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Introduction

Hot and happening! That’s what they call America’s Capital Region, which has always been rich in history and the American experience and now is even more interesting with cutting edge culture, wild and wonderful landscapes, fabulous food and wine trails. Built more than two centuries ago as the new capital of the United States, Washington, DC is one of the youngest and most powerful capital cities on the globe. It is peppered with impressive and moving monuments and memorials, broad tree-lined avenues that are more like Paris than a modern American city and more. Even if you’ve visited before, new monuments are always being added and many museums have recently expanded.

Moving on to Maryland, you’ll appreciate the laid back culture of Maryland’s Eastern Shore after bustling Washington. Some places haven’t changed much since any of the six Baron Baltimore’s arrived. The vast plantations that blanket the area with lush crops surrounding grand houses are as southern as anything you’ll find in Virginia. On the shore, the maritime traditions of Maryland are still evident, although many a quaint old village has been gentrified by weekend pleasure boaters. Baltimore is full of character and enjoyably unpretentious. Get rowdy there and no one will mind.

And, let’s not forget Virginia. The state produced many of early America’s great leaders and ultimately delivered eight Presidents to the nation. Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, James Madison and James Monroe all hailed from here. You can meet their present day contemporaries at Williamsburg where you can find yourself immersed in conversation with any of them, discussing the major issues of the day. Contrast that to the great beaches in Virginia Beach and the very lovely Skyline Drive and all together you have the makings of a rich and rewarding holiday.

Go hip and historic on a Captial Region short break

Outdoor adventure, historical interaction, theme parks, family fun and beaches are all but a short non-stop flight away in America’s Capital Region. Their east coast location makes Virginia, DC and Maryland ideal for a short break or long weekend. Fill your visit with anything from fabulous shopping deals to gorgeous beaches, not to mention world class spas and one of the most famous cities in the world! Call today for a tailored short break on 0845 263 7100 or if you would prefer to email an enquiry.

Itinerary summary Washington, DC 2 nights Omni Shoreham Hotel Baltimore, MD 1 night Sheraton Inner Harbor Annapolis, MD 1 night Historic Inns of Annapolis Maryland’s Eastern Shore 2 nights Tidewater Inn Virginia Beach 2 nights Hilton Oceanfront Williamsburg, VA 1 night Colonial Williamsburg Houses Richmond, VA 1 night Omni Richmond Hotel Charlottesville, VA 2 nights Omni Charlottesville Hotel Blue Ridge Parkway 1 night, Iris Inn Washington, DC 1 night Omni Shoreham Hotel Total 14 nights

Flights
We are very proud to work with British Airways and have negotiated special inclusive tour rates exclusive to Complete North America for this itinerary giving you a great deal on non-stop flights with one of the finest carriers in the world. Should you be interested we can also extend special reduced travel rates in British Airways World Traveller Plus, Club World and FIRST.

Accommodation
We are particularly excited about the accommodations used on this itinerary. Each lodging property was specifically selected to complement the itinerary with deluxe, destination distinctive accommodations ranging from beautifully restored hotels to stunning B&B’s and full service hotels that will ensure a quite unique and memorable experience unlikely to be found on any other fly drive program.

Sometimes the accommodations named in an itinerary are not available at the time of the booking. Under these circumstances, Complete North America will book alternative accommodations of a similar standard. Such changes will be confirmed to you in writing at the time of booking confirmation. If you are not completely happy with the alternative properties we will happily discuss other possibilities with you at the same location.

Financial Protection
By booking this complete package with Complete North America you benefit from reduced rates on flights, accommodation and car rental along with complete financial protection. We are fully bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority and this package is ATOL protected under ATOL No.5368.

Arrival Washington

Depart London Heathrow – 0920
Arrive Washington Dulles – 1245
Journey Time – 8 hours 25 minutes

On arrival collect your rental vehicle from the airport and make your way to your overnight accommodation. If you would prefer we can arrange for you to collect your vehicle after you stay in Washington, the choice is yours and the price remains the same.

Accommodations in Washington, DC
Omni Shoreham Hotel

Explore Washington

As soon as you arrive in Washington, you can begin to explore the highlights of America’s capital! There are many great neighborhoods in this very cosmopolitan city, yet the key museums and historic buildings are concentrated around the US Capitol Building and the National Mall, which is lined with Smithsonian museums. Even though the attractions are free of charge, there are some important details that will make your trip most rewarding. We provide information about which facilities require timed tickets, the most efficient route to take between locations and other important details so that you can maximize your time.

You can start your visit at the US Capitol Complex, which includes the Capitol Building, House and Senate Buildings and the US Botanical Gardens. Standing on the Capitol steps looking out you can see the National Mall, a nearly two mile green space between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial which is lined with monuments and museums. The Washington Monument stands in the center between the two. The cross axis of the Mall is anchored by the White House on one end and the Jefferson Memorial on the other.

The US Capitol Building in Washington, DC was not constructed until 1793. The US Capital was located in New York City at the end of the American Revolution. The complex continues to change and grow, most recently with the renovation of the Botanic Garden Conservatory and a new National Botanic Garden and opening in Autumn 2009 is the new underground visitors centre. The Capitol Visitor Center will serve as a museum, waiting area, and food court. Visitors will enter the center on the East Front of the Capitol, and immediately go underground. Large glass windows have been installed in the ceiling's center, which will frame a view of the Capitol rotunda as one enters the CVC. Once inside, visitors will be able to get a timed entry ticket for a tour of the Capitol.

In addition to the key anchors of the National Mall, the US Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument, the rest of the monuments and memorials on or near the Mall could fill your entire trip to Washington, DC. You can select the places from a list below that you want to visit and we’ll tailor your directions accordingly.

Accommodations in Washington, DC
Omni Shoreham Hotel

Washington, DC to Baltimore, MD 40 miles

Since Washington, DC is only 40 miles from Baltimore, MD, there will be plenty of time to explore Baltimore today after a pleasant drive on the Baltimore Washington Parkway National Scenic Byway. Often overshadowed by her more famous political sister, Baltimore is a bustling city built on tradition and community life that continues to evolve while holding on to its age old maritime heritage. The scenic and popular waterfront, once teeming with longshoremen, is filled with shops, restaurants, and the National Aquarium which welcomes more than 11 million visitors each year. Over the past two decades, the Inner Harbor has transformed itself into one of the most vibrant, thriving waterfront developments in the world. It works! It is also home to the Baltimore Maritime Museum, USS Constellation, Pride of Baltimore, a World War II submarine, and the Top of the World Observation Deck. For nightlife, the Power Plant Live has dance clubs, a piano bar and comedy club. It will be hard not to catch the spirit and energy of this place.

Accommodations in Baltimore
Sheraton Inner Harbor

Baltimore to Annapolis MD 39 miles

You’re going to thoroughly enjoy the “Yachting Capital of the Chesapeake,” set right on the Bay, where the local fare is seasoned with the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay and the streets are steeped in history.

Formed less than 30 years after the Puritans landed in Massachusetts, by 1776 narrow, interwoven and circular streets connected over 400 houses and several large public buildings, many of which are still standing, It’s a great showcase of the timeless 18th century architecture that surrounds the 1779 State House, the oldest capitol building still in use in the US. St. John’s College, a liberal arts college that teaches through the “Great Books” is the third oldest institution of higher learning in America.

You can get a good view of the entire historic district on a personally narrated carriage tour. For more immersion, tour the William Paca House and Gardens or the Charles Carroll House, occupied by one of Maryland’s signers of the Declaration of Independence. More heritage awaits at History Quest and the Annapolis Maritime Museum.

To explore more maritime lore, visit the United States Naval Academy or take to the water yourself with Annapolis Bay Charters, Annapolis Sailing Cruises or one of the other many Bay explorers.

Accommodations in Annapolis
Historic Inns of Annapolis

Annapolis to Chestertown to Easton, MD 42 miles

You’ll have the next two days to explore the quaint towns of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Plan to feast on the seafood, enjoy the scenic beauty and respond to the laid back lifestyle of this unique area of the country. The enchanting coastline varies from historic waterfront towns dotted with marinas of all sizes to stretches of low, rolling farmlands broken only by the tidewater tributaries of the Chesapeake. Fresh and salt water meet in a veritable haven for fishing and boating enthusiasts, cyclists, birders and nature lovers.

Located on the banks of the Chester River, Chestertown dates back to 1706 when it served as a thriving mid-Atlantic port of entry for the colonial movement into Maryland. The County's court records are the oldest in the State, dating back to the 1640s. The Chester River curls past grand homes of wealthy merchants from the 18th and 19th centuries which still stand proudly along its banks. Among the town's finest historic buildings are the Hynson-Ringgold House, renowned for its unusual antler staircase and hip roof, and Wide Hall, a masterpiece of Georgian architecture built in 1769 by Thomas Smyth, Kent County's most prosperous merchant and an illustrious Revolutionary War figure. An old Customs House dating from the 1740s stands beside the public dock at the foot of High Street. Its detailed Flemish Bond brickwork is commonplace in many old town residences. Be sure to take the walking tour of Chestertown.

Another walking tour is in order when you reach Easton, another delightful Chesapeake town, where the historical roots date back to 1711. Even though there are shops for all budgets, eclectic art galleries and antiques, fine and casual restaurants and a picture perfect historic town center with colonial and Victorian architecture, Easton, is one of those places that feels like home. Big trees and shady streets surround big porches on block after block of old houses. Easton is so pretty that it was recently designated the 8th Best Small Town in America.

Accommodations in Easton
Tidewater Inn

Explore Maryland’s Eastern Shore

After exploring the northern portion of the Eastern Shore yesterday, today you can savor the likes of St. Michaels, Tilghman Island and Cambridge. Like Easton and Chestertown, St. Michaels is a very sophisticated, well preserved historic town. Tilghman Island by contrast, is a real waterman’s town.

Start your visit by browsing a bit on the historic walking tour in St. Michaels before visiting the three historic houses of the Talbot Historical Society, each interpreted differently. The first was built by a Quaker who chose simplicity, the second by a Quaker, who took the contrasting position of opulence and the third, long thought to be a historic residence that under the research microscope turned out to be a craftsman’s studio. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, perhaps the best museum facility on the Eastern Shore illustrates the maritime side of life, with lots of interesting exhibits. After exploring Tilghman Island take the Oxford Bellevue Ferry (seasonal), perched right on the sparkling Chesapeake Bay. Here, the waterman’s culture blends with farm life to create an interesting, timeless, lifestyle which moves at a slightly slower pace, soothed by the gently lapping, ever present water.

Cruises on the Skipjack Nathan, the traditional watercraft for fishermen in the region, leave from the Long Wharf in Cambridge. The Meredith House at LaGrange Plantation and the other museums on the site give you a better glimpse of the history of the region. Plan to meander the wonderful bird-filled landscapes of the Blackwater National Refuge, where the driving tour is open until the sun sets. This is absolutely the best time of day, other than dawn, to tour the refuge and view the wildlife.

Accommodations in Easton
Tidewater Inn

Easton, MD to Virginia Beach, VA 187 miles

Get ready to head for the beach! You’ll be traveling a very unique road to get there. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a 20-mile long, four lane highway across the Chesapeake Bay, is interrupted by two one-mile long tunnels that run beneath the Thimble Shoals and Chesapeake navigation channels. There are also two high level bridges, the North Channel Bridge and Fisherman Inlet Bridge. The area comes alive with wildlife at Fisherman Island National Wildlife Refuge, Sea Gull Island and the 1,200 acre Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge is considered by some to be the best birding on the Eastern Shore.

When Captain John Smith first landed at Virginia Beach in 1607, it must have looked like paradise! The lush coast of Virginia beckoned as the colonists knelt to kiss the ground, knowing they had been delivered to the New World! Virginia Beach’s other claim to fame is its wonderful beaches. Here, you can get outdoors, catch a wave, hook a marlin or watch a whale! Paddle in a quiet cove, watch birds in absolute silence, glide through the water or drop a line. Dolphins have been known to swim alongside kayaks!

If nature indoors is more your preference, visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. The region’s premier marine science facility is equipped with a 300,000 gallon aquarium that has splashing harbor seals, nurse and brown sharks, stingrays and other large open ocean creatures. The Atlantic Ocean Pavilion and Main Building are complemented with the Owls Creek Marsh Pavilion that reveals the story of life in the marsh and Owls Creek, the waterway on which the aquarium is located. An interpreted nature trail, complete with a 30-foot observation tower, connects the two buildings. Take advantage of any informative 10 to 15 minute educational programs conducted throughout the day in both the main building and along the nature trail. There’s even a 45 minute IMAX movie.

Accommodations in Virginia Beach
Hilton Oceanfront

Explore Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads

Relax on the beach today, or roam farther afield in Hampton Roads. Start with the Hampton History Museum which tells the fascinating story of this resilient city that has been burned several times and always sprung back to life. Exhibits also put the whole area into context. Get out on the Chesapeake Bay on the Miss Hampton II Harbor Tour which passes the point where Blackbeard's severed head was displayed on a post after his capture. Entering the Hampton Roads Harbor, you’ll be sailing the waters first plied by Captain John Smith and passing the massive warships at Naval Station Norfolk.

On the way back to your accommodations, be sure to swing through bustling, thriving, sophisticated Norfolk, the center of culture and commerce in Hampton Roads.

Accommodations in Virginia Beach
Hilton Oceanfront

Virginia Beach to Williamsburg 58 miles

There will be plenty of time to explore Colonial Williamsburg in detail today. Serving as the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was the center of power in the largest and most influential American colony. During the 150 years following the move of the capital to Richmond, Williamsburg became a quiet college town. In 1926, with the help of John D. Rockefeller, the Foundation acquired 85% of the area of the original colonial capital and began restoration.

Now you can marvel as you walk the streets where Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, George Mason and Patrick Henry sealed the fate of the new nation. An amazing 88 of the 500 buildings in Colonial Williamsburg are original. The others have been painstakingly researched, rebuilt and refitted with the authentic accoutrements of the day.

Each of the shops demonstrate their trade and you can ask questions wherever you go. Reenactments of the political undertakings are ongoing. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself in conversation with Henry, Jefferson or Washington. The living history interpreters at Williamsburg are really good!

Williamsburg is a great destination for everyone. If it is thrills and excitement you seek then Busch Gardens Europe is the place to go, with hair raising rides and unique animal attractions Busch Gardens Europe guarantees a fabulous day out for the whole family.

Accommodations in Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg Houses

Williamsburg to Richmond 52 miles

You may want to spend the morning exploring more of Williamsburg, but plan to leave enough time to explore a bit in Richmond. With 10,000 square feet and 10,000 artifacts in likely the best museum in Virginia, the Story of Virginia tells the story of the Commonwealth from start to finish. A museum right after Williamsburg? This is no ordinary museum. When you walk out of the Virginia Historical Society you’ll be able to put all of your visit in Virginia into context. The way they tell the story is not stuffy museum material. The presentations are colorful, the text interesting and the artifacts fascinating.
Enjoy the view of Richmond from your hotel.

Accommodations in Richmond
Omni Richmond Hotel

Richmond to Charlottesville 71 miles

Since it’s only an hour between Richmond and Charlottesville, we recommend getting an early start to visit Monticello, one of the most intensely interesting homes on the North American continent. Thomas Jefferson’s magnificent mountaintop mansion was designated a World Heritage Treasure by the United Nations. On the tour, you’ll learn more about the genius of Jefferson’s inventions as well as the role he played in the founding of America as author of the Declaration of Independence and later on, in the opening of the North American continent when he sponsored the Lewis and Clark expedition through the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase.

A short drive from Monticello takes you to the University of Virginia campus, designed by Jefferson, which he could see from his mountain top home. Downtown, you’ll discover that this quaint little city no longer has a Main Street. The street was closed to automobiles and bricked as an open walking plaza lined with shops. The street corner where Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe (who served America for 25 years as the third, fourth and fifth US Presidents) met as friends is not far away.

Accommodations in Charlottesville
Omni Charlottesville Hotel

Explore Charlottesville

Today is the day to explore President Monroe’s home, within earshot of Monticello and President Madison’s home, Montpelier, which is about 20 miles north of Charlottesville. If you enjoy wineries, one of the finest wine tours in the country circles Charlottesville.

Accommodations in Charlottesville
Omni Charlottesville Hotel

Charlottesville - Blue Ridge Parkway 28 miles

Ever dream of cruising along one of America’s most beautiful roads, discovering historic towns just off the roadway and meandering back in no particular hurry? Today you can experience the delight of a trip down a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway. While traveling over hill and dale, your eyes are always reaching out for the next vista. Soon you can extend your vision to the farthest Appalachian Mountain ridge lost somewhere in the expansive blue mountain haze. As a driving adventure, the Blue Ridge Parkway tops the list of scenic beauty for many. The Parkway is one of the few roads where every season is spectacular in its own right. In spring, the flowers are out, and leaves are budding on the trees. Summer boasts a lush strong green. In fall, Mother Nature puts on her best dress and delivers a roadway shrouded in blazing color. In winter, the reds and golds give rise to snow covered mountains, after which the myriad of greens return again. Sometimes, in silence, a newly fallen snow appears like magic.

Accommodations in Waynesboro
Iris Inn

Waynesboro to the Skyline Drive to Washington, DC - 170 miles

From Charlottesville, it’s a short drive up and over the mountain to the start of the Skyline Drive, the wonderful road that traverses Shenandoah National Park from top to bottom. Plan to savor your time on this road nestled deep in the forest. Stay within the 35 mile an hour speed limit to let the spectacular views flash through your car windows.

When it’s time for lunch along the Skyline Drive, we suggest Big Meadows. You can enjoy the spectacular view from the windows of the dining room while eating southern fried chicken, trout, or a piece of homemade blackberry ice cream pie. The scenic valley spreads out below the lodge like an early American landscape painting.

As you near Front Royal, you’ll reach Luray Caverns, which is just a short detour tthe west. Luray Caverns are the largest constantly changing underground environment on the East Coast. It is kept at a comfortable and constant 54 degrees Fahrenheit. Once underground, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a netherworld of growing and shrinking stones. The natural structures, including one that looks like a fried egg, are both timeless and terrific.

From there, it’s just a short drive back to Washington, DC.

Accommodations in Washington, DC
Omni Shoreham Hotel

Depart Washington

Today you have a full day to explore the many sites and attractions that Washington, DC or the surrounding region has to offer as detailed in Day 2 of this itinerary. Your flight home to the U.K. is not until late evening.

When the time comes make your way back out to Washington Dulles airport to return your rental car and check-in for your flight home to the U.K. with the opportunity to look back on an itinerary offering a really diverse range of memories from rich history to striking landscapes and coastlines.

Depart Washington Dulles – 2300
Arrive London Heathrow – 1125*
Journey time – 6 hours 25 minutes
* Arrival next day UK time

Capital Region Flydrive - Photo Album

We are pleased to be able to display a selection of photographs from this Flydrive

Prices (in Pounds Sterling)

The prices shown below are 'per person'.

Cost Includes ....

• British Airways non-stop flights
• UK & US Airport taxes
• 14 nights room only accommodation and tax (Full breakfast included at the ‘Iris Inn’)
• 14 days Compact car rental based on Alamo ‘Gold Rate’ (Intermediate for Triple/Quad Rates). Click here for details.
• Exclusive travel documentation portfolio packed full of useful information day by day guides, personalised maps, driver directions and all applicable tickets and vouchers.
• Due to the varying and frequently changing fuel surcharges imposed by all carriers from time to time the costs above do not include these charges. Any applicable charge will be confirmed to you at the time of enquiry or booking.

Triple & Quad Rooms
Due to the nature of the historic properties selected for this itinerary it is not possible to obtain rooms suitable for 3 or 4 people at all hotels / Inns featured. For triple and quad rooms, the Colonial Williamsburg Houses will be substituted with the Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg.

Weather
We are able to offer this itinerary year round as weather generally remains settled although during winter months certain regions including Washington, DC do experience cold weather and snowfall. Autumn offers spectacular colours in the mountain regions and summer along the Eastern coastline is a time to savour. As with most itineraries a layered clothing approach offers you the best chance to adapt to weather conditions throughout your time in the region.

Hotel Availability
Sometimes the hotels named in this itinerary are not available at the time of booking. Under these circumstances Complete North America will book alternative accommodation of a similar standard. Such changes will be confirmed in writing to you at the time of booking confirmation. If you are not completely happy with the alternative hotel we will happily discuss other possibilities with you in the same location.

Hotel Upgrades
At Complete North America we pride ourselves on being able to offer help and guidance with some of the finest resorts in America and indeed the world. If you would like to visit this region but are looking for unique luxury accommodation please call and ask to speak to someone who can offer advice on luxury hotels in America, we have a number of such specialists with a wealth of personal experience to share with you.

Best days to travel, seat assignments, special requests and flight upgrades

• British Airways operates non-stop flights to Washington Dulles daily. Should you wish to fly with an alternative carrier to British Airways we would also be happy to prepare a quote for you.
• Where available we will be delighted to take care of any special meal requests on your flights (vegetarian, child meals etc) – please discuss with us at the time of booking.
• We have exceptional deals on upgrades with British Airways to World Traveller Plus, Club World and FIRST.
• We have discounted prices for British Airways regional flights to Heathrow, please ask for details and if you are flying from Northern Ireland or Republic of Ireland? Read about special deals for connecting flights here.

Car Rental in America

The car rental included in this package is based on the Alamo 'Gold' rate which represents the mose inclusive rate you can buy. For a full breakdown of just exactly what this rate includes, a full explanation of all inclusions and information on cars please visit our car rental section by clicking on the link below.

As part of our agreement with Alamo we are able to offer you GPS Satellite Navigation as an optional extra that must be pre-booked. For more information on this click the link below.

Go to the car rental section » Read more about Sat Nav »

Travel Insurance
Whilst it is not compulsory to take our travel insurance, it's imperative that you do not travel without comprehensive travel insurance. Our adult premium is £49 per person for 2 weeks (Age restrictions do apply), however we do have rates for family policies and annual travel insurance, please call for details. In all cases taking our travel insurance will require acceptance of the medical health declaration and all pre-existing conditions should be declared to the insurance company.

All travellers must hold a full 10 year machine readable British Passport and have no criminal convictions to travel to the United States without the need for a visa. For more details on passport requirements please visit www.usembassy.org.uk

Ready to book?

Call our booking line on 0845 263 7100

(Mon-Fri. 09.00-18.00 or Sat 10.00-17.00)

A member of our team will be happy to answer any questions you have before processing your booking and the initial non-refundable deposit payment of £150.00 per person. We will endeavour to secure your flights and take care of any special meal requests during this call. The remaining components of your holiday will be put in place and a written 'Confirmation/Invoice' detailing everything we have confirmed on your behalf will be sent by regular mail along with a receipt for the deposit to your nominated contact address. We try to complete this whole process within 7- 10 working days of accepting your order and deposit, however meeting this target is very much dependant on the speed of response from our hotel and tour partners in North America.

Please note - By agreeing to pay a deposit you are instructing us to commence with the booking of your holiday arrangements and as such you enter into an agreement with Complete North America Limited. This agreement is governed by our standard booking conditions a copy of which is available to you at anytime and included with your written holiday confirmation.

Click here to view our Booking Conditions & Promise of Fair Trading