11-Day Total Solar Eclipse and Southern Sunshine Tour from Austin: San Antonio, Galveston, Lafayette and New Orleans

Day 1: Austin, Texas
Welcome to Austin! Make your own way to the hotel for check-in at your leisure. Check in is between 3-4pm. Meet your guide and fellow travelers in the main lobby at 4:30pm for a welcome meeting and an included dinner.
This evening, your expert guide will discuss the exciting tour ahead. Tomorrow is going to be a VERY full day - action packed!
Meal: Welcome Dinner 

Day 2: Austin, Texas
Today is a very early start and is dedicated to this once in a lifetime event. Set off for the best place from where we can see the eclipse unobstructed. A beautiful experience that you will see together with millions in awe watching. Austin will be buzzing with energy!
We have been looking forward to this day, today the total solar eclipse. This day is dedicated to this natural phenomenon. In the wee hours of the morning, we set off for the best place from where we can see the eclipse unobstructed.
That's in Fredericksburg, a 1.5-hour drive from Austin. This is where the eclipse lasts the longest - over 4 minutes with totality. We experience it at a local farm where we have a private viewing area, surrounded by nature. Around 13:30 p.m. local time, the moon slowly moves in front of the sun, enveloping the surrounding area in darkness for just over 4 minutes. Austin and the surrounding area will be buzzing with excitement.
Still reminiscing about the experience, you'll return to downtown Austin, where you'll spend the rest of the afternoon on your own. Share your stories with the other travelers and enjoy a relaxing evening in the city.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Austin, Texas
After breakfast, we start the day with a visit to Barton Springs, a natural spring where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters. Throughout the year, this is a popular place for swimming due to the pleasant temperature of the water. Time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
After the picnic lunch, we delve into Austin's rich music history. Explore the shops and musical hotspots south of Congress Avenue, stroll the streets and discover unique boutiques, art galleries and record stores. This lively neighborhood has a rich history and is the birthplace of many legendary musicians.
This afternoon, enjoy the famous 6th Street area in the heart of downtown. 6th street is known for its lively bars and live music performances. Marvel at the many music locations and enjoy the various musical styles that are a staple of this neighborhood.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: San Antonio, Texas
This morning, drive approx. 1.5 hours to San Antonio for a visit to the historic Alamo. This ancient mission building stands in a famous location and has played a pivotal role in Texas history. As we explore the Alamo, listen to the stories of the Texas War of Independence and the many legends woven around it.
San Antonio is divided in two by the San Antonio River. A lot takes place on this famous stretch. In the afternoon, stroll along the river walk, a lively and bustling promenade with a choice of restaurants, cafés and bars. Here you can enjoy tasty Tex-Mex dishes, tasty margaritas and other local specialties.
You can also choose to take a boat trip on the river to experience the promenade from the water.
2 nights hotel - San Antonio
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: San Antonio, Texas
Today is a free day in San Antonio - your guide will help you plan. This vibrant city has many options. Enjoy the La Vallita market, the shops of downtown, live music, the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the Spanish Governor's Palace and the San Antonio Museum of Art. 
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Galveston, Texas
This morning, leave the interior of Texas and head toward the coast, with a stop along the way for a BBQ lunch.
On arrival, enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the beach. Galveston is a charming coastal town with beaches stretching along the Gulf of Mexico. In the evening, this city comes alive with a lively nightlife. Sample some local seafood in cozy restaurants, enjoy live music in atmospheric bars, or gaze out over the sea with a cocktail in hand at sunset.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Lafayette, Louisiana
After almost a week in Texas, we exchange this state for the Creole State, Louisiana. By ferry, we cross to Bolivar Peninsula and continue to Lafayette. This city is known for its authentic Cajun cuisine and Zydeco music. It offers you a mix of history, culture, music and culinary delights.
This evening, taste the flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine in one of the many restaurants. Jambalaya and crawfish étouffée are among the local favorites!
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans -  'The Big Easy'! Stop near Gibson for an included swamp tour with lunch through the Bayou. This area has the most beautiful cypress swamps and endless bayous that Louisiana has to offer.
Spanish moss hangs down from the trees and in the swamps you will find wildlife all year round. The captain will tell you all about the swamps and bays of the Cajun Country while you look out for alligators.
This afternoon, arrive in New Orleans. This city was founded by French traders in 1718 and offer a rich historical past.
There's always something going on in New Orleans, whether it's live music, street parties or cultural events. We end the day with a visit to one of the many restaurants to enjoy the local cuisine. We recommend taking an evening stroll along the Mississippi River with stunning views of the illuminated city skyline.
We stay here for 3 nights, so we have plenty of time to explore New Orleans.
Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: New Orleans, Louisiana
Free day at leisure to explore.
New Orleans offers a diverse mix of European, Creole and Cajun culture. Maybe start your day in the historic French Quarter. Stroll through the narrow streets and admire the colorful buildings and balconies full of flowers.
Take in the sounds of Bourbon Street, where you'll hear live music and experience the city's festive atmosphere. Or visit the historic Garden District, St. Louis Cathedral or Jackson Square with street performers and local artists. The diversity in the city makes New Orleans one of the most visited cities in the United States.
In the evening there is plenty to do, there is always a live performance somewhere. In the Preservation Hall, top jazz musicians play every night in front of a small audience, makes this experience worthy of the queue!
Meal: Breakfast

Day 10: New Orleans, Louisiana
How about a cooking class today? Your guide can organize a fun day if you want to learn how to creole cook!
Take horse-drawn carriage ride, take a walking tour of the French Quarter, visit the famous Cafe Du Monde for a beignet, or just relax and soak up the sights.
Tonight, your guide will organize a dinner out with the group - self pay. Farewell dinner.
Meal: Breakfast 

Day 11:  New Orleans, Louisiana
Check out of the hotel at leisure before 11am for your onward travel.