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12 Day LA to the Bay
Contiki Regional Tour starting in Los Angeles and finishing in San Francisco
Countries Visited: USA 
Tour Type: Regional (18-35 years)
Tour Duration: 12 Days (11 Nights)
From: Los Angeles to San Francisco
Tour Code: WWLA
Operator: Contiki
from AU $1,665 pp
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Tour Description

Showing you the best of California along with a generous dollop of snow action, get ready for good times! First party with high rollers in Vegas for a truly unique experience. Then hit the slopes or hit up loads of other winter activities in the premier alpine area of Lake Tahoe. Leave the snow-covered mountains behind & check out cosmopolitan San Fran & the lush valleys of the American Riviera before checking out star-studded Hollywood to wrap up one wild stateside week!

What's Included

  • 10 nights accommodation: 8 nights in hotels & 2 nights in a cabin
  • 12 meals: 7 breakfasts & 5 dinners
  • An experienced & professional Tour Manager & Driver team
  • Modern, air-conditioned coach with powerpoints for charging
  • Sightseeing tours of all major cities
  • Local taxes & service charges
  • Ski passes, equipment & clothing are not included in the tour price

Highlights

San Diego
  • See downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Coronado Island & Old Town San Diego
  • Visit Mission Beach (weather permitting)
  • Only Contiki: Go loco as you feast on traditional Mexican cuisine
Phoenix
  • Scenic drive through Cleveland National Forest, the Anza Borrego and Sonoran desert
Sedona
  • Drive the scenic route through "Red Rock" country
  • Drive through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon
  • Shop for Native American jewelery
  • Visit America's unofficial capital of New Age mysticism
Grand Canyon
  • Stay in Grand Canyon National Park
  • Hike along the Canyon's South Rim
  • Watch a spectacular sunset & capture incredible photos with a visit to a panoramic viewpoint
Route 66
  • Stop for photos & souvenirs
Las Vegas
  • Evening tour of the famous Vegas 'Strip'
  • Visit Fremont Street
  • Experience some of the world's largest hotels & casinos
  • Non-stop nightlife
  • Only Contiki: Live it up Vegas-style with a limo ride & champagne
Lake Tahoe
  • Visit Lake Tahoe's South Shore
  • See famous Lake Tahoe
  • Get "Heavenly" views on a gondola ride in Lake Tahoe
San Francisco
  • Cross the Golden Gate Bridge
  • See North Beach, Chinatown, Golden Gate Park, Haight Ashbury & the city's iconic cable cars
  • Visit Fisherman's Wharf
  • Only Contiki: Sit back & chill in the San Fran sunset on a catamaran cruise www.adventurecat.com

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Day
1
Los Angeles To San Diego
Meet up with your Contiki crew and Tour Manager before cruising through Orange County and along the Pacific coastline to laid-back San Diego. Get a feel for the city's easy-going vibes with a look around San Diego's vibrant neighborhoods. In the Old Town, your Tour Manager will give you the story behind the original pueblo (village), with its Adobe buildings (made of brick, straw and mud) and show you the 19th century buildings of the Gaslamp Quarter. You'll also see Balboa Park, which holds the largest urban cultural park in the USA and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Tonight, make your first night on tour one to remember and get to know the group over dinner before heading out for a fun night exploring the Gaslamp District's funky live music venues or the cool bars on the beachfront.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Dinner (1)
Day
2
San Diego
With a full day in San Diego, live a bit of the California lifestyle and get into some outdoor activities. With 42 miles of beaches, a Mediterranean climate and loads of parks, San Diego is all about kicking back in the pleasant surrounds. Otherwise, visit the San Diego Zoo, known for its conservation efforts and vast numbers of animals (over 4000) or head to SeaWorld, known for its fun marine animal shows. If the weather is good, we'll cruise out to the locals' favorite spot, Mission Beach, for a few hours soaking up the sun or walking along the boardwalk for views of ocean. Don't forget your towel and swimmers.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast (1)
Day
3
San Diego To Phoenix
Things are about to get hotter as we head to Phoenix, a massive metropolis sitting smack in the middle of the desert. With around 300 days of sunshine per year, this place is all about shopping, sports and nightlife.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast (1)
Day
4
Phoenix To The Grand Canyon
Kick start the day with an unforgettable optional excursion: a hot-air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert and "Valley of the Sun". The combination of full blown vistas over the desert and a champagne breakfast upon landing make this an amazing experience. We continue deeper into the Wild West as we head to stunning Sedona. Chill out and watch the region's recognizable red rock cliffs, rugged spires and mesas (flat-topped rock formations) go by from the coach. Your Tour Manager will tell you about this eco-friendly town that is also known for its high-energy red rocks. There's a chance to explore this stunning red rock country with our Local Guide in an optional 4WD tour through the historic canyons. Learn local legends and even pick up a piece of Native American jewelery. We continue on to the mind-blowing landscape of the Grand Canyon, one of the world's most recognizable natural wonders and pride of Arizona.
Accommodation: Cabin
Meals: Breakfast (1), Dinner (1)
Day
5
Grand Canyon National Park
A day here means time to take in the immensity and spine-tingling beauty of the scene-stealing Canyon - it has got a rep for a reason! This morning get up close to this UNESCO World Heritage site on an optional helicopter ride and get another angle on the Canyon as you fly over it. Hike along the South Rim for mind-blowing vistas of the dramatic scenery. See some of the oldest exposed rocks on earth, take in the deep abyss and soak up the wildness of the area. There are trails for all levels of hiking, so take it up a notch or cruise along at your own pace. Wrap up the day with a canyon sunset and take in the stunning changes of light while the sun goes down.
Accommodation: Cabin
Day
6
Grand Canyon To Las Vegas
Leaving behind the Grand Canyon, we stop off at Seligman, an historic Route 66 town. Get a feel for the old style as you check out 1940's shop fronts and motels. Maybe pick up a souvenir for back home. Then following a section of the legendary Route 66, we head north. With down time on the coach, plug in your MP3, catch on some sleep or chat with your friends. Get ready to arrive in larger-than-life Las Vegas - a man-made entertainment oasis smack in the middle of the desert. Often dubbed Sin City, it's all about glitz, neon lights, and excess. See the bright lights of this city and its world-famous casinos in a first taste of Vegas kitsch as the group heads down the main drag, the "Strip", and your Tour Manager fills you in on the story behind Vegas. Then cruise downtown to Freemont Street and experience a slice of the spectacular at a light and laser show in a massive pedestrian mall.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast (1), Dinner (1)
Day
7
Las Vegas
With a free day, you've got time to get a real feel for this outrageous town, so keep an eye out for Elvis impersonators and fast-paced chapel weddings! Explore more of the Strip and check out over-the-top versions of international icons, like the Eiffel Tower, Venetian canals and gondolas, a Roman temple or the pyramid, whose nightlight can be seen from the moon. Try your luck at one of the casinos, sit yourself down at a blackjack table and watch the high-rollers or go for a ride at one of the casino's theme-parks. If you work up an appetite, tuck into an all you can eat buffet, and lunch American style. For something different, discover Las Vegas' trademark art at the Neon Museum and for a look into this town's atomic heyday in the 50s, visit the Atomic Testing Museum. If you just want to relax, position yourself poolside back at the hotel and soak up the Las Vegas sun. Tonight, get some pointers on Las Vegas' hot spots from your Tour Manager and make the most of this towns' 24/7 action with some of your new friends.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast (1)
Day
8
Las Vegas To Lake Tahoe
Leave behind the glitz, neon lights and excess as we head to the adventure capital of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Tahoe sits smack on the Nevada-California border and with blue lakes, green pines and tonnes of snow, it doesn't come short on scenery. Settle into your hotel room and maybe stretch your legs down by the lake - it's only a short walk.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Dinner (1)
Day
9
to
10
Lake Tahoe
Get into the alpine action and hit the slopes of some world-class resorts over the next two days. Ski and board some supreme powder, or have a go at snowmobiling and explore more of the mountain in a fun optional adventure activity. With hundreds of miles of slopes, there's something for everyone, so you can slow it down or pick up the pace. Wind down after a day in the mountains with the group and kick back with a well-earned drink. Check out the movie theater back at the hotel or head into the center for a night out. Try your luck at one of the casinos, sit yourself down at a blackjack table and watch the high-rollers. If you work up an appetite, tuck into a buffet and eat American style. Get some pointers on Tahoe's hot spots from your Tour Manager and make the most of this town's action.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast (2 days), Dinner (1 day)
Day
11
Lake Tahoe To San Francisco
Cruise on through the San Joaquin Valley to free-wheeling San Francisco, via Oakland. Colourful, cosmopolitan and creative, San Francisco is packed with characters, free-thinkers, and artists. You'll see the signs of its recent history where it served as the hub of the gold rush, as well as the centre for Beatnik and Hippy cultures. After crossing over the Bay Bridge for a panorama of the area, get familiar with this buzzing city as your Tour Manager shows you around San Francisco's key sights. We stop off at Fisherman's Wharf for a slice of the historic waterfront lifestyle, where you can order some fresh fish or crab from sidewalk stands. Cross San Francisco's landmark suspension bridge, the Golden Gate, and check out the city's iconic row houses on Alamo Square. Our tour ends in the afternoon. It's time to say goodbye to your new friends and Contiki Crew.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast (1)
Day
12
Depart San Francisco
This morning the tour ends and it's time to say goodbye to your new friends.
Contiki Brochure Click on the icon if you would like to view an electronic version of the brochure online.

12 Day LA to the Bay Reviews

Tour reviews from past clients of Global Journeys. 1 Reviews, Average Rating 5.0 of 5.

Absolutely exceeded all expectations! Great way to see all the hot spots of the west coast of the USA. Fantastic inclusions, incredible and affordable optionals, and amazing tour guide and driver - Monte and Adrian you're the best! [More+]

Value For Money
Accommodaton
Tour Guide
Tour Pace
Global Journeys Experience

Erin Johnston (Australia)
Tour Date 29/02/2012

Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 Contiki Sale! Save up to $65 per person. Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month only to qualify! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

START DATE END DATE BROCHURE
(Twin Share)
BROCHURE
(Single)
OUR
SAVINGS
OUR
PRICE
05 Dec 2012 16 Dec 2012 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
12 Dec 2012 23 Dec 2012 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
19 Dec 2012 30 Dec 2012 AU $1,815 AU $2,630 Save $65 AU $1,750
26 Dec 2012 06 Jan 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
02 Jan 2013 13 Jan 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
09 Jan 2013 20 Jan 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
16 Jan 2013 27 Jan 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
30 Jan 2013 10 Feb 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
13 Feb 2013 24 Feb 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
27 Feb 2013 10 Mar 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
06 Mar 2013 17 Mar 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665
13 Mar 2013 24 Mar 2013 AU $1,725 AU $2,314 Save $60 AU $1,665

Note: The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart. We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.

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  Click on the descriptions below for more detail. We will apply all valid discounts automatically to your quote to provide you with the best possible price. Terms & Conditions apply to the discounts below.

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General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: Contiki

Topdeck Contiki create hassle-free vacations with an unbeatable mix of sightseeing, culture, people your own age & free time. Contiki are the worldwide leader in tours for 18-35's, operating in over 40 countries around the world. Travel with Contiki & you'll make friends from all over the world & share some incredible times together.



Frequently Asked Questions

Do many people travel on Contiki solo?

Yeah they do, and they have an amazing time! About 50% of Contiki travellers are on their own, but not for long! The experience of travel builds lasting relationships which you'll cherish for your lifetime. If you're concerned about travelling alone, don't be, you're making one of the best decisions of your life.

Is Contiki only for 18 to 35 year olds?

Contiki are the original travel company for 18–35s. For Contiki, travelling is all about discovering amazing places with a bunch of like-minded people and having a great time doing it. To cater to this market and provide a product which not only meets, but exceeds your expectations, Contiki tours are only available to those between 18 and 35. In some circumstances, a passenger aged 17 will be accepted onto Contiki tours under the supervision of another passenger over 18 and with the consent of their parent or guardian.

How much luggage can I bring?

For Contiki's USA tours, luggage is restricted to one reasonable sized, non-expanding suitcase size up to 29" x 20" x 10" (73cm x 50cm x 25cm) and a maximum weight of 20 kilos (44lbs.) plus one small hand/day bag that can go on the coach with you. No metal frame backpacks please, their bulky shape makes coach packing difficult and they are likely to damage other luggage. Contiki reserves the right to refuse to accept larger suitcases on tour. Note: Baggage is carried at the owner's own risk and insurance is strongly recommended.

What should I pack?

Like spending money, everyone's bound to be different depending on how many unique outfits you want to wear, what the weather is going to be like, how often you're willing to do washing - (most of the places Contiki stay at have the facility to do washing). A great tip is to pack a range of things that can mix, match and layer!

How much spending money should I bring?

We're all different; some of us want souvenirs, some of us want to indulge in nights out and some want to shop til they drop and some just want to experience it all! Travellers cheques in small denominations (in a main currency) are the safest way to carry your personal spending money. In America, carry US$ travellers cheques. You can also get cash at local ATMs along the way if needed. Remember that you'll need to allow enough to cover lunches, some dinners, shopping, entrance fees to some attractions, optional activities and activities, souvenirs, drinks and evening entertainment/nightclubs. A full list of optional activities and approximate costs will be sent to you with your travel documents.

The tour I'm looking at doesn't have dates in the month I want to do it in, why not?

If departure dates are not showing up in the month you wish to travel, it's because the tour does not depart during that time due to operational or seasonal reasons.

Where will my tour start and finish?

The majority of Contiki tours start at the Contiki Hotel where you will spend your first night on tour. This information will be on your Contiki tour documents which will be issued to you 21 days prior to departure.

When will I get my Contiki documents?

Global Journeys will send your documents 21 days prior to your departure from Australia. Bookings made less than 21 days prior will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Can I book and pay for my Optional Activities now or on tour?

All Optional Activities are booked and paid for on tour with your Tour Manager. Usually on the first day you'll have a chance to discuss what's available and then, when it comes time to book, your Tour Manager will collect a cash payment for the activities.

How much free time will I have?

Contiki schedules plenty of free time during your trip so that you can also explore on your own. If you're concerned about having too much free time, Contiki offers fabulous optional activities. Also if at any time you feel like even more 'you' time, just have a chat with your tour manager about meeting up with everyone later. You can tailor your trip how you like; it's YOUR holiday!

Do I need a passport and travel visas?

You will need a valid passport. Obtaining correct visas is your own responsibility. Not having correct visas could mean you missing out on part or all of your trip. Please refer to the Visa section on our website - which should be used as a guide only. Then, double check with the individual Embassies before you depart, remembering that visa requirements can change at short notice. For most of the countries where visas are required, it is NOT possible to obtain the visa whilst on the trip and some visas take 3-4 weeks to obtain.

Does the price shown include flights?

Contiki Holidays are inclusive of all transport once the tour begins. On tour, all coaches, trains, ferries, tuk tuks, bicycles, internal flights, whatever, are included in the cost of your tour. Everything you need to get around from the first to last day of tour. However, flights to and from your home city are NOT included. Global Journeys can also organise your flights if you wish, & we also recommend booking with your favourite airline online.

What's the weather going to be like?

Weather is tricky as everywhere is different and it's always changing. Luckily, Global Journeys provide temperature, and rainfall averages on every itinerary webpage. Look to the right of this page!

Are prices based on double occupancy?

Most prices are based on double occupancy, unless otherwise specified. For example, Most Concept tour prices are based on quad share with twin room bookings on a request basis incurring a surcharge. Some tours offer single occupancy for an additional cost, or triple– or quad–share for a reduced price.

When is the best time to travel?

Contiki operates tours year-round, however some months are better for group travel than others. The chart below indicates “peak” months when travel can be more expensive and hotel availability may be more difficult to accommodate large groups. “Best time” to travel refers to when we suggest organizing your group travel for better availability, prices and less crowds.

  Peak Time Best Time
America & Canada May - Sep Mar - Apr; Sep - Oct
Europe Jun - Aug Apr - May & Sep - Nov

 

Pre Departure Information

Contiki operate pre departure meetings which are a great opportunity for you to meet your Tour Manager and your fellow travellers, and also saves a lot of time the next morning.

When and where?
Pre departure meetings in the US are held either the evening before your tour or on the morning of departure at the departure hotels. The time and location of your pre departure meeting will depend on the city you are beginning your tour in.

Anaheim
The pre departure meeting for tours departing from LA will be at the Best Western Stovalls Inn at Anaheim, just across the road from Disneyland. The meetings take place here at 7pm the night before the tour starts. If you don't make the pre departure meeting you should be at the Best Western Stovalls Inn at Anaheim between 6:30 and 7am the morning of departure for a 7:45am departure at the very latest.

People travelling on non-US passports on tours travelling south to San Diego and Tijuana in Mexico should check the entry requirements into Mexico, have their I-94 forms (filled out at US Customs upon your first entry to the US) and US entry documents on them for the next day of adventure into Mexico.

New York
Tours departing New York have a pre departure meeting in the departure hotel at 7pm the evening before departure. Check the information sheet at the hotel reception as to the exact location of your meeting. If you don't make the pre departure meeting you should be at your departure hotel between 6:30 and 7am the morning of departure for a 7:45am departure at the very latest. Check your Contiki Travel Documents for your departure hotel.

Other Cities
If you tour starts in another city (New Orleans, Orlando, Chicago for example) usually meet up at 7am on the morning of departure. Exact information will be made available in your Contiki Travel Documents closer to the time of departure.

What to Bring to your Pre Departure Meeting

- Your Passport
- Your Contiki Travel Doc's & Vouchers
- Next of Kin Emergency Contact Information
- US immigration documents including the I-94 form (obtained at US Customs and usually stapled into your passport) for Non-US passport holders

 

Terms & Conditions:

Yep, all the boring small print! We still recommend you read it all though, as no one likes surprises. Click here to read them now - they will open in a new window, or print them off to read over later with a cup of coffee!

 

Georgie Walpole

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Georgie Walpole
Tour Consultant
Email: georgie@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: International Coach Touring & River Cruising
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