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travel & activity information • may 2—6, 2012<br />
<strong>Plug</strong> <strong>into</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>power</strong> <strong>of</strong> ...<br />
Partnership<br />
Penha Longa Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Sintra-LinhÓ , Portugal
Congratulations<br />
on your 2011 results!<br />
We are honored to have you as a guest<br />
at our upcoming President’s Club Conference.<br />
<strong>The</strong> following online material is designed to<br />
provide you with <strong>the</strong> information you need to<br />
plan your travel to Sintra-Linhó, Portugal.<br />
Register for this event at http://pctrip.hanover.com.<br />
Your airline arrangements and Travel Registration<br />
Form should be completed no later than<br />
Friday, March 2, 2012.<br />
When completing your registration, be sure<br />
to note any special travel arrangements<br />
(e.g., medical considerations such as wheelchair<br />
accessibility, diabetic meals, pregnancy, etc.)<br />
Once you have completed <strong>the</strong> travel registration<br />
information, our Carlson Wagonlit travel<br />
consultant will call you within 48 hours to verify<br />
your air travel requirements. An email will <strong>the</strong>n<br />
be sent with your itinerary/electronic ticket.
3<br />
About Sintra-Linhó<br />
Get Ready For A Fantastic Trip!<br />
Most travelers to Portugal place Lisbon<br />
high on <strong>the</strong>ir list <strong>of</strong> must-visit cities. However,<br />
<strong>the</strong> real gem <strong>of</strong> Portugal, may actually lie<br />
40 minutes outside <strong>of</strong> Lisbon, in <strong>the</strong> town<br />
<strong>of</strong> Sintra.<br />
http://www.travel-in-portugal.com/Sintra<br />
For centuries, Sintra has been <strong>the</strong> summer<br />
and vacation destination <strong>of</strong> Portugal’s<br />
monarchs — and for good reason. Nestled<br />
between <strong>the</strong> Sintra Mountains and <strong>the</strong><br />
Atlantic Coast, this colorful city (a UNESCO<br />
World Heritage site) boasts a charming<br />
downtown and centuries <strong>of</strong> rich culture and<br />
history, all set in a lush, natural setting. (This<br />
jewel <strong>of</strong> a region is home to Penha Longa<br />
Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort).<br />
<strong>The</strong> charm <strong>of</strong> this world-class destination is<br />
reflected in <strong>the</strong> narrow, medieval streets lined<br />
with shops selling local artisan specialties,<br />
and in <strong>the</strong> wide range <strong>of</strong> cafés and restaurants<br />
featuring local delicacies. In <strong>the</strong> center <strong>of</strong><br />
Sintra sits <strong>the</strong> National Palace, which<br />
functioned as a royal palace until <strong>the</strong> early<br />
1900s. <strong>The</strong> palaces two enormous towers<br />
have become a significant landmark in Sintra.<br />
Sitting high upon a hill behind <strong>the</strong> Vila de<br />
Sintra, sits Palácio da Pena, an extravagant,<br />
yet relatively modern building, erected in<br />
<strong>the</strong> 19th century by <strong>the</strong> German husband <strong>of</strong><br />
Queen Maria II. A truly remarkable mixture<br />
<strong>of</strong> Renaissance, Baroque, Moorish, Gothic<br />
and Manueline styles adorn this enormous<br />
structure, which occupies <strong>the</strong> site <strong>of</strong> a former<br />
16th century Hieronymite Monastery.<br />
Penha Longa welcomes its visitors to “walk<br />
in <strong>the</strong> footsteps <strong>of</strong> royalty” quite literally so.<br />
Situated on a national nature reserve just<br />
minutes from trendy Cascais, romantic Sintra<br />
and historic Lisbon, Penha Longa is, at once,<br />
a rare blend <strong>of</strong> au<strong>the</strong>ntic European charm and<br />
modern accessibility. Penha Longa, meaning<br />
“Long Rock,” is long on history and natural<br />
beauty. Friar Vasco Martins chose to build<br />
his monastery here in 1355, and <strong>the</strong> palace<br />
at Penha Longa became a favorite retreat<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Portuguese royal family in <strong>the</strong> 16th
and 17th Centuries. During this period many<br />
beautiful adornments were erected, some <strong>of</strong><br />
which remain to this day, including fountains,<br />
gardens, and water mills. Today, Penha Longa<br />
stands as a timeless link to five centuries <strong>of</strong><br />
grand Portuguese estate luxury. Its tranquility,<br />
natural beauty and plethora <strong>of</strong> outdoor<br />
activities make this one <strong>of</strong> Europe’s most<br />
attractive and exclusive retreats.<br />
Travel<br />
Identification Requirements<br />
4<br />
All persons traveling to Portugal will be required<br />
to present a valid passport. Information<br />
regarding fees, processing times and<br />
acceptance facilities can be found at <strong>the</strong><br />
following website: www.travel.state.gov<br />
Please note: When completing your electronic<br />
registration form, you must list First, Middle,<br />
and Last Name EXACTLY as it appears on<br />
your passport. This applies to guests as well.
5<br />
Airline Information<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong> is pleased to have <strong>the</strong> opportunity<br />
to handle your airline reservations. After you<br />
complete your on-line Travel Registration<br />
Form, we will secure your travel arrangements.<br />
Please note <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
• Travel itineraries will be reviewed with<br />
you prior to final ticketing.<br />
• All flights are based on President’s Club<br />
program fare and guidelines.<br />
• Once we receive your form, we will do<br />
our best to accommodate your air requests.<br />
Please note that our airline carriers are<br />
pre-selected with non-refundable and<br />
non-transferrable tickets in coach class,<br />
and may include travel on a connecting<br />
flight. Once your flight is arranged, any<br />
changes made by you will be considered<br />
a personal expense.<br />
• If you are part <strong>of</strong> frequent flyer program,<br />
and would like to request an upgrade,<br />
please fax a copy <strong>of</strong> your certificates (front<br />
and back) to Carlson Wagonlit Travel at<br />
508-855-4780, so we can expedite your<br />
request. For mileage credit, list your name<br />
on <strong>the</strong> on-line Travel Registration Form<br />
exactly as it appears on your frequent<br />
flyer membership.<br />
• Remember to pick up your boarding passes<br />
at ticket counters or kiosks prior to going<br />
through security. You may also be able to<br />
print your boarding pass online, depending<br />
on your airlines’ website.<br />
• Electronic tickets will be issued for all travelers.<br />
• Be sure to have your valid picture ID<br />
(passport) and a copy <strong>of</strong> your itinerary<br />
at check-in.<br />
Ground Transportation to/from<br />
Penha Longa Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort<br />
We are pleased to provide you with<br />
transportation from Lisbon International<br />
Airport to <strong>the</strong> Penha Longa Hotel, Spa & Golf<br />
Resort on Tuesday, May 1 or Wednesday,<br />
May 2. <strong>The</strong> hotel is located approximately<br />
45 minutes from <strong>the</strong> airport. Upon your arrival,<br />
a uniformed representative will be located in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Meet and Greet Area, immediately outside<br />
<strong>of</strong> Baggage Claim, with signage for “<strong>The</strong><br />
<strong>Hanover</strong> <strong>Insurance</strong> Group President’s Club.”<br />
On Sunday, May 6, transportation will be<br />
provided from <strong>the</strong> hotel back to <strong>the</strong> airport.<br />
Specific information regarding departures<br />
will be provided to you on-site.<br />
If you are planning to travel outside <strong>the</strong><br />
meeting dates, we recommend taxi travel as<br />
<strong>the</strong> most convenient and cost-effective way<br />
to travel to/from <strong>the</strong> airport. Taxis regulated<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Tourism Board are easily accessible<br />
at <strong>the</strong> airport, just steps away from <strong>the</strong> main<br />
exit. <strong>The</strong> average rate from Airport to Penha<br />
Longa (one way) is 40,00 Euros, subject to<br />
change. An additional surcharge may apply<br />
in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> excess luggage.<br />
Should you prefer to rent a vehicle while<br />
in Portugal, <strong>the</strong> Carlson Wagonlit Travel<br />
Counselor will be happy to assist you with<br />
those arrangements. Note: <strong>The</strong> cost <strong>of</strong><br />
a rental car is considered a personal expense.
6<br />
Helpful Reminders<br />
We’re Committed to Making Your Stay<br />
a Memorable One!<br />
As an honored guest <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong>, we will<br />
arrange your hotel accommodation, airfare,<br />
activities, designated meals, baggage handling,<br />
applicable taxes and ground transportation<br />
as specified by your on-line Travel Registration<br />
Form. Prior to completing your form, please<br />
review <strong>the</strong> following helpful information:<br />
Hospitality Area<br />
During your stay, Travel Directors from<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong> will be available at <strong>the</strong> hospitality<br />
desk located in <strong>the</strong> Mezzanine D. Filipa. At<br />
this location, Travel Directors will post updated<br />
information such as schedules, bulletins and<br />
activity information. You may stop by to have<br />
a Director help arrange your personal plans,<br />
provide answers to your travel questions, and<br />
confirm your daily schedule.<br />
Hospitality Area — Hours <strong>of</strong> Operation<br />
WEDNESDAY, MAY 2<br />
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.<br />
THURSDAY, MAY 3<br />
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.<br />
FRIDAY, MAY 4<br />
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.<br />
SATURDAY, MAY 5<br />
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.<br />
SUNDAY, MAY 6<br />
7 a.m. – 2 p.m.<br />
Name Badges<br />
We encourage you to wear your name badges<br />
to all group activities. This badge identifies<br />
you as a guest <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong>.<br />
Name Badge Color Key<br />
President’s Club Member<br />
guest<br />
<strong>the</strong> hanover associate
Gratuities<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong> will cover gratuities for events<br />
sponsored throughout this program. Please<br />
visit Tripadvisor to provide you with information<br />
regarding standard tipping and etiquette<br />
suggestions while traveling in Portugal.<br />
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g189100-<br />
s606/Portugal:Tipping.And.Etiquette.html<br />
7<br />
Tax Reporting<br />
As a reminder, IRS regulations require that<br />
certain expenses for attendees and guests at<br />
conferences are reported as taxable income.<br />
For this conference, expenses that will be<br />
reported as taxable income will be <strong>the</strong> value<br />
<strong>of</strong> your guest’s airfare and optional activities<br />
for you and your guest.<br />
Personal Expenses<br />
You may elect additional services not<br />
<strong>of</strong>fered as part <strong>of</strong> this program. As a result,<br />
<strong>the</strong>se charges will be considered a personal<br />
expense. Examples <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se services include<br />
valet and laundry service, fitness center<br />
service, personal bar bills and personal calls.<br />
For your convenience, <strong>The</strong> Penha Longa<br />
Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort accepts all major<br />
credit cards including American Express,<br />
Diners Club, Mastercard and Visa. Please<br />
note that <strong>the</strong> hotel does not accept<br />
personal checks.<br />
Medical Information/Emergencies<br />
In <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> an emergency, dial 112 or<br />
follow emergency dialing instructions in your<br />
guestroom. Please advise <strong>the</strong> Hospitality<br />
Staff <strong>of</strong> any medical treatment that you<br />
may receive.<br />
Children<br />
Please note that this program has not been<br />
designed for children. In <strong>the</strong> event that a child<br />
is traveling with you to Portugal, we ask that<br />
you make alternate arrangements for<br />
meal functions, air/ground expenses and<br />
activities. In addition, based on <strong>the</strong> limited<br />
amount <strong>of</strong> guest rooms, we may not be<br />
able to confirm availability <strong>of</strong> an additional<br />
room to accommodate children. Maximum<br />
occupancy <strong>of</strong> each guest room is restricted<br />
to four people. Thank you for your<br />
cooperation and understanding.<br />
Valuables<br />
Safe deposit boxes are located at <strong>the</strong> front<br />
desk <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hotel. Please consider using <strong>the</strong>se<br />
for such valuables as jewelry, excess cash<br />
and traveler’s checks. In-room safes are also<br />
available in each guest room.
Dress Code<br />
Please refer to <strong>the</strong> following guidelines for<br />
dress code during this program:<br />
daytime events<br />
business<br />
program<br />
optional<br />
activities<br />
We recommend business<br />
casual attire for <strong>the</strong><br />
business program portion<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> conference<br />
Appropriate attire<br />
based on <strong>the</strong> chosen<br />
activity. Please refer to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Optional Activities<br />
section for details.<br />
A note regarding footwear: Many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
historical sites you may visit will have<br />
cobblestone or uneven streets. With this in<br />
mind, we recommend that ladies wear flat<br />
or wedge shoes for your comfort and safety.<br />
If you have additional questions<br />
regarding dress code, please consult with<br />
our Travel Directors.<br />
climate<br />
For statistical wea<strong>the</strong>r averages, please<br />
visit TripAdvisor.<br />
http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Travel-g189164-s208/<br />
Sintra:Portugal:Wea<strong>the</strong>r.And.When.To.Go.html<br />
8<br />
evening events<br />
Wednesday, May 2<br />
Welcome<br />
Reception<br />
Ladies and gentlemen<br />
may consider wearing<br />
business casual attire with<br />
sweater or jacket.<br />
Thursday, May 3<br />
Group<br />
Dine-Around<br />
Ladies and gentlemen<br />
may consider wearing<br />
business casual attire with<br />
sweater or jacket.<br />
Friday, May 4<br />
Evening at<br />
Leisure<br />
Appropriate attire based<br />
on plans for evening.<br />
Saturday, May 5<br />
Final Night<br />
Event<br />
Gentlemen may consider<br />
wearing a sports jacket or<br />
tie. Ladies may consider<br />
a cocktail-type outfit.<br />
A wrap or light jacket is<br />
suggested for comfort at<br />
this <strong>of</strong>f-site venue.
9<br />
Time Zone<br />
<strong>The</strong> time zone in Portugal is <strong>the</strong> Greenwich<br />
Mean Time (GMT). Portugal does not<br />
recognize Daylight Savings Time. This is<br />
four hours ahead <strong>of</strong> Eastern Standard Time<br />
during <strong>the</strong> dates <strong>of</strong> our program.<br />
Currency<br />
Transactions in Portugal are conducted<br />
in Euros. A currency exchange service is<br />
available at <strong>the</strong> hotel’s front desk. Please<br />
remember to bring your passport to<br />
facilitate exchanges.<br />
http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert/?amount=<br />
l&from=usd&to=eur<br />
Electricity<br />
It is important to note that <strong>the</strong> <strong>power</strong><br />
supply in Portugal is quite different from<br />
that <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> USA and that <strong>the</strong> plugs and<br />
sockets used are different from those in<br />
<strong>the</strong> USA.<br />
While staying at Penha Longa Hotel, Spa & Golf<br />
Resort, <strong>the</strong> hotel will have a limited supply<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>power</strong> converters. <strong>The</strong>se <strong>power</strong> converters<br />
will generally handle such things as electric<br />
razors and laptop computers. Each guest<br />
room will also be equipped with a hair dryer<br />
and it is recommended that you use <strong>the</strong> one<br />
that is provided ra<strong>the</strong>r than bringing one<br />
from home, due to <strong>the</strong> difference in voltage<br />
(European voltage is 220V, whereas<br />
American voltage is 110V).<br />
If you are planning on bringing your<br />
laptop to Portugal, please check your<br />
<strong>power</strong> supply transformer pack. <strong>The</strong> label<br />
on <strong>the</strong> bottom <strong>of</strong> this pack should have<br />
an input range from 100-240V and 50-60Hz.<br />
This will allow you to use your device<br />
safely in Portugal. This would also apply<br />
to o<strong>the</strong>r electrical devices you may want<br />
to bring, such as iPod chargers, cell phone<br />
chargers, etc. We strongly recommend<br />
that you evaluate your own requirements<br />
and plan accordingly. Improper use<br />
may result in damage to your personal<br />
electronics, for which <strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong> or<br />
hotel is not responsible.
Activities<br />
You and your adult guest may each enjoy one<br />
activity per day (Thursday, Friday and Saturday),<br />
compliments <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong>. Our travel<br />
experts have made special arrangements to<br />
accommodate all interests — from a peaceful<br />
and rejuvenating tour, to golf on one <strong>of</strong><br />
Portugal’s most renowned and picturesque<br />
courses, to tours <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> surrounding area.<br />
Note: Due to <strong>the</strong> limited size <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Six Senses<br />
Spa at Penha Longa, we are unable to <strong>of</strong>fer<br />
spa as a sponsored activity. If you would like<br />
to confirm an individual appointment, please<br />
contact <strong>the</strong> spa directly at reservationspenhalonga-spa@sixsenses.com<br />
to request<br />
<strong>the</strong> desired service and preferred treatment<br />
time. A list <strong>of</strong> treatments may be found on<br />
<strong>the</strong> Six Senses Spa website. http://www.<br />
ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/PenhaLonga/Spa/<br />
Default.htm Please advise <strong>the</strong> spa representative<br />
that you will be attending <strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong> <strong>Insurance</strong><br />
Group President’s Club program.
<strong>The</strong> following optional activities will be<br />
<strong>of</strong>fered during your stay at Penha Longa:<br />
11<br />
Golf — Tournament Play<br />
Thursday, May 3<br />
Ranked within <strong>the</strong> top 30 courses in<br />
Continental Europe, <strong>The</strong> Atlantic Course<br />
designed by <strong>the</strong> famed Robert Trent Jones Jr.,<br />
is Sintra golf at its best.<br />
Featuring bold drives, courageous approaches<br />
and artful greens. <strong>The</strong> course is both an<br />
adrenaline rush and a soothing journey<br />
through one <strong>of</strong> Portugal’s most inspiring<br />
landscapes. <strong>The</strong> opening holes and <strong>the</strong> final<br />
flourish share a wooded valley in <strong>the</strong> shadow<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rocky mountains, while o<strong>the</strong>rs arch<br />
and plunge over scented hillsides. Exciting<br />
at every turn, this championship course is<br />
a master <strong>of</strong> variety and thrills. <strong>The</strong> Atlantic<br />
Course is an 18-hole, par 72, championship<br />
course <strong>of</strong> 6,879 yards, <strong>of</strong>fering a challenging<br />
course with breathtaking views over <strong>the</strong> ocean<br />
with Estoril and Cascais to <strong>the</strong> South and <strong>the</strong><br />
Sintra hills to <strong>the</strong> North. Penha Longa’s Atlantic<br />
golf course has played host to numerous<br />
competitions including <strong>the</strong> Portuguese Open.<br />
Confirmation <strong>of</strong> your participation will be sent<br />
prior to arrival, and pairings will be posted at<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong>’s Hospitality Desk.<br />
Club rentals are available on a limited basis.<br />
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/<br />
PenhaLonga/Golf/Default.htm<br />
Program:<br />
Shot gun tournament — 12:30 p.m.<br />
Scramble Format<br />
(boxed lunches will be served)<br />
Approximate conclusion<br />
<strong>of</strong> tournament —<br />
Award presentations<br />
5:00 p.m.
12<br />
Sailing Regatta<br />
Thursday, May 3 & Friday, May 4<br />
Portugal is a country where, even during<br />
winter, <strong>the</strong> sunny days are a constant!<br />
Lisbon has all <strong>the</strong> conditions for <strong>the</strong> practice<br />
<strong>of</strong> nautical sports. You will be introduced<br />
to <strong>the</strong> art <strong>of</strong> sailing by local Portuguese<br />
instructors. Our sailing adventure will finish<br />
with a friendly competition, and <strong>the</strong> winning<br />
team will receive a prize!<br />
Program:<br />
Depart hotel<br />
12:30 p.m.<br />
Discover <strong>the</strong> Discoveries<br />
Thursday, May 3<br />
After lunch at A Commenda, you will visit Belém,<br />
an area closely associated with <strong>the</strong> great Age <strong>of</strong><br />
Discovery. Today, Belém’s exquisite buildings<br />
and museums celebrate <strong>the</strong> feats <strong>of</strong> Portugal’s<br />
courageous mariners and ocean navigational<br />
skills in general. Your tour begins with a short<br />
walk to <strong>the</strong> riverside for a photostop at <strong>the</strong><br />
Belém Tower, a Manueline gem, set on <strong>the</strong> very<br />
edge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Tagus River; and <strong>the</strong> Monument<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Discoveries, a caravel with <strong>the</strong> figure <strong>of</strong><br />
Henry <strong>the</strong> Navigator on <strong>the</strong> prow. Our program<br />
also includes a visit to <strong>the</strong> imposing Jeronimos’<br />
Monastery, a 16th Century Portuguese<br />
adaptation <strong>of</strong> late Gothic architecture.<br />
Program:<br />
Leave <strong>the</strong> hotel<br />
12:00 p.m.<br />
Arrival at Belém<br />
12:35 p.m.<br />
Lunch at A Commenda 12:45 – 1:45 p.m.<br />
Arrival at Rio’s<br />
1:00 p.m.<br />
Discover <strong>the</strong> Discoveries<br />
2:00 – 4:50 p.m.<br />
Lunch at Rio’s<br />
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.<br />
Leave for hotel<br />
5:00 p.m.<br />
Short briefing and sailing<br />
regatta in Oeiras<br />
2:15 – 4:15 p.m.<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
5:35 p.m.<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
5:00 p.m.
plunging through mud and water, penetrating<br />
<strong>the</strong> dense vegetation <strong>of</strong> Sintra’s parks and<br />
reserves, or enjoying magnificent views from<br />
its hilltops. On this fun-filled trip, you will<br />
learn about Sintra’s convents and country<br />
villages on <strong>the</strong> outskirts, far from <strong>the</strong> business<br />
city. After a visit to <strong>the</strong> impressive 19th<br />
Century Pena Palace, your trip will finish with<br />
a magnificent view <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ocean at Cabo<br />
da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point.<br />
Program:<br />
Adventure in Sintra Mountains<br />
Depart hotel<br />
12:00 p.m.<br />
13<br />
Thursday, May 3 & Friday, May 4<br />
Guests will be picked up by Jeeps driven by<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional drivers and will set <strong>of</strong>f to discover<br />
<strong>the</strong> most hidden-away places <strong>the</strong> Sintra hills<br />
have to <strong>of</strong>fer. Lunch will be served in a small<br />
Arrival to Casa dos<br />
Penedos for lunch<br />
Off-road in Sintra<br />
Mountains, including visit<br />
to Pena Palace, and<br />
finishing in Cabo da Roca<br />
12:15 – 1:15 p.m.<br />
1:30 – 4:30 p.m.<br />
palace that combines romantic influences<br />
with modern architectural elements.<br />
Depart Cabo da Roca<br />
to hotel<br />
5:00 p.m.<br />
After lunch, in <strong>the</strong> hands <strong>of</strong> skilled drivers<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
5:30 p.m.<br />
and with <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> a road book, you will<br />
experience <strong>the</strong> thrills <strong>of</strong> “<strong>of</strong>f-road” driving,
Speeding to Lisbon Docks<br />
and Downtown Lisbon<br />
Thursday, May 3 & Friday, May 4<br />
Your trip will begin in Cascais with an exciting<br />
ride along <strong>the</strong> sea and <strong>the</strong> Tagus River.<br />
Cascais is a small, traditional fishing port, with<br />
a cosmopolitan atmosphere. As you walk <strong>the</strong><br />
pathways surrounding Cascais Bay, take note<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> contrast between <strong>the</strong> vivid colors <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
small fishing boats and <strong>the</strong> gleaming yachts<br />
and sail boats moored at <strong>the</strong> yacht club. Your<br />
trip will allow you to experience <strong>the</strong> coastline<br />
from a different perspective, passing by<br />
fortresses and some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> main monuments<br />
in Lisbon, including Jeronimos’ Monastery,<br />
Cristo Rei, Discoveries’ Monument, Belém<br />
Tower, among o<strong>the</strong>rs. <strong>The</strong> trip will conclude<br />
as your speed boat passes under <strong>the</strong> Tagus<br />
River Bridge. After lunch at Doca Peixe, we<br />
will head to Rossio, <strong>the</strong> very heart <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> city,<br />
to admire Black Horse Square, a bustling<br />
shopping area just beyond downtown Lisbon.<br />
14<br />
Program:<br />
Depart hotel<br />
Arrive at Cascais Marina<br />
Speedboat ride from<br />
Cascais to Lisbon Docks<br />
Lunch at Doca Peixe<br />
Transfer by bus to<br />
downtown Lisbon<br />
Historic tour in<br />
downtown Lisbon<br />
Leave from dowtown<br />
Lisbon to hotel<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
12:00 p.m.<br />
12:25 p.m.<br />
12:40 – 1:40 p.m.<br />
1:50 – 2:50 p.m.<br />
3:00 p.m.<br />
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.<br />
4:45 p.m.<br />
5:30 p.m.
15<br />
Unique & Ancient Lisbon<br />
Friday, May 4<br />
Journey by Lisbon’s most traditional<br />
mode <strong>of</strong> transportation, <strong>the</strong> Lisbon tram,<br />
in use since <strong>the</strong> 19th Century. Traveling in<br />
exclusive, chartered carriages, you will<br />
climb and descend through Lisbon’s hilly,<br />
narrow, winding streets, passing through<br />
some <strong>of</strong> its most ancient quarters. You will<br />
go to Alfama, passing by Estrela district with<br />
its basilica and <strong>the</strong> Portuguese parliament,<br />
as well as <strong>the</strong> rebuilt Lisbon downtown <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
18th Century. Ano<strong>the</strong>r principal landmark that<br />
you will visit is Saint George’s Castle, where<br />
from its ramparts high on a hilltop, you will<br />
enjoy one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best views over <strong>the</strong> city .<br />
Program:<br />
Depart hotel<br />
Arrive at restaurant<br />
in Oeiras<br />
Lunch at Praia Café<br />
Transfer to Estrela<br />
Square in Lisbon<br />
Arrive at Estrela Square<br />
Ride trams from<br />
Estrela to Alfama<br />
Tour Alfama with St.<br />
George’s Castle<br />
Leave for hotel<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
12:00 p.m.<br />
12:35 p.m.<br />
12:40 – 1:40 p.m.<br />
1:45 p.m.<br />
2:15 p.m.<br />
2:30 – 3 p.m.<br />
3:00 – 4:45 p.m.<br />
5:00 p.m.<br />
5:40 p.m.
Golf at Oitavos Dunes<br />
Program:<br />
Friday, May 4<br />
<strong>The</strong> Oitavos Dunes Golf Course is located in<br />
Cascais, bordered to <strong>the</strong> north by <strong>the</strong> Sintra<br />
hills, and to <strong>the</strong> south by <strong>the</strong> Atlantic Ocean.<br />
Arthur Hills, one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world’s most famous<br />
golf course designers, has preserved <strong>the</strong><br />
unique characteristics <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> land, creating<br />
a 6900 yard, par 71 golf course set among<br />
Depart hotel<br />
Arrive at Oitavos Dunes<br />
Golf Course<br />
Lunch at Verbasco<br />
Clubhouse<br />
Shotgun tournament<br />
Depart golf course<br />
for hotel<br />
12:00 p.m.<br />
12:25 p.m.<br />
12:30 – 1:20 p.m.<br />
1:30 p.m.<br />
5:30 p.m.<br />
16<br />
pine woods and reforested dunes. <strong>The</strong> course<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
6:00 p.m.<br />
features a driving range, two putting greens,<br />
chipping areas, a restaurant and a golf shop.<br />
Oitavos course is a frequent host <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> PGA<br />
Open — <strong>the</strong> Portuguese Golf Federation<br />
Championship — and has been recognized as<br />
one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> top 100 golf courses in <strong>the</strong> world,<br />
and one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best in mainland Europe<br />
by Golf Magazine. (Requested handicap<br />
maximum: Men 28; Ladies 36)<br />
http://www.oitavosdunes.com
17<br />
Shuttle to Sintra<br />
Thursday, May 3 & Friday, May 4<br />
A beautiful town, at <strong>the</strong> foot <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mountain<br />
range <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> same name, Sintra’s unique<br />
characteristics have led UNESCO to classify it<br />
as a World Heritage site, for its natural riches,<br />
as well as <strong>the</strong> historic buildings in <strong>the</strong> town<br />
and mountains. Much appreciated by kings<br />
and nobles as a country resort, and praised<br />
by writers and poets (Lord Byron called it<br />
“glorious Eden”), Sintra has many beautiful<br />
cottages and manor houses, as well as historical<br />
palaces, such as <strong>the</strong> Pena Palace, built in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Romantic period on one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mountain<br />
peaks; <strong>the</strong> Palace <strong>of</strong> Seteais, built in <strong>the</strong><br />
18th Century, now converted <strong>into</strong> an elegant<br />
hotel; and <strong>the</strong> Palace <strong>of</strong> Monserrate, famous<br />
for its beautiful gardens with <strong>the</strong>ir exotic<br />
species that are unique in <strong>the</strong> country. Sintra’s<br />
confectionery deserves a special mention,<br />
particularly <strong>the</strong> travesseiros (puff pastries<br />
stuffed with a sweet eggy mixture) and <strong>the</strong><br />
famous cheese-cakes, which, according to<br />
ancient documents, date back to <strong>the</strong> 12th<br />
Century, and were <strong>of</strong>fered as part <strong>of</strong> rent<br />
payments. Near Sintra are <strong>the</strong> beaches (das<br />
Maças, Praia Grande, Praia da Adraga), Cabo<br />
da Roca (<strong>the</strong> westernmost point <strong>of</strong> mainland<br />
Europe), Colares — also a famous wine-growing<br />
region — and <strong>the</strong> picturesque village <strong>of</strong><br />
Azenhas do Mar, set high on a cliff.<br />
Shuttle Departure/Arrival Times:<br />
Depart hotel at 12:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.<br />
Return to hotel at 3:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m.<br />
For more details please contact: Hospitality desk.
Ancient and Modern Lisbon<br />
Saturday, May 5<br />
18<br />
Lisbon is full <strong>of</strong> fascinating contrasts, from<br />
<strong>the</strong> city’s most ancient quarters, with its hilly,<br />
narrow winding streets, to <strong>the</strong> ultra-modern<br />
waterfront, completely rebuilt for <strong>the</strong> EXPO<br />
’98 World Exposition and dedicated to <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>me, “<strong>The</strong> Oceans: A Heritage to <strong>the</strong> Future.”<br />
Program:<br />
Depart hotel<br />
Arrival at Estrela square<br />
Traditional trams from<br />
Estrela to Alfama<br />
Tour Alfama, with visit to<br />
St. George’s Castle<br />
Lunch in Casa do Leão<br />
Transfer to Expo’98<br />
Tour Expo’98, with visit<br />
to Oceanarium and cable<br />
car ride<br />
Depart for hotel<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
9:00 a.m.<br />
9:40 a.m.<br />
9:45 – 10:15 a.m.<br />
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.<br />
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.<br />
1:45 p.m.<br />
2:15 – 4:30 p.m.<br />
4:40 p.m.<br />
5:30 p.m.
19<br />
<strong>The</strong> Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Lisbon Coast<br />
and Its Products<br />
Saturday, May 5<br />
This program will start at <strong>the</strong> hotel and will<br />
head to <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>rn part <strong>of</strong> Lisbon, where<br />
<strong>the</strong> first stop will be at <strong>the</strong> national monument<br />
statue Cristo Rei (Christ <strong>the</strong> King), a smaller<br />
replica <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> statue, Christ <strong>the</strong> Redeemer,<br />
located in Rio de Janeiro. <strong>The</strong> Cristo Rei<br />
monument is located on <strong>the</strong> left-bank <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Tagus River, with a panoramic view <strong>of</strong> Lisbon<br />
on <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r bank. From this location, you can<br />
see <strong>the</strong> estuary, <strong>the</strong> 25 de Abril Bridge, and<br />
several <strong>of</strong> Lisbon’s historical monuments, such<br />
as <strong>the</strong> Belém Tower, <strong>the</strong> Valley <strong>of</strong> Alcântara,<br />
<strong>the</strong> St. George’s Castle, and <strong>the</strong> Vasco da<br />
Gama Bridge. From <strong>the</strong> terrace you can see<br />
<strong>the</strong> Arrabida Mountains and <strong>the</strong> Palmela<br />
Castle; and, on a clear day, you can still see<br />
<strong>the</strong> Sintra Mountains and <strong>the</strong> zone <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Sanctuary Cabo Espichel in Sesimbra. Next,<br />
you will visit <strong>the</strong> Jose Maria da Fonseca Estate<br />
Museum and <strong>the</strong> cellars. This 300-year old<br />
estate is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> oldest wine companies in<br />
Portugal, where some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> country’s top<br />
red wines mature in giant oak casks.<br />
Program:<br />
Depart hotel<br />
Stop at Cristo Rei<br />
Arrive at Jose Maria<br />
da Fonseca Wine Estate<br />
Visit and wine tasting<br />
Lunch at <strong>the</strong> estate<br />
Depart for hotel<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
9:30 a.m.<br />
10:15 – 10:45 a.m.<br />
11:30 a.m.<br />
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.<br />
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.<br />
2:30 p.m.<br />
4:00 p.m.
20<br />
Special Transfer to Lisbon<br />
Saturday, May 5<br />
This special transfer begins in Cascais, with<br />
an exciting ride along <strong>the</strong> sea and Tagus River.<br />
You will see <strong>the</strong> coastline from a different<br />
perspective and pass by several fortresses<br />
and some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> main monuments in Lisbon.<br />
Belém, an area closely associated with <strong>the</strong><br />
Age <strong>of</strong> Discovery, has <strong>the</strong> feel <strong>of</strong> an old,<br />
traditional seaside town. Lunch will be at<br />
A Commenda restaurant, with its lovely open<br />
terrace that overlooks local monuments and<br />
<strong>the</strong> river. In <strong>the</strong> afternoon you will head to<br />
Rossio to stroll its busy streets, getting to<br />
know <strong>the</strong> architecture and commerce <strong>of</strong> this<br />
area, including <strong>the</strong> traditional pastry shops<br />
and famous statues.<br />
Program:<br />
Depart hotel<br />
9:00 a.m.<br />
Arrive at Cascais’ Marina 9:25 a.m.<br />
Speedboat ride from<br />
Cascais to Belém Docks<br />
Tour in Belém<br />
Lunch at A Commenda<br />
Transfer by bus to<br />
downtown Lisbon<br />
9:45 – 10:45 a.m.<br />
10:50 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.<br />
1:45 – 2:45 p.m.<br />
3:00 p.m.<br />
Historic tour in<br />
downtown Lisbon<br />
Depart dowtown<br />
Lisbon to hotel<br />
Arrive at hotel<br />
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.<br />
4:45 p.m.<br />
5:30 p.m.
21<br />
About Lisbon — Become Your<br />
Own Explorer (Lisbon Shuttle)<br />
Saturday, May 5<br />
<strong>The</strong> maritime Voyages <strong>of</strong> Discovery turned<br />
Lisbon <strong>into</strong> one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world’s great ports and<br />
<strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong> an empire that stretched from<br />
Brazil in <strong>the</strong> west to India in <strong>the</strong> east. Great<br />
monuments on <strong>the</strong> banks <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> river testify<br />
to that history. After <strong>the</strong> earthquake <strong>of</strong> 1755,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Baixa Pombalina downtown was rebuilt in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Classical style, while many <strong>of</strong> its adjoining<br />
medieval neighborhoods survived and are<br />
now home to an amazing array <strong>of</strong> stores,<br />
restaurants and cafés. Whe<strong>the</strong>r you tour <strong>the</strong><br />
city on foot, by tram, by boat, walking <strong>the</strong><br />
banks <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Tagus, or even on <strong>the</strong> metro, you<br />
will revel in <strong>the</strong> rich, cultural diversity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Portuguese capital <strong>of</strong> Lisbon.<br />
Shuttle Departure/Arrival Times:<br />
Depart hotel at 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m.<br />
Return to hotel at 1:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.<br />
For more details please contact:<br />
Hospitality desk
Our Promise to You<br />
We are committed to making your trip to Sintra-Linhó, Portugal a trip to remember!<br />
If <strong>the</strong>re is anything we can do to make your travel as comfortable as possible,<br />
please contact Michael Burke at mburke@hanover.com or 508-855-2344, or<br />
Nancy Farmer at nfarmer@hanover.com or 508-855-2162.<br />
We look forward to seeing you in Sintra and wish you safe travels.
www.hanover.com<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Hanover</strong> <strong>Insurance</strong> Company<br />
440 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01653<br />
Citizens <strong>Insurance</strong> Company <strong>of</strong> America<br />
645 West Grand River Avenue, Howell, MI 48843<br />
www.hanover.com<br />
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