Connections by Abercrombie & Kent Offer Legendary Insider Access Around the Globe

A&K expands the offering in 2016, with a selection of new destinations, dedicated Family departures and unique European River Cruise Journeys.

For 2016, Abercrombie & Kent is introducing new Connections programs in Italy and Cuba, in addition to three new Family Journeys in Central Europe, Italy, Scotland and Ireland, and four new themed European River Cruise Journeys, with a focus on Food & Wine, Art & Architecture and Christmas Markets.

“With the value offered in Connections by Abercrombie & Kent, so many more travellers are able to connect with the world's greatest destinations,” explains A&K President Phil Otterson.“Our goal is for guests to return home feeling as though they made a unique, authentic connection to each place they visit.”

Every itinerary is handcrafted by A&K experts on the ground who know each site intimately and can plan accordingly to create the optimal experience. For example, by including three full nights in Siem Reap, guests have enough time to explore the entire complex at a leisurely pace with time to relax at the hotel at mid-day when heat and humidity are at their highest – and still experience an unforgettable visit at sunrise. A&K understands that inspiring travel is not about checking items off a list – it's about combining can't-miss sightseeing with the kind of unique local encounters not found in a guidebook, such as a camelback safari to an Indian desert mobile camp and dinner with the grandson of a Maharaja, or a visit to the Mercato Centrale in Florence, where guests participate in a private cooking lesson with a local chef.

NEW CONNECTIONS JOURNEYS FOR 2016

Authentic, surprising and backed by peerless local expertise, Connections by Abercrombie & Kent offers guest-favorites in Asia, India, Australia & New Zealand, East and South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Canada, Peru and across Europe, in addition to the following new journeys for 2016:

NEW: Italy: Rome & the North – Discover the best of Rome with a local guide, including the Colosseum and Campo de Fiori, and then explore Florence and its Uffizi Gallery with a specialist art guide. Relax among the breathtaking beauty of Cinque Terre. Tour a family-owned balsamic vinegar factory, sampling this regional favorite before sitting down to a farmhouse lunch, then continue on to Verona, setting for Romeo and Juliet. Enjoy special access to an atelier (workshop) that crafts Venice's legendary carnival masks and visit the market district around the Rialto Bridge. 11 days from $6,395

NEW: Cuba: Across the Island: People to People – Explore the length of the isle, from Holguin, the coastal city where Christopher Columbus landed, to Santiago de Cuba at the southern tip, ending in Havana on this interactive experience aimed at fostering a meaningful connection with the Cuban people.13 days from $7,995

A&K's Connections Family Journeys are designed to satisfy adventurers of all ages, with engaging local guides, fun and enriching activities, and child-friendly hotels – all at a family-friendly price, featuring a $400 per-child savings. Every day includes at least one Family Discovery, a chance for kids to connect to their destination by interacting directly with nature, culture and local kids. Departures coincide with school holidays.

European River Cruise Journeys combine unforgettable destinations with the convenience and excellent value of Connections travel. A&K has elevated the popular river cruise with private sightseeing excursions accompanied by a dedicated Resident Tour Director, small groups of just 24 guests, and city visits before and after cruising to explore vital cultural hubs such as Amsterdam and Paris, in addition to Connections-Exclusive Excursion, experiences only available to A&K guests.

Connections Journeys aren't only about “seeing the sights,” they're about connecting to the destination in authentic and unexpected ways. Market Connections introduce guests to the crafts and produce markets where locals gather to shop, barter and socialize. Neighborhood Connections feature walking tours that immerse travellers in a specific locale, while Musical Connections feature private performances with local musicians who also happen to be expert ambassadors for their musical culture and heritage. Sample the local flavors on a Culinary Connection, or discover traditional handicrafts with an Artisan Connection. Lastly, visits to sacred places and meetings with devout individuals offer the opportunity for a moving Spiritual Connection.

Discover a world of inspiring travel made possible only with Abercrombie & Kent's Connections Worldwide Group Journeys. Call 800.554.7094 to speak with an A&K Travel Consultant, go to www.abercrombiekent.com , or contact your travel professional to learn more.

Visit website: www.abercrombiekent.com