Deep South & Delta Blues

Name: Deep South & Delta Blues
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.5 (2 reviews)

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USD 7,999

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Culture

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group, Private Group Adventures

Activity :

Culture

Activity Levels :

1 out of 7 - Leisurely

Group Size :

6 - 13

Ages :

16+

Trip Code :

PDB

Trace the roots of American music along the Mississippi

Discover the cultural landscape that gave birth to the blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll on this tour along the mighty Mississippi. Days move a little slower in the South, as you pass time with a sweet tea or a Jack and Coke, taking in the sights and sounds of Music Row in Nashville, Beale Street in Memphis and along Bourbon Street in New Orleans. You also savour authentic cuisine and enjoy Southern hospitality as you float down the Mississippi on a riverboat cruise.

Highlights

Visit Houmas House Plantation and Gardens
Enjoy a Mississippi riverboat dinner cruise
Explore Memphis including Elvis' Graceland and the Beale Street nightlife
Spend three nights in New Orleans and the colourful music scene of Bourbon Street
Discover Nashville, the country music capital
Uncover Cajun culture and cuisine

Key Information

Travel by private minibus
Group normally 6 to 13, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
10 nights in hotels and one night in a historic property

Countries visited: USA

What's Included

All accommodation
11 breakfasts and one dinner
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout

What's Not Included

Flights
Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations
Arrival and departure transfers
Optional activities

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
Read more about our other initiatives here.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

By travelling in a small group, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
Our local partner is a member of the San Francisco Green Business Program, which recognises businesses, non-profit organisations and institutions in the City and County of San Francisco that meet high environmental standards.
Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.

Itinerary

Welcome to Atlanta and the southern state of Georgia! Today is free for you to explore before a welcome meeting at 6pm in your hotel. A self-guided walking tour of downtown Atlanta is highly recommended and if you fancy a bite of Southern cuisine, stop by Empire State South.

Optional activities:

Atlanta History Centre: US$17
Atlanta Botanical Garden: US$19

Accommodation: La Quinta Atlanta Airport North (or similar)

This morning, we start with a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta. Learn more about his life and activism at the visitor centre, and then there is time to explore the area, including the Ebenezer Baptist Church, Martin Luther King Jr.'s tomb, and the house where he was born and raised.

From here, we head west into Alabama and to the largest city in the state, Birmingham. This city was the primary site of the Civil Rights Movement and where Martin Luther King Jr. began his campaign of civil disobedience. We recommend a visit to the Civil Rights Institute for an excellent introduction to the volatile history of the region as you start your journey through the Deep South.

Optional activities:

Civil Rights Institute in Birmingham, Alabama: US$15

Accommodation: Hampton Inn Birmingham Colonnade 280 (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Welcome to the cultural melting pot of the Deep South, New Orleans, otherwise known as the Big Easy. The eclectic mix of European, Creole and Cajun cultures manifests in every aspect of the architecture, cuisine and musical scene. Take in the sights and sounds of Bourbon Street, relax in the Garden District and absorb the ambience of the French Quarter. Founded by French traders in 1718, there are many layers of history in this city, and the many attractions combined make it one of the most visited cities in the USA.

Step back in time to when life was gracefully slow and enjoy an included dinner cruise on the Mississippi, dining on delicious local cuisine influenced by the myriad cultures that make up Louisiana.

There is plenty to do in New Orleans come evening, not least enjoying some of the many live performances that take place nightly. This includes Preservation Hall, where top-drawer jazz musicians play every evening to a small audience in an intimate space – be prepared to wait in line. There will also be the chance to step out of the city and explore the wild river swamplands of Louisiana, where you can head out by boat beneath the cypress trees in search of alligators.

Optional activities:

Alligator swamp tour, New Orleans: US$25-US$40
Various historical walking tours eg French Quarter, Garden District: US$25
Haunted French Quarter ghost tour: US$25
New Orleans voodoo and graveyard tour: US$20
New Orleans Preservation Hall: US$15-US$20
New Orleans jazz clubs: US$10-US$20
Mardi Gras World in New Orleans: US$22

Accommodation: The Blake Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we visit Houmas House Plantation and Gardens. This antebellum estate was completed in 1828; with lush gardens, ponds and a majestic live oak alley, it makes for a wonderful stop. Next, we follow the river road north to the first established settlement on the Mississippi. Natchez, the original capital of the Mississippi Territory, was at the heart of the trade in enslaved people and is the birthplace of the Mississippi riverboat. We recommend a self-guided walking tour through the historic district where there are more than 50 antebellum homes and historic churches. Also worthy of a visit is the Under the Hill area made famous by Mark Twain or discover one of the most interesting cemeteries in the South.

Optional activities:

Antebellum mansions, Natchez: US$12-US$25

Accommodation: Guest House Natchez (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Next up is Clarksdale and the Hopson Plantation, the former home of legendary blues pianist Pinetop Perkins. It is also where they tested the International Harvester automated cotton picker. Your leader will tell you the history, explaining the system of sharecropping and the evolution of the cotton industry. Clarksdale is also home to the Crossroads, where legend says blues musician Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil. Within the town itself is the Delta Blues Museum, a shrine of blues artefacts and memorabilia, plus actor Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero Blues Club. Red's is definitely worth a visit for live music: an authentic juke joint showcasing the real heart of the South.

Optional activities:

Delta Blues Museum, Clarksdale: US$12
Ground Zero Blues Club, Clarksdale: US$8

Accommodation: Hampton Inn Clarksdale (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we cross into Tennessee. Near the Mississippi River, Memphis has a long and colourful past. Legendary forefathers such as Louis Armstrong, Muddy Waters and BB King put Beale Street on the musical map. A highlight of your stay in Memphis is an included excursion to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.

We also have the chance to visit Sun Studio, which opened in 1950 and is where many great names have passed through, from Howlin' Wolf to Johnny Cash. Outside of music, the National Civil Rights Museum, in the former Lorraine Hotel, at the site where Martin Luther King was assassinated, is well worth a visit.

Optional activities:

Civil Rights Museum in Memphis: US$16
Sun Studio in Memphis: US$14
Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Memphis: U$13 (closed Mondays)

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We make our way to Nashville, the undisputed capital of country music. Home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Wildhorse Saloon, Nashville is the perfect opportunity to try line dancing (select nights only). Broadway is lined with honky-tonks and intimate live music venues playing all genres of music.

It is also the capital of Tennessee and the second largest city in the state after Memphis. Situated on the banks of the Cumberland River, it was established as a major port by settlers in 1779. Our time in Nashville is free for you to indulge in your choice of the many music and entertainment options available (entrance fees apply). The Grand Ole Opry is the longest running radio show in the world and a recommended highlight. You can enjoy performances at the Grand Ole Opry House, 15mi (24km) east of the city. Book before you arrive to avoid missing out as these shows are popular.

Optional activities:

Grand Ole Opry: US$32-US$90
Ryman Auditorium tour: US$22-US$35
Country Music Hall of Fame: US$25-US$40
Johnny Cash Museum: US$19

Accommodation: The Capitol Hotel Downtown Nashville (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We return to Atlanta today. There may be the option of stopping at Lynchburg to pay homage to Tennessee's most famous drink! Enjoy a tour of the Jack Daniel's Whiskey Distillery and a serving of Southern hospitality.

Our tour of the Deep South ends in the modern metropolis of Atlanta, known as the New York of the South. If you're staying on, be sure to stop by Gladys Knight's Chicken and Waffles restaurant.

This tour ends at our gateway hotel at approximately 5pm. We can book your post-tour accommodation at our gateway hotel if required. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 9pm.

Optional activities:

Jack Daniel’s Whiskey Distillery: US$17-US$22

Meals Included: Breakfast

Essential Info

Visa

USA

Travellers from the UK and most EU countries can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) provided they have registered for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) – which costs US$21 – and are in possession of an onward air ticket and machine-readable passport when entering the US. Visas are required for some nationalities and requirements often change; it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas and fulfil any requirements for this trip. We recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/united-states-america
Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/united-states
United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/usa/entry-requirements

Please note, regulations stipulate that any person who has travelled to Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since March 2011 (or has dual nationality of Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria) may no longer qualify for the VWP. In addition, if you have travelled to Cuba since 12 January 2021, you will not be eligible for the VWP and should instead apply for a visa to travel to, or transit via, the USA.

Vaccination

USA

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for polio, tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

Eating and Drinking

There are 11 breakfasts and one dinner included

Meals that aren’t included will usually be eaten in restaurants. On average, hotel breakfasts cost US$6-US$12, lunches US$8-US$15 and dinners US$13-US$30; this does not include alcoholic beverages. Wine costs approximately US$5 per glass and beer US$4 per bottle (in New Orleans you may find that wine and beer costs are slightly higher). A tip of approximately 15 percent to 20 percent is added to group meals in restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices.

Please make sure we are aware of any special dietary requirements before travelling. We do all we can to accommodate various dietary requirements but in parts of North America certain food types can be limited.

Weather

Spring and autumn are the best time to visit the Deep South as the temperature is milder, averaging around 20C (68F). Summer can be hot and humid reaching highs around 35C (95F), thunderstorms are common due to the sub-tropical climate.

Is this trip for you?

This trip has been rated Activity Level 1 (Leisurely).

This discovery tour is suitable for people of all fitness levels. It has a relaxed pace with an emphasis on sightseeing, discovering local culture, visiting main attractions and enjoying beautiful views.

There will be a variety of optional activities available so you can tailor the tour to your interests. Your tour leader will organise optional activities for you and you can pay for these locally in cash. You’ll find the main optional activities listed under each itinerary day description, along with guideline prices. It may not be possible to do all optional activities listed on each tour. If you plan to visit the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, book in advance and directly on their website. The shows change most nights but, if possible, it’s best to book for the second night in Nashville.

Although each tour follows an itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility and from time to time your tour leader may suggest changes. This may be due to road conditions, the weather or a visit to a special attraction or event that happens to be in progress. Flexibility is key and often a side diversion will be a tour highlight. Hikes and optional activities cannot be guaranteed and may vary depending on ability, group interest, weather conditions and time of year.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as not suitable for full wheelchair users, but it may be suitable for other persons of reduced mobility. Please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Anne Ferguson

Reviewed November 2019

Deep South - the story of the Blues and music of America

If you’re into music (especially The Blues) and want to understand where it all started and developed, this is the trip for you. Starting with the background of the Civil Rights movement and visiting iconic sites such as the bridge at Selma and the museums in Atlanta and Birmingham, we followed the development of the Blues from New Orleans through Clarksdale, Memphis and finally Nashville. We experienced a wide range of live music – gospel, blues, jazz, country, rockabilly, bluegrass etc and saw the places where it all began. It was a truly entertaining and memorable trip from the beginning to the end made even more special by our awesome guide, Jay.

Most Inspirational Moment

Historically - walking over the bridge at Selma, which although not on the original itinary, was made possible by our guide. Musically - listening to great Blues band at a Juke Joint called 'Reds' in Clarksdale.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Top bloke. On a scale of 1-10 we would score him 12 Jay Burleson knew his music, knew the history and did all he could to make the trip special for us. (eg he found out one of the worlds best blues guitarists was playing in a cafe on the outskirts of Nashville and helped us get to see him play!)

Advice for Potential Travellers

Embrace it all - every day and every night - you can always rest when you get home!

Jules Beasley

Reviewed September 2018

Good music trip

This is a great trip if you’re keen to experience the USA Deep South Music and history. Great experience of New Orleans, Martin Luther King and the civil rights movements, Elvis and the music history of Memphis and Nashville. The trip is with Grand American Adventures- Exodus sister Company. You travel in a small tour bus driven by your guide. We were lucky we had 9 people on the trip as any more would have been a squeeze. A few early starts and longest drives on the road were 5-6 hours but had plenty of rest stop breaks. There’s a lot to see and do plus the music & dvds on the van helped get us in the mood and educate us to each area.

Most Inspirational Moment

New Orleans is great and the included steamboat dinner on the Mississippi was fantastic. Would also highly recommend the Honey Island swamp tour, we saw much more wildlife than just alligators. Elvis Birthplace & Graceland also amazing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Nicole was fantastic, she went above and beyond and was really helpful. There were a few timing issues which meant a couple of important sights were rushed. Sadly her boyfriend turned up for the last 4 days which turned the trip a little sour and spoilt the group dynamic.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It’s a great trip but do your research. If you’re not into the music scene then this trip might not be for you. Food is great and atms are everywhere.

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Covid-19 refund commitment

You will get a refund if you have to cancel your trip due to COVID-19.

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Looking to set your own pace on your next adventure?

Then why not try our Self-Guided holidays that put you in control

For anyone leaving from the UK we would be pleased to book your flight in conjunction with your tour. Please contact us for competitive prices on flights departing from most UK airports.

If you are booking your own flights, you are free to arrive at any time on day one but it is advisable that you arrive in plenty of time to reach your joining hotel and attend your welcome meeting. We also suggest that you book your return flight the day after your tour finishes. If you do have to return home on the day your tour finishes, please make sure that your flight does not depart before 21:00 hrs.

Please note that we cannot be held responsible for any delays, cancellations, changes to your flights, or any missed flights. We are unable to delay a tour, or finish a tour early due to your flight times.