At uncommon Journeys & Train Holidays, we have long had a reputation for designing holidays that are without equal in terms of imagination and uniqueness and for July of 2010, we have created a brilliant itinerary that has never been offered in history: downtown Chicago to Midtown Manhattan by small coastal liner via Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, the Welland Canal, Lake Ontario, the historic Erie Canal and the Hudson River, to name just a few. Nicer still, not only will our guests view America, up-close at 'see level' but we have included an amazing collection of ports on the way like quaint Mackinac Island, Dearborn, Michigan, Cleveland, Niagara Falls, Oswego, NY, West Point and, of course, New York City.

Happily, in addition to interesting ports, our 'pocket' cruise ship, the 98-passenger Grande Mariner is the perfect antidote to those tired of huge, mass-market cruise ships carrying 4000 guests at a time. With an all- American crew, life aboard is casual and informal with no need for 'dressing up'. Meals are superb and are naturally included in the fare. Snacks and beverages are available 24 hours a day and there is a comfortable observation lounge in addition to open deck space. Better still, is what the Grande Mariner does not offer: no napkin folding lessons, tired Vegas-style cabaret shows, gold chains by the inch and the relentless 'nickel and diming' found on so many ships nowadays. Guests enjoy a low-key, relaxed voyage on a well- designed ship, able to get up close to small ports of call. All cabins are comfortable with in-room facilities and both the lounge and dining room can seat all guests at one time.

Since a classic holiday deserves a classic hotel, our Great Lakes Holiday begins with the perfect introduction to the 'Windy City', an overnight stay at the fabled Drake Hotel, the grande dame of Chicago hotels, before we set sail. We have intentionally left plenty of free time to explore all that Chicago has to offer including the nearby Art Institute and Grant Park, the Museum of Science and Industry. As befits an epic journey, in New York City our guests enjoy the extraordinary luxury and style of the famed Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in Park Avenue along with a special Farewell Dinner. Of course, this holiday is fully escorted by a professional tour manager from start to finish with special parties and events both ashore and aboard the Grande Mariner. But, with only 49 rooms, these two voyages will fill up quickly so prompt reservations are encouraged! All Aboard!