Name: 9-day Cultural Gems of Turkey & Greece on Windstar Legend Yacht
Start: 2022-09-23T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2022-10-02T00:00:00.000Z
Location: İstanbul, Turkey

Alt-Esc Travel

Email address verified

171 reviews

Sep 23 - Oct 2, 2022

Group size: 1 - 23

9-day Cultural Gems of Turkey & Greece on Windstar Legend Yacht

İstanbul, Turkey

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Alt-Esc Travel

Email address verified

171 reviews

Sep 23 - Oct 2, 2022

Group size: 1 - 23

Criss-cross the Aegan Sea to ancient ruins. little-known villages, and delicious culinary havens during this 9-day cruise along the sun-drenched coasts of Turkey and Greece. Recline on ancient Ottoman marble and soak in the warm, steamy atmosphere of a 500-year-old Turkish bath in Istanbul. Sip red wines and sample Anatolian cuisine in a vineyard near Canakkals on the Darandelles. Lunch on crunchy fried calamari and shrimp saganaki in Mykonos as hungry pelicans and wandering cats await the return of the local fishing fleet.

Relish an exclusive musical performance and dinner beneath the stars in the glow of the ancient city Ephesus. Gather olives, fresh fruits, and regional vegetables for cooking up Turkish meals with a talented Bodrum chef. Wander cobbled lanes winding between medieval towers, markets, and fortifications in Rhodes.

Once back on the ship get an afternoon massage, take a snooze or my favorite, hit the Marine Deck (weather permitting) where you can go swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking or just float and play with the water toys. What a fabulous way to cool off and refresh after a fun-filled day ashore!

Each evening you leave a port is a celebration. The “Sail Away” is not a good-bye but a “see ya next time and a where to next!” Take a moment to listen to the beautiful music playing, watch the sails unfurl, marvel at the colors of the setting sun, and taste the delicious champagne. It is a truly magical part of the trip – you will not want to miss! Then it’s onto the dining room for a gourmet’s gourmet dinner where the chefs have prepared food like you have never seen on a ship before. No assembly line pre-prepared meals here. Each course is more beautiful than the one before, the wines are harmoniously paired with the entrees and the decadent desserts. (Let’s just say thank goodness you can get more than one!) The dining room is a delightful buzz with people making new friends and old friends reconnecting.

Two of your evenings feature especially extraordinary dinners. One will tantalize your taste buds with the delicious spread of Windstar's Seafood Under the Stars and Signature party. The second evening includes an immersion activity designed just for us!

Post dinner you can hear live music in one of the lounges, you can take a walk on deck to see the stars, you can have an after dinner drink by the pool or relax in your very comfortable and well-appointed cabin. Don’t miss this unique itinerary on this spectacular ship! This is the life!

Windstar Legend

GUEST CAPACITY: 312 Windstar Legend Deck Plan

GUEST DECKS: 6

CREW MEMBERS: 188-190 Black Sea Excursions offered by Windstar

LENGTH: 522 feet (159 meters)

BEAM: 62 feet (19 meters)

DRAFT: 17.7 feet (5.4 meters)

CRUISING SPEED: 15 knots

PROPULSION: Twin propeller, driven by two Wartsila diesel engines

TONNAGE: 12,995 gross registered tons (grt)

SHIP’S REGISTRY: Bahamas

Final payments are due to Windstar on June 25, 2022, Alt Esc will be use the credit card that you supplied for your Registration Deposit to pay the balance due to Windstar BY June 24, 2022.

PLEASE DO NOT MAKE CRUISE PAYMENTS IN WETRAVEL!

To make a payment on your cruise, please contact Tricia directly Tricia@Alt-Esc.Net!

On Board MONEY
At least $100 On Board Credit
Alt Esc Party-Cool Kids
Group Cocktail Party for the Cool Kids - exclusive to our group! We will have our own space, bartender and invite the officers to join us!
Luxurious Stateroom
Beautifully appointed ocean view stateroom or suite
Group Introduction
At the get-to-know-you Happy Hour you will meet the others in our exclusive group, review the itinerary and learn all about our adventure!
Gourmet Meals
All meals in all venues - no up charge for specialty restaurants
Beverages
All non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty tea and coffee drinks
Group Leader
Full Time Alt Esc Guide (exclusive to our group) to help you have the BEST adventure EVER!
Open Bridge
Access to the Open Bridge is thrilling! Get a tour and watch as they masterfully navigate this UBER-COOL Yacht around!
Port Sail Aways
Beautiful 'Sail Away' program from every port - say good bye with great music, lighting and sharing the stories of your day!
Welcome Reception
Enjoy a glass of the bubbly as you are registered, all formalities are covered and you explore your new home for the next 12 days!
Signature Deck BBQ
Spectacular onboard deck barbecue
Local Entertainment
All onboard entertainment including local performances in most regions
Working Out
Full use of fitness facility - free weights and machines. Classes also offered once on board.
Splish-Splashing
Full use of Marine Deck to splash, float and play with cool water toys, boats, stand up paddle boards, kayaks, etc (weather permitting)
Spoiling
Fresh fruit and flowers in your stateroom or suite
Pampering
Plush bathrobe and slippers
Chillaxation
Flat screen TV and DVD player

Round trip flight
Easy roundtrip USA to Istanbul. Fly in early or stay later to explore
Pre Cruise Hotel
Always good idea to arrive night before a cruise departure to avoid missing the ship! Hotel/port transfer will be offered as a group option soon!
Port Transfers
from Istanbul to Port and from port to Istanbul airport . This will be offered as a group option soon.
Gratuities
Daily gratuities ($13.50 per person/per day charged to your on-board account)
Port Excursions
Excursions not provided by the ship
Drinks-not included
Alcohol packages are available and will be offered as you register
Optional Ship Activities
Spa & other optional activities

Star Porthole Suite (Cat SP)

Cruise Fare $4345 Previous passengers:

NDA's $425 $4345 + NDA $425 + Taxes $200 = $4970

Taxes $200

TOTAL $4970 Standard: 15% Deposit ($746)

SPECIAL LOW DEPOSIT FOR ALT ESC ONLY:

($400) will be made to Windstar within 7 days of registering on credit card provided

Located on Deck 3, 277 Square Feet

SP Cabins: 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309

Travel in stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 277 square feet. Bed with Luxurious Linens, Waffle Weave Robe and Slippers, Flat Screen TV with DVD player, Fully-Stocked Mini Bar/Refrigerator, Safe, Direct Dial Phone, L’Occitane Bath Amenities, Wi-Fi (internet cards can be purchased at reception), Fresh Flowers, Fresh Fruit, Granite vanity with magnifying mirror, Walk-in closet and ample drawer space, Bathroom with granite countertop, full-size tub, and shower, Hair Dryers and 110/220 outlets.

$4,970

Deposit:$100

Past Trip

Oceanview Suite (Cat S)

Cruise Fare $4535 Previous passengers:

NDA's $425 $4535 + NDA $425 + Taxes $200 = $5160

NDA's $425

Taxes $200

TOTAL $5160 Standard 15% Deposit ($774)

SPECIAL LOW DEPOSIT FOR ALT ESC ONLY:

($400) will be made to Windstar within 7 days of registering on credit card provided

Located on Deck 4, 277 Square Feet

SP Cabins: 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407

$5,160

Deposit:$100

Past Trip

Oceanview Suite (Cat S1)

Cruise Fare $4630 Previous passengers:

NDA's $425 $4630 + NDA $425 + Taxes $200 = $5255

Taxes $200

TOTAL $5255 Standard 15% Deposit ($788)

SPECIAL LOW DEPOSIT FOR ALT ESC ONLY:

($400) will be made to Windstar within 7 days of registering on credit card provided

Located on Deck 4, 277 Square Feet

SP Cabins: 408, 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, 415, 416, 417, 418, 419, 420, 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428, 429, 446, 447, 448, 449, 450, 451

$5,255

Deposit:$100

Past Trip

Star Oceanview Suite (Cat SS1)

Cruise Fare $4725 Previous passengers:

NDA's $425 $4725 + NDA $425 + Taxes $200 = $5350

Taxes $200

TOTAL $5350 Standard 15% Deposit ($802)

SPECIAL LOW DEPOSIT FOR ALT ESC ONLY:

($400) will be made to Windstar within 7 days of registering on credit card provided

Located on Deck 4,5 and 6 277 Square Feet

SP Cabins: 430, 432, 433, 434, 435, 436, 437, 438, 439, 440, 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 542, 543, 544, 545, 638, 639

$5,350

Deposit:$100

Past Trip

Sep 21, 2022 Depart USA
Sep 21, 2022 Depart USA
Fly from your home to Istanbul
Depart your home town to Istanbul Turkey. With many airlines now servicing Istanbul, the options are almost endless. Come in a couple days early or stay a few days later to get the FULL experience of this amazing city!

Most flights will arrive the next day, afternoon.

Overnight: on plane
Read more
Thur, Sep 22 Arrive
Thur, Sep 22 Arrive
Istanbul, Turkey (Constantinople)
Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey!

Ah, Constantinople, Queen of Cities and the Door to Happiness. Istanbul is the only city in the world built on two continents—Europe and Asia—and its appeal is truly universal.

The Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans all ruled their empires from here, leaving behind some of their finest monuments and a fascinating blend of cultures. Visit the harem at Topkapi Palace, where the clatter of silver soles once warned concubines of the approaching sultan. Admire the Iznik tiles and stained glass windows of the Blue Mosque, and the mystical light bathing the nave of Hagia Sofia. Shop the Grand Bazaar for a coffee cezve, magic lamp, embroidered slippers, or hand-woven kilim. Temper a tiny cup of potent Turkish coffee with bites of sweet lokum (Turkish delight).

Link to Excursion Options for Istanbul (Click here)

Options:

Istanbul: Byzantine Treasures & Hotel Transfer

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Full Day Van & Guide

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Half Day Car & Guide

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Half Day Van & Guide

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Full Day Car & Guide

Istanbul: Byzantine Hippodrome, St. Sophia, Grand Bazaar & Airport Transfer

Istanbul: Highlights of Istanbul & Hotel Transfer
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Fri, Sept 23 Istanbul
Fri, Sept 23 Istanbul
Explore the City and Depart on Windstar's Star Legend (5:00 PM)
Ah, Constantinople, Queen of Cities and the Door to Happiness. Istanbul is the only city in the world built on two continents—Europe and Asia—and its appeal is truly universal. The Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans all ruled their empires from here, leaving behind some of their finest monuments and a fascinating blend of cultures. Visit the harem at Topkapi Palace, where the clatter of silver soles once warned concubines of the approaching sultan. Admire the Iznik tiles and stained glass windows of the Blue Mosque, and the mystical light bathing the nave of Hagia Sofia. Shop the Grand Bazaar for a coffee cezve, magic lamp, embroidered slippers, or hand-woven kilim. Temper a tiny cup of potent Turkish coffee with bites of sweet lokum (Turkish delight).

Link to Excursion Options for Istanbul (Click here)

Options:

Istanbul: Byzantine Treasures & Hotel Transfer

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Full Day Van & Guide

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Half Day Car & Guide

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Half Day Van & Guide

Istanbul, Concierge Collection: Private Full Day Car & Guide

Istanbul: Byzantine Hippodrome, St. Sophia, Grand Bazaar & Airport Transfer

Istanbul: Highlights of Istanbul & Hotel Transfer
Read more
Sat, Sep 24 Canakkale
Sat, Sep 24 Canakkale
Antiquities, Intrigue and the Trojan War (11AM-6PM)
Steeped in antiquity and fascinating intrigue, the region and its famous Trojan War were long considered legend because of the fact that no one could find them. After approximately 4,000 years, the treasured antiquities from the legendary city have been uncovered. Enjoy the beauty of this strategically located city on the shores of both the Marmara and Aegean Seas.
Read more
Sun, Sept 25 Mykonos
Sun, Sept 25 Mykonos
Beaches, Hiking or Wandering the Whitewashed Walkways (9:00AM-9:00PM)
Wake this morning to the postcard-like scene of Mykonos, the classic Greek isle dotted with hundreds of whitewashed churches and thatch-roofed windmills, in a harbor bobbing with fishing boats and luxurious private yachts. An optional tour including a scenic ferry ride takes you back to the 6th century B.C. to the tiny island of Delos, a UNESCO site and the mythical birthplace of Apollo.

Link to Excursion Options for Mykonos (Click here)

Options:

Mykonos, Delos Discovery
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Mon, Sep 26 Santorini
Mon, Sep 26 Santorini
Black & Red Sand Beaches and the Blue Domes of Oia (8:00AM - 9:00PM)
As our yacht approaches the spectacular cliffs rising from the deep azure sea, you’ll understand the magic of this area, where some say the ruins of Atlantis remain hidden. Visit the village of Oia and see the iconic Santorini blue domes or take a guided tour of Bronze Age excavations at the UNESCO site of Akrotiri. Toast the day with a crisp, cold glass of local Assyrtiko wine.

Link to Excursion Options for Santorini (Click here)

Options:

Santorini, Concierge Collection: Full Day Private CAR + Guide

Santorini, Concierge Collection: Full Day Private VAN + Guide

Santorini, Concierge Collection: Half Day Private CAR + Guide

Santorini, Concierge Collection: Half Day Private VAN + Guide

Santorini, Concierge Collection: Sailing the Caldera

Santorini, Scenic Drive to Oia & Free Time

Santorini, The Ancient City of Akrotiri & Prehistoric Museum

Santorini, Wineries of Santorini & Oia Village
Read more
Tue, Sep 27 Bodrum
Tue, Sep 27 Bodrum
Turkish Riviera - Gateway to the Mediterranean (9:00AM - 8:00PM)
The 15th century Castle of St. Peter, built by the Crusaders, presides over the city’s dual harbors. Colorful peacocks strut their stuff trying to claim your attention, but they have nothing on the white sugar cube houses, palm-lined boulevards, and shockingly blue Aegean below. For a picture-perfect seaside playground, Bodrum offers a surprisingly rich history, or maybe it’s the other way around. Visit the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Surrender to the captivating magic of bathtub-warm waters and the Marina. Shop the bazaar for Milas cloth scarves and silver jewelry. Stroll the marina to see the other private yachts in port. (None as grand as yours, of course.)

Link to Excursion Options for Bodrum (Click here)

Options:

Bodrum, Castle & Gulet Cruise

Bodrum, Castle & Mausoleum

Bodrum, Concierge Collection: A day at the Beach Kempinski Barbaros Bay Hotel

Bodrum, Concierge Collection: Exclusive Bodrum Culinary Experience

Bodrum, Concierge Collection: Private Gulet Cruise

Bodrum, Certified One Tank Dive in Bodrums Wonderful Reefs

Bodrum, Certified Two Tank Dive in Bodrums Wonderful Reefs
Read more
Wed, Sep 28 Rhodes
Wed, Sep 28 Rhodes
Colossus, Acropolis and Unesco Site (8:00AM-7:00PM)
This gracious oasis, known as the “Island of Roses,” was home to the legendary Colossus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today it is a yachting paradise, whose shores are lined with sparkling beaches and lush green mountainsides. A scenic drive leads you through quaint villages and lemon groves to the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, standing guard over the picturesque town or to the Old City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Link to Excursion Options for Rhodes (Click here)

Options:

Rhodes, Concerge Collection: Half Day Private Van & Guide

Rhodes, Concierge Collection: Half Day Private Car & Guide

Rhodes, Concierge Collection: Full Day Private Car & Guide

Rhodes, Concierge Collection: Full Day Private Van & Guide

Rhodes, Scenic Drive to the Acropolis of Lindos

Rhodes, Concierge Collection: Introduction to Rhodian Pottery

Rhodes, Old Rhodes on Foot
Read more
Thur, Sep 29 Kusadasi
Thur, Sep 29 Kusadasi
World Renown Outdoor Museum & Dinner Under the Stars (8:00AM-11:00PM)
Few places offer such a rich combination of history and scenic beauty. In Ephesus, one of the greatest outdoor museums in the world, you’ll explore legendary sites steeped in history. Also visit the houses of Bulbul Mountain, where the roof of one forms the terrace of the next. Take in the Celsus Library twice today. First with the other tourists and then again this evening as we present our Destination Discovery Event.

Kusadasi: Evening in Ephesus
No one who has seen the magnificent Celsus Library of Ephesus will ever forget it. And Windstar guests will get a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Library – after hours during this exclusive Evening in Ephesus event.
You will walk the Marble Road to the Library that housed more than 12,000 scrolls nearly two millennia ago. Your 5-course, white-glove-service dinner will be in the courtyard in front of the Library. The spectacularly illuminated façade allows you to examine the statues in their niches and the elegant details of the frames. Dinner under the stars will be accompanied by a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra.
Just as you'd expect. No crowds. No rush. Delight in every detail.

Please note: This Destination Discovery Event has been scheduled in a way that will allow you to book and experience another shore excursion on the same day and you will not miss anything.

Link to Excursion Options for Kusadasi (Click here)

Options:

Kusadasi, Archaeological Ephesus & Museum

Kusadasi, Best of Ephesus

Kusadasi, Concierge Collection: Half Day Private VAN + Guide

Kusadasi, Ephesus and Virgin Mary's House

Kusadasi, Concierge Collection: Ephesus & Private Lunch at Sirince Village

Kusadasi, Concierge Collection: Full Day Private VAN + Guide

Kusadasi, Ephesus & Ancient Houses
Read more
Fri, Sept 30 Patmos
Fri, Sept 30 Patmos
Pure Relaxation and the Apocalypse (8:00AM - 4:00PM)
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known worldwide as the sacred island where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation, Patmos is the ideal place for nature lovers with its coastline of sheer cliffs and its volcanic soil. Highlights of Patmos include the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Holy Monastery of the Apocalypse.

The island is ideal for total relaxation at the beach or in the countryside. Swimming in the wonderfully secluded beaches of Patmos is a delight. Enjoy a day under the hot sun visiting history and in the afternoon have lunch in the seaside taverns.

Link to Excursion Options for Patmos (Click here)

Options:

Patmos, Concierge Collection: Daily Life at the Monastery of Evaggelismos

Patmos, Concierge Collection: Half Day Private Car & Guide

Patmos, Concierge Collection: Half Day Private Van & Guide

Patmos, Monastery & Cave of St John

Patmos, Spirit of Patmos
Read more
Sat, Oct 1 Myrina
Sat, Oct 1 Myrina
Desert, Mountains and Mythology (arrive 8:00AM - 1:00PM)
Lemnos is a delightful, off the beaten path island with wild mountainous geology , inland lakes (including a salt lake) and large, uncrowded, sandy beaches all along the coastline. Windsurfing is becoming increasingly popular here. Sites to see here include the Medieval Castle of Myrina, Ancient Poliochni, Ancient Kavirio and the legendary cave of Philocetes.

At the north part of the island at the Cape of Falakro, or 'Falakro', a beautiful geographical phenomenon reveals beautiful and interesting rock formations from millions of years ago. Hot volcanic lava flooded out of the depths of the earth and froze to crystal as soon as it came in contact with the sea waters. Well worth a visit which attracts many novice photographers, capturing these stunning petrified rocks.

Link to Excursion Options for Myrina (Click here)

Options:

Myrina, Concierge Collection: Discover Lemnos by 4x4

Myrina, Highlights of Lemnos

Myrina, Lemnos by Traditional Caique
Read more
Sun, Oct 2 Istanbul
Sun, Oct 2 Istanbul
Disembark Windstar's Star Legend (8:00AM)
We awake to the sights & sounds of Istanbul. We say good bye to the fabulous crew that took such good are of us, disembark the yacht and head to airport or a post trip. We bring with us all the fabulous memories we have made on this truly unique itinerary!

Until next time Windstar!

Read more

Sep 21, 2022 Depart USA

Fly from your home to Istanbul

Depart your home town to Istanbul Turkey. With many airlines now servicing Istanbul, the options are almost endless. Come in a couple days early or stay a few days later to get the FULL experience of this amazing city!

Most flights will arrive the next day, afternoon.

Overnight: on plane

Alt-Esc Travel

171 reviews

Book your next get-a-way with Alt Escape, a boutique international adventure travel company that specializes in ultra-personalized itineraries. We focus on our guests experiencing the land, the people, and the culture in the most immersive, energizing, and inspiring way possible. With decades of experience, it is a pleasure to get to know you – my guest – and help generate ideas for your ideal trip and research the unknown gems that will create the most extraordinary trip imaginable for you. Allow Alt Esc to partner with you and make your travel dreams become reality. Unlike booking websites, we go the extra mile to make sure all of your needs are met. Our promise to you is that every detail of your trip is taken care of, no question goes unanswered, and you will always receive the best value when you plan your journey with Alt-Escape. Let’s get started planning your escape! Call Today 630-222-8514!

Cabo was amazing. Not because of the city, but because of the wonderful group of people that went on the trip. I made friends I know I will have forever and some that you just know you will see again on the next adventure and can't wait for it. Thank you, Tricia, for a great trip, your enthusiasm, professionalism and kindness are top notch. You're the best!!

By Laureen S for Cabo! All Inclusive Beach Get-A-Way! on Nov 15, 2024

This was such a relaxing trip! Everything was right there and I didn't need to plan anything. The resort was great with everything included and plenty of activities to do or not. We spent one afternoon in town and then on a fabulous boat trip around the arch and even did some swimming off the boat. Tricia did an amazing job of organizing this boat trip. This get-away was just what I needed!

By Glenna C for Cabo! All Inclusive Beach Get-A-Way! on Nov 14, 2024

This trip was a combined trip with the Australia trip for me. So much beauty in NZ. The mountains and volcanoes, the wineries, the people, and great food made this another fantastic trip with Alt Esc. Tricia puts together excellent itineraries and has a great group of people who travel with her. Highly recommend.

By Roberta J for Untamed Landscapes of New Zealand on Oct 08, 2024

Just returned from another fantastic trip with Alt Esc. Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge at sunset, and seeing a show at the Sydney Opera House were a few of my favorite things for this trip, as well as holding a koala for a photo, petting a kangaroo, and watching the smallest penguins in the world cross the beach at sunset. Oh, and the whale watch! So much fun & made new friends.

By Roberta J for The Land Down Under: Australia on Oct 08, 2024

The voyage on the Star Clipper was amazing. Alt. Esc is a wonderful travel company to work with for a trip experience worth remembering. We had a great time, great food, and great fun.

By Marcheta M for Venice, Croatia, Montenegro on Jul 18, 2024

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This was my first trip with Tricia and it will not be my last. The group experience was wonderful. Tricia took care of everything and I made friends that I know I will see again. Ringing in 2024 in Paradise was magical and a memory I will never forget. Thanks Tricia and AltEscTravel!!

By Laureen S on 07 Jan, 2024

I have traveled with Tricia/Alt- Esc Travel a few times and each trip has been fantastic! She is always available to answer any questions or help in any way to make sure you have a great experience. I would say, don't hesitate to take a trip with her, you won't regret it.

By Kim B on 18 Mar, 2023

I just got back from Alt-Esc Antartica trip aboard the UM Ushuaia. I loved it. Also loved the pre trip to Buenos Aires and Ushuaia. I’d like to stay in Ushuaia longer next time. WHAT a landscape!! Holy cow. The trip was well organized, I got exactly what I paid for. I’ve travelled A LOT and there are other groups that are disorganized, end up with out enough rooms, have too many people, are are a bit of a mess. Alt-Esc is organized and you get exactly what you pay for. I love it!! I’ve now done 3 trips and I’ve signed up for two more!! Thank you Alt-Esc. I work too much and your trips really recharge me!!

By Troy L on 09 Jan, 2023

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