1-480-626-1266 info@johnpaultours.com
South American Sampler

South American Sampler

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

South American Sampler

Mexico City | Guadalupe | Teotihuacán | Santiago de Tlatelolco | Tlaxcala | Puebla | Lima | Belize City

>> Just south of the United States is a land of thriving culture and deep devotion. This trip offers the opportunity to see Central as well as South America through a Catholic lens. You will explore Mexico City and Our Lady of Guadalupe as well as the Pyramids. In Peru, your eyes will be opened to the life of an early missionary as Indian and European culture collided. The trip will end with a relaxing few days in Belize on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
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“Better than I would have ever imagined!”

–Sandra Comiptu

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to our hotel in Mexico City. Enjoy a welcome group dinner this evening. (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacán – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning, through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico- Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will have mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go to the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacán to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and overnight in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. In Tlaxcala visit the place where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. After lunch head to Puebla where we visit the Franciscan church of Puebla where the incorrupt body of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio is preserved. After arriving from Spain, he became very wealthy in agricultural business and road building. He taught the local Indians to cultivate the land and how to build agricultural tools. Late in life, Sebastian gave all of his wealth to the convent of Poor Clares, and joined the Order of St. Francis. Though already in his 70’s, he did not exempt himself from hard work and begging to support the Friars. We return to Mexico City for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mexico City – Lima, Peru
We pack our bags early and transfer to the airport and fly to Lima, Peru. Our 5 hour flight will arrive in Lima in the afternoon. The group will transfer to the hotel and then you will have free time to relax or explore at your leisure. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal with the group this evening. (B, D)

Day 5 | Lima
Today we explore all that Lima has to offer. Peru is a devout Catholic country with a stunning 90% of its residents practicing Catholicism. It is home to some of the world’s most famous Saints: Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Martin de Porres. This morning we head to the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo. This is the oldest religious site in Lima. Here is where Saint Martin de Porres practiced his faith and where the beautiful Saint Rose of Lima is buried. We will spend time in Holy Mass and prayer while reflecting on the lives of St. Rose and St. Martin. After this we head to the Plaza Mayor and visit the locals. Here you will see the historic architecture and crafted gardens. We will spend the afternoon exploring the city as a group. This evening enjoy a group dinner. (B, D).

Day 6 | Lima
This morning we head to the Sanctuary of Las Nazarenas which was constructed to honor the patron of the city, Lord of Miracles. After time for prayer, we head over to the Pucllana Temple which is home to incredible ruins. Not a far trek from the city, these ruins show the history of Lima. After visiting this site we head to the Larco Musuem which is home to many pre-Colombian artifacts. We will leisurely explore the museum and then head to Larcomar, a boardwalk situated on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We will have time to relax and enjoy lunch here while taking in the sights and sounds of the street. Without skipping a beat we are back on our tour to visit the Church of San Francisco which is home to the catacombs of Lima. Tonight we enjoy dinner in the city. (B,D)

Day 7 | Lima – Belize City
This morning we pack our bags and for the airport for our 7 hours flight to Belize City. Upon arrival we will be taken to our beach front hotel and the rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy all that God’s nature has provided. Enjoy a traditional meal with the group. (B,D)

Day 8 | Belize City
This morning we explore Belize City starting with St. John’s Cathedral. This beautiful Cathedral is situated on the Caribbean Coast representing the entrance of Catholicism to the New World. After celebrating Holy Mass we take a drive to Xunantunich which holds Ancient Mayan ruins. Upon arrival back in Belize City, the rest of the day is yours to explore the city or relax at the beach. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening. (B,D)

Day 9 | Belize City
This day is left for your enjoyment. You are free to spend the last day of this pilgrimage exploring the city, or relaxing. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with the group to share your favorite memories. (B, D)

Day 10 | Belize City – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for our flight back to the USA. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

Mexico City | Guadalupe | Teotihuacán | Santiago de Tlatelolco | Tlaxcala | Puebla | Cancún

>> The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated on December 12th. In 1999, Pope Saint John Paul II, in his homily given during the Solemn Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, his third visit to the sanctuary, declared the date of December the 12th as a Liturgical Holy Day for the whole continent. During the same visit Pope Saint John Paul II entrusted the cause of life to her loving protection, and placed under her motherly care the innocent lives of children, especially those who are in danger of not being born.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
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“The pilgrimage was amazing, the beach was second best!”

–Harriot Jame

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to your hotel in Mexico City (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacán – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico– Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will celebrate Holy Mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go to the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacán to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and over night in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. In Tlaxcala visit the place where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. After lunch head to Puebla where we visit the Franciscan church of Puebla where the incorrupt body of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio is preserved. After arriving from Spain, he became very wealthy in agricultural business and road building. He taught the local natives to cultivate the land and how to build agricultural tools. Late in life, Sebastian gave all of his wealth to the convent of Poor Clares, and joined the Order of St. Francis. Though already in his 70’s, he did not exempt himself from hard work and begging to support the Friars. We return to Mexico City for dinner and over night. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mexico City – Guadalupe – Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral – Holy Family Church (Bl. Miguel Pro) – Guadalupe
After breakfast, we will make our way to the famous main plaza of Mexico City, the Zócalo formally named the Plaza de la Constitución. We will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and see the tomb of Bishop Zumarraga, the first Bishop of Mexico, known as the Protector of Indians. As we continue our journey learning about the history of Indians, and Mexican Christians we will arrive at the Holy Family Church in Mexico City. Pray at the tomb of Blessed Fr. Miguel Pro, the Jesuit martyr who having joined the Jesuits at a young age left Mexico in 1914 due to the tremendous anti–Catholic sentiment that reigned against the people by the government. He studied in Los Gatos, California until 1915 when he was sent to seminary in Spain. In 1925 he was ordained a Priest in Belgium and returned to Mexico. During this time of persecution, churches were closed and Catholics could only practice in hiding. Padre Pro clandestinely heard confessions, celebrated Holy Mass, and anointed the sick. In 1927 Bl. Pro was wrongly accused of an assassination attempt on the Mexican President. Moments before his execution, Blessed Fr. Miguel Pro forgave his executioners, and with his arms spread in the form of a cross he cried out ‘Viva Cristo Rey!’ This afternoon again visit Our Lady of Guadalupe with time for prayer and reflection. Tonight we enjoy a farewell dinner together before returning to the hotel for overnight. (B, D)
Option: Return to USA or Fly to Cancún for a few days of relaxation

Day 5 | Mexico City – Cancún
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Mexico City for our flight to Cancún. After a short 2 hour flight arrive in the beach resort city of Cancún wher e we are transferred to our all–inclusive beach get– away resort. Enjoy the beach for the next few days! (B, D)

Day 6 and 7 | Cancún All–Inclusive Resort (Wyndham Maya, Royal Sands, or similar)
Enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

Day 8 | Cancún departure for USA
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Cancún for our flight home. (B)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Enjoy an additional 3 nights at your all– inclusive resort!

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Introduction to the History of Catholicism in Mexico

Introduction to the History of Catholicism in Mexico

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Introduction to the History of Catholicism in Mexico

Mexico City | Guadalupe | Teotihuacan | Tlaxcala | Ocotlán | Cholula | San Francisco Acatepec | Puebla | Tula | Queretaro | San Miguel Allende | Guanajuato | Taxco | Cancún

>> The history of Catholicism in Mexico is fascinating; starting with Spanish Missionaries arriving in the 16th century, to the more recent Reform War of the 19th century. Come here to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe and listen to our historian guide share the culture and history of the local people. Past President of Mexico Porfirio Díaz once said “Without its religion, Mexico is irretrievably lost.” A recent census in Mexico reveals 82% of its population is Catholic!

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“Let's do this again asap!"

–Gwendolyn W.

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to the hotel in Mexico City (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacan – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning, through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico– Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will celebrate Holy Mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacan to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and overnight in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Ocotlán – Cholula – Santa María Tonantzintla – San Francisco Acatepec – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. We visit Ocotlán to see the image of Our Lady burnt into a tree trunk. In Cholula we see Mexico’s largest pyramids, and the church of San Francisco Acatepac with its fantastic façade and encrusted spiral columns. Continue to Puebla for overnight. (B, D)

Day 4 | Puebla – Tula – Queretaro
After a filling breakfast we head to the Cathedral and Rosary Chapel. In the supervision of the Dominicans, we will be awed by the architecture and design here. Enjoying the warm weather and sun we continue to Tula, home to the gigantic Toltec Warrior stone columns. We continue our history lesson of Chichen Itza, Hidalgo, Quetzacoatl and the Aztec Empire. This evening we arrive in Queretaro for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 5 | San Miguel Allende – Guanajuato
This morning we take an excursion to San Migeul Allende in Guanajuato. This town attracts thousands of foreign artists, writers, and tourists. The well preserved historic center is home to World Heritage Sites and full of bright colored buildings seemingly built upon one another when seen from a panoramic view. Spend some time in the parish church of San Miguel and enjoy fine Mexican dining. (B, D)

Day 6 | Taxco – Mexico City
Today we travel through the mountains to Taxco, home to some of the World’s finest silver. Mining here began during pre–Hispanic times and continues to produce world class silver pieces. See the stunning main altar of the Santa Prisca Church, celebrate Holy Mass and enjoy lunch before returning to Mexico City for overnight before we head to Cancún for a few days of rest on the beach. (B, D)
Option: Return to USA or Fly to Cancún for a few days of relaxation
Day 7 | Mexico City – Cancún
After breakfast we head to the airport in Mexico City for our flight to Cancún. After a short 2 hour flight arrive in the beach resort city of Cancún where we are transferred to our all-inclusive beach get-away resort. Enjoy the beach for the next few days! (B, D)

Days 8 & 9 | Cancún
Enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Exploration of the Yucatán

Exploration of the Yucatán

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Exploration of the Yucatán

Cancún | Valladolid | Chichén Itzá | Izamal | Mérida | Playa del Carmen

>> Mexico is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It also serves as a gateway to the ancient world of New Spain. This program offers a glimpse into both of these wonders. Join us on this tour of Mexico and find yourself lost in a world of vibrant color and rich culture.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“A surreal and blessed experience, Thank you”

– Ramona McKenzie

Day 1 | USA – Cancún
Depart the USA on your international flight in the morning and arrive to the oasis of Cancún by afternoon. This first day we will have time to relax after our journey. Enjoy welcome group dinner this evening and rest up for an exciting week. (D)

Day 2 | Cancún – Valladolid – Chichén Itzá
Get ready to jump into adventure. Our day starts with a drive to Chichén Itzá. We stop along the way in an old town called Valladolid where we will visit places including the main square and St. Gervasio’s Cathedral. We will also be visiting a local distillery where we can learn about the preparing process of famous agave liquor. After this small cultural experience we head to our final destination of the day, Chichén Itzá. We see the famous archaeological site including the Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Pelota Ball game court. This evening enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant in Piste. After dinner we will participate in the Light & Sound show in front of the pyramids. (B, D)

Day 3 | Chichén Itzá – Izamal – Mérida
With breakfast in our bellies we are headed to the historic town of Izamal. This “Yellow Town” has all yellow walls which were painted in colonial times. This beautiful city is home to an amazing Catholic culture. We will visit the Franciscan convent which is home to the figure of St. Mary of the Indians as well as celebrate Holy Mass in the same church as Pope Saint John Paul II. After a few hours of leisure we continue on to Mérida, which was once the wealthiest city of New Spain. Upon arrival we will explore some of the treasures of this town including Montejo Avenue, the Mérida Cathedral, the main square and the government palace. Enjoy a group dinner this evening. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mérida
Start the day with a tour of the Cacao Plantation and Museum where we learn about the importance of this plant in the pre-Columbian time. We also head to the UNESCO Heritage Site of Uxmal, the ancient city that “was built three times”. After a morning on land we change transportation to a boat and travel from Celestún to view flamingos in their natural habitat. This evening is free for your leisure with dinner on your own. (B)

Day 5 | Mérida – Playa del Carmen
We leave this rich city for scenic beaches as we make our way to Playa del Carmen. Upon arrival you are free to relax and enjoy.

Day 6 | Playa del Carmen
Enjoy this day relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

Day 7 | Playa del Carmen – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Cuba and the Yucatán

Cuba and the Yucatán

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Cuba and the Yucatán

Havana | Trinidad | Varadero | Cancún | Valladolid | Mérida | Campeche

>> Explore the best of the Caribbean with this well designed pilgrimage to the tropical oasis of Cuba and the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Your journey starts in Havana, an old city with complex history and vibrant culture. It then carries you around the island and over to the Yucatán Peninsula, an area of the world where Catholicism and Mayan culture collided. Come explore our beautiful faith in beautiful places.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“I want to go to Cuba!”

–Amy Savison

Day 1 | USA – Havana
Depart from the USA on your flight to Havana, Cuba. Upon arrival your guide will meet you and the group will transfer to the hotel. Enjoy a traditional Cuban meal with the group as a welcome to this beautiful island. (D)

Day 2 | Havana
We start our tour of Havana this mor ning. Havana’s long and complex history along with the scenic views makes it the most interesting city in the Caribbean. Founded in 1519 by the Spaniards, it is home to a colonial old town, beautiful homes, rich palaces, a magnificent Cathedral, and many unique churches; we will visit all of these. This afternoon we will go to the waterfront to view the awe inspiring ocean and tropical accessories. Dinner and overnight in Havana. (B, D)

Day 3 | Havana
After breakfast, this day is free to you. Take this time to visit some of the places that brought you to Cuba. Feel free to ask our guide about the best sites and restaurant recommendations. (B)

Day 4 | Havana – Trinidad
We are leaving the beautiful center of Havana for a more tranquil pace of life in Trinidad, the oldest Spanish settlement in the Caribbean. Founded in 1514, it is now a peaceful, tropical city with fascinating colonial buildings and religious architecture. The drive across the island grants the opportunity to get acquainted with the structure of the island. Upon arrival we will celebrate Holy Mass and tour the local sites. Enjoy a group dinner this evening. (B, D)

Day 5 | Trinidad – Varadero
This morning we continue with a half day tour of this spectacular city. After lunch on your own we board our coach to travel north again. We find ourselves in the tropical paradise of Varadero. This majestic beach town will be our home for the next couple of days. This evening, enjoy a gr oup dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 6 | Varadero
Today is left to your personal enjoyment. Relax on the beach, take a long walk through the city, or find a quiet chapel to pray. Feel free to talk with your guide for suggestions. (B)

Day 7 | Varadero – Havana – Cancún – Valladolid
After our last Cuban breakfast we board our coach and transfer to the inter national airport in Havana which will take us to our next destination, Mexico! We arrive in Cancún in the afternoon and board our coach to drive to Valladolid. We rest here and enjoy our first taste of Mexican cuisine tonight. (B, D)

Day 8 | Valladolid – Chichén Itzá – Valladolid
This morning we tour Valladolid where we will visit the main square and St. Gervasio’s Cathedral. We will also be visiting a local distillery where we can learn about the preparing process of famous agave liquor. After this cultural experience we head to our final destination of the day, Chichén- Itzá. We see the famous archaeological site including the Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Pelota Ball game court. This evening enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant in Piste. After dinner we will participate in the Light & Sound show in fr ont of the pyramids. (B, D)

Day 9 | Valladolid – Izamal – Mérida
After breakfast we head to the historic town of Izamal. This “Yellow Town” has all yellow walls which were painted in colonial times. This beautiful city is home to amazing Catholic culture. We will visit the Franciscan convent which is home to the figure of St. Mary of the Indians as well as celebrate Holy Mass in the same church as Pope Saint John Paul II. After a few hours of leisure we continue on to Mérida, which was once the wealthiest city of New Spain. Upon arrival we will explore some of the treasures of this town including Montejo Avenue, the Mérida Cathedral, the main square and the government palace. Enjoy a group dinner this evening. (B, D)

Day 10 | Mérida – Campeche
This morning we head down the road to Campeche, a city-fortress fortified by walls which were used to ward off pirates. We visit the old town and its monumental Cathedral of the 17th century as well as stroll along a boulevard that stretches along the Gulf of Mexico for miles. This afternoon we leave the city to explore the dense jungles of the Yucatán in Edzny. This evening return to Campeche for overnight. (B, D)

Day 11 | Campeche – Cancún – USA
We enjoy our last breakfast in this breath taking peninsula and drive back to Cancún for our flights back home. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com