Tour Manager Spotlight

Recently we spoke with Patti Pernini, one of Mayflower’s most experienced Tour Managers for our Tournament of Roses Parade deluxe escorted holiday. We asked Patti to share with us some of her most memorable moments with her travelers on this wonderful holiday…

How many years have you participated as a Tour Manager on the Tournament of Roses Parade?
I did my first Rose Parade tour in 1993 and my last in 2008.

What is your favorite part of the Tournament of Roses Parade tour?
The first time I saw the Glory of Christmas in the famous Crystal Cathedral. It is a spectacular presentation featuring elaborate costumes, live animals, flying angels, music by the London Symphony and a myriad of special effects. I thought it was the most spectacular pageant I had ever seen. I still do.

Please share with us your most favorite memories of the past Tournament of Roses Parade tours.
The year we had Giselle McKenzie as our star performer on New Years Eve. She has always been one of my favorites (I was a big Hit Parade fan) and her 90 minute show featuring songs and stories was very nostalgic and a perfect way to bring in the New Year for me.

And the New Year 2000 - The Millennium year was extra special. We were all allowed to bring a significant other with us to the Rose Parade Tour so we could end the century and bring in the new one with loved ones by our sides. Everything and everyone was especially festive that year as we were all experiencing a once in a lifetime milestone together.

What would you tell those who will be attending the 120th Tournament of Roses Parade with Mayflower Tours?
Remember to bring your camera to capture the incredible color of the floats before and during the parade. Plus, and most importantly, ringing in the new year with your traveling companions will be filled with memories that you will want to share with others.

What a great holiday this will be!