Most Inspirational Moment
Hard to pick one. Preservation Hall and Grand Ole Opry were musical highlights. The Civil Rights Museum was so moving - located at the motel where MLK was assassinated - and very comprehensive. The Country Music Hall of Fame was worth at least half a day.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jay quite simply, made the trip. The bus journeys were enlivened with his knowledge and fabulous playlist designed to accompany the history and progression of musical styles as we journeyed north. He joined in the group banter in the bus, drove safely, worked hard, unloading and loading luggage, and was very helpful at ferrying us around even to optional activities.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Book ahead for Preservation Hall and the Grand Ole Opry. Some of our group were disappointed not to get in or be seated r standing at the very back. The food was not to my taste - deep fried pecan pie anyone? And vegetables were hard to find with limited choice. I bought supplies at a health food store for my lunches (there was an ice box in the bus) Some prices were a shock . My last night dinner (1 course with veg and 2 glasses average wine) was $62 - then with sales tax, 20% obligatory gratuity and an extra tip for kitchen staff, the final bill was $93. The trip notes suggestions for tips for the guide are way out, considering that he drove, hauled luggage, saved us some taxi fares. $12-$15 pp per day is a more like it. Given the shocking amount of plastic waste (polystyrene plates and plastic cutlery) you might want to consider taking some travel cutlery with you.