Private Hermitage Access Only with Smithsonian Journeys
Join Smithsonian Journeys next March and November for one of 2009’s most exceptional tours, “The Glories of the Hermitage.” A nine-day stay in imperial St. Petersburg, Russia, offers insider access to the treasures of the Hermitage Museum. Study Leader Tatyana Pasynkova, a senior curator, will accompany both departures, sharing her in-depth knowledge and passion for the museum’s collections. She will be joined by other expert curators and guides for an insightful, educational and relaxed stay in St. Petersburg.
This privileged-access tour is a unique chance to experience the life of a Hermitage insider, providing rare access to areas typically restricted to the public. Participants will spend Monday morning, when the Hermitage is closed to the public, at leisure exploring the museum free from the press of the crowds, followed by lunch in the staff café. “The Glories of the Hermitage” also takes participants on a special tour of the state-of-the-art storage facility off-site. Membership to the International Hermitage Friends’ Club is also provided as a benefit of the program.
This tour gives travelers the chance to experience the local culture of St. Petersburg as well, with stops at the major sights, including a private tour of the Peter and Paul Fortress when it will be closed to the public. Dinners at some of the city’s best restaurants are provided, as well as tickets to a performance at the famed Mariinsky Theater. Prices start at $9,995 for the March 13-21, 2009, and Nov. 6-14, 2009, departures. Visit Smithsonian Journeys online at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org for more information and to request a brochure.
About Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the educational travel program of the Smithsonian Institution with over 38 years dedicated to life-enriching experiences abroad. Annually, more than 250 expert-led international and domestic itineraries offer travelers exclusive access and unforgettable experiences. For more information, call 1 (877) EDU-TOUR (338-8687) or visit www.SmithsonianJourneys.org.
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SI-511-2008