for pricing and itinerary information.

281-590-8800


Student Tours

Lincoln Memorial

First Class Tours is active in the student travel market today. Our experience ranges from college and university sports and academic teams to elementary student field trips. As with any type of passenger, our first priority is safety, however, being responsible for the children of parents takes safety and caution to a new level. Late-model coaches and vigorous preventative maintenance is a key component to our commitment to your children’s safety.

In addition to student and youth charter coaches, First Class Tours offers a variety of educational student tour itineraries across the country. Destinations include but are not limited to:

w Austin, TXw Washington, DCw Philadelphia, PAw Chicago, ILw Atlanta, GAAnd More! Give us a call today for your student travel needs, you will be glad you did!

Chicago Fountain

Philadelphia

Austin, Texas



.

Call for pricing and itinerary information.

281-590-8800

Academy Chapel

Join us for your next adventure!

Youth, Seniors, Mission projects, you name it, First Class Tours has the experience to handle your religious or church group travel needs. In addition to chartering motorcoaches for church groups and events, First Class Tours customizes itineraries for religious tour and travel groups.

Some of these destinations across the country are:

w Orlando, FLw Branson, MOw Charlotte, NCw Eureka Springs, ARAnd More!


Religious Travel

Crosses in the horizon

1488 painting by Herlin Friedrich



Documents

2011 Travel Guide