2016 - APT USA

52 Day 15. Charleston. Today you'll arrive in South Carolina's Charleston, named the friendliest city in the United States. Also known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture, Charleston boasts a wonderful blend of historic homes and grand residential gardens, along with more contemporary attractions including its extensive markets. Later, visit Middleton Place, one of South Carolina's most enduring icons, the birthplace of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and home to the United States oldest landscaped garden. Enjoy a private dinner at the Plantation Stableyards. Two Night Stay: Belmond Charleston Place. BD Day 16. Charleston. Explore the landmarks of this hospitable city during a guided tour. Following your tour, discover 18th-century Drayton Hall, the only home on the Ashley River to have survived the Revolutionary and Civil wars. This unique property has been preserved to its near-original condition so visitors can appreciate its authenticity. Afterwards, enjoy leisure time. Perhaps commemorate your Charleston visit with a photograph in front of its iconic pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park. B Day 17. Raleigh. Arrive in Raleigh in North Carolina, which is one of the USA's fastest growing cities. Stay: Holiday Inn Raleigh Downtown. BD AMERICA'S GRAND CAPITAL Day 18. Washington DC. Your journey today brings you to the capital of the USA and the home of its political heartland, Washington DC. Three Night Stay: Washington DC, The Fairmont Washington DC Georgetown. BD Day 19. Washington DC. On a guided tour today you will gain an insight into the United States' proud military and political history. During your tour, you will visit Arlington National Cemetery – a famous military resting place established during the American Civil War. You'll also see the White House and visit the National Mall, which is home to the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and several poignant war memorials – including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the National World War II Memorial. The National Mall was the site of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous 'I Have a Dream' speech, and an impressive memorial to the Civil Rights leader stands here. B Day 20. Washington DC. Today is yours at leisure. You might like to visit the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, or the National Museum of Natural History – all of which are fascinating attractions run by the Smithsonian Institution, which is the world's largest museum and research complex. This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner. BD THE BIG APPLE Day 21. New York City. Today, you will depart Washington DC for New York City, and on the way visit Philadelphia. Here, among other attractions, a city tour includes the Liberty Bell as well as a visit to Independence Hall, where America's founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. Afterwards, continue on to arguably the most famous city in the world – New York. After settling in to your hotel in Midtown Manhattan, enjoy dinner. Three Night Stay: New York City, The Westin New York Grand Central. BD Day 22. New York City. During a guided tour of Manhattan this morning, take in the landmarks of New York including the bustling Fifth Avenue; vibrant Times Square; Broadway's glitzy Theatre District; and the Lincoln Center, home to The Metropolitan Opera, The New York City Ballet and The New York Philharmonic Orchestra. You'll also see Greenwich Village, the former bohemian capital of the city; artistic Soho; and Wall Street. B Day 23. New York City. Cruise to the iconic Statue of Liberty, a gift to the United States from the people of France. You'll also visit Ellis Island. The rest of the day is yours at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner. BD Day 24. Depart New York City. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. B Explore the city of Savannah, taking in the stunning sights of its historic homes www.aptouring.co.nz

• Cover