Coming in the Spring - April 25 through May 4, 2008 - is our first trip that will visit two countries, Germany and Italy, as we follow Martin Luther's footsteps. The group will meet in Frankfurt after overnight flights from the US and travel by private coach to Erfurt. We will be based here in the capital city of Thuringia (often called the "Thuringian Rome") for five nights while we visit cities associated with Martin Luther.

Our day trips include visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites in Wittenberg and Eisleben as well as the cities of Eisenach, Worms, and Mainz. While in Germany, we will learn about Luther's role in the Protestant Reformation, the art and architecture of renaissance and medieval Germany, how church and state were intertwined - and we'll listen to some wonderful music composed by local musicians, including J.S. Bach.

Our homes as we wander the Luther trail will be comfortable hotel accommodations in the heart of Erfurt's old town and within walking distance of the banks of the mighty Rhine in Mainz. We will dine in atmospheric restaurants on local specialties and have the opportunity to sample wines and beers not available elsewhere - be sure to try the delicious bratwurst. And do treat yourself to a glass of refreshing Ebbelwoi, a wine made from apples.

Our hotel in Rome is conveniently located and public transportation is nearby. As in Germany, all rooms are ensuite, clean and comfortable. We will visit several churches to see the contrasts between pre-Reformation and Counter Reformation architecture and decoration. We'll learn a bit about how and why art and music changed as well. There will be ample free time to visit your own special places; the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. And then there is the food; don't miss the abbacchio alla scottadito- tiny grilled lamb chops eaten with the fingers, or the crostata di ricotta- similar to cheesecake with ricotta, Marsala wine, cinnamon, and chocolate bits. Italian coffee, in any of its incarnations, is always a good choice.

While breakfast is included each day, lunches and most dinners are not. We have found that our travelers prefer a short break for lunch or a picnic to a long, leisurely meal at mid-day and enjoy discovering special restaurants in the evening. We are happy to provide suggestions, recommendations and directions for your dining pleasure.

Included in this two-country odyssey are:

• Five nights accommodation in Erfurt, Germany
• One night accommodation in Mainz, Germany
• Three nights accommodation in Rome, Italy
• Transportation by private coach from Frankfurt to Erfurt and from Erfurt to Mainz as well as for all day trips in Germany
• Group admission to Luther's birth and death house museums, Eisleben
• Group admission to Churches of Sts. Peter and Paul, St. Andrew and St. Anne, Eisleben
• Group admission to Luther house and Wartburg Castle, Eisenach
• Group admission to Castle Church, Church of St. Mary and organ concert, Wittenberg
• Private group walking tour, Erfurt
• Group admission to Gutenberg Museum, Mainz
• Group dinners as noted (one in Erfurt, one in Mainz, one in Rome)
• Professional services of Pauses, Inc. Directors and staff who accompany the group

Click here for the complete itinerary.

This tour is land only and does not include airfare - please ask about flight options between Germany and Italy - personal expenses such as, but not limited to: insurance, beverages, telephone calls, internet charges, tips and gratuities, personal expenses and purchases, additional fees, charges, and admissions.

The price for this trip through Germany and Rome is $1900 per person, based on double occupancy. Single occupancy may be available with an additional supplement; please enquire at the time of your booking. We are happy to try to match single travelers of the same gender with one another to avoid the single supplement but cannot guarantee that such a match can be made.

Space may be reserved by registering with Pauses, Inc. and making a deposit of 50% at time of booking. Final payment is due 45 days prior to commencement of tour. Please be sure to read the Pauses, Inc. cancellation policies.

Click here to access the registration form.