On track for a Grand Canyon New Year's

Natural and man-made wonders highlight "New Year's at the Grand Canyon," a holiday excursion featuring a New Year's Eve gala at the canyon and a gambol in Las Vegas. It all begins in Chicago Dec. 28 when Amtrak's Southwest Chief departs for Winslow, Ariz.

From there, a day of sightseeing through the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest ends in Williams, Ariz. The next morning, the Grand Canyon Railway transports travelers to the South Rim for a two-night stay at Maswik Lodge. After welcoming in 2008, the group moves on to Las Vegas for the finale, a three-night stay at Bellagio Resort.

The $1,995 fee covers hotel accommodations, some meals and all sightseeing, as well as coach seating on the train, motor-coach travel and some gratuities. Airfare back to Chicago Jan. 5 costs $99 extra. Sleeping car accommodations aboard the Southwest Chief are additional.

Offered by Uncommon Journeys-Train Holidays, this New Year's getaway can also be tailored to begin and end in California. (800-543-2846; www.trainholidays.com, click on Destinations, then on New Year's Grand Canyon)

Hank Aaron on deck

Baseball legend Hank Aaron will be back on deck aboard the Crystal Serenity as the vessel makes its Jan. 4-19 Panama Canal crossing between Miami and Los Angeles. Along the way, "Hammerin' Hank" will share his achievements, professional milestones and life experiences, hosting a question-and-answer session and posing for photographs.

With ports of call in Grand Cayman, Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico (including a maiden call at Puerto Chiapas, Mexico), the cruise starts at $4,495 for a deluxe stateroom and $5,655 for a stateroom with veranda, plus $400 in fees. Gratuities and shore excursions are additional.

Aaron's lecture series is part of the Crystal Visions Enrichment Program, which brings noted speakers aboard all cruises. (888-722-0021; www.crystalcruises.com/cruise_itinerary.aspx?cid8301

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