St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry City
Pilgrimage to Fatima with Rev. Fr. Paul Farren
This 6-day escorted pilgrimage includes return flights with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Lisbon, private group transfers, staying in a central 4*Hotel, all meals & local excursions included.
19 - 24 October 2024
£770 per pilgrim
£150 - Single Room Supplement
Overview
Rev. Fr. Paul Farren Adm, extends a warm welcome to all pilgrims wishing to join the Cathedral on their pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima; Queen of the Rosary.
The Shrine is the answer to the call of Our Lady of the Rosary, already alluded to on August 13, 1917 and expressly asked in the apparition of October 13, of that year to Lucia de Jesus, Francisco Marto and Jacinta Marto: «I want to tell you that a chapel is to be built here in my honour. I am the Lady of the Rosary». The little chapel was constructed in 1919 in the place of the apparitions of 1917 at the Cova da Iria and, since then, the place of the Shrine was built up, in response to a significant inflow of pilgrims.
This pilgrimage/cultural break will visit the principal places associated with the Apparitions in Fatima & will include visits to the church of the Eucharistic Miracle in Santarem & the seaside resort of Nazare. A paid optional full-day excursion to Lisbon will include the birthplace of St Anthony in Lisbon, the Sanctuary of Christ the King, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Monastery of Jerónimos.
This tour includes flights, transfers, excursions, services of a travel consultant and 5-night’s full-board accommodation in Fatima. Wine served with meals.
Whats included in this tour
- Return flights from Dublin to Lisbon with Aer Lingus
- 5-nights 4*hotel accommodation on a full-board basis (14 meals including wine). 3 min walk to the Shrine.
- Luxury coach transfers to & from your hotel
- 1 suitcase per passenger not exceeding 20 kg & 1 small item of hand-luggage
- Fully escorted & guided tours by an Anam Cara Travel consultant
- Excursions to Valinhos / Aljustrel and Parish Church, Monastery of Alcobaça & Nazare.
- Guided visit of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima
- All local taxes & tolls including ATOL Protection
Whats not included in this tour
- Return coach transfers from St Eugene's Cathedral of Derry to Dublin Airport - Price to be confirmed; payable directly to Parish Office
- Travel Insurance - We have not included Travel Insurance in this package priced at £70.00 (Adult) / £35 (under 16 yrs)
- Single room Supplement - £150 (limited availability!)
- Full day sight-seeing tour to Lisbon City, including Church / birthplace of St Anthony, the Monastery of Jeronimos & the Statue of Christ the King (payable locally)
- Lunch meal on Wednesday 23 October
- Elevator to the base of the Christ the King statue - €5
- Gratuities for coach driver & hotel staff (Group leader will advise)
- Additional suitcases (if required)
ITINERARY
PLEASE NOTE: This is a sample itinerary. The final itinerary will be sent by post 3-weeks prior to departure (Flight times are accurate as of March 2024).
Coach transfers from Parish to Dublin Airport (collection times TBC) – arranged by the Parish.
Morning – Flight departure at 07:45am / arrival into Lisbon at 10:45am.
Upon arrival the group will be welcomed by an Anam Cara guide and transferred by luxury coach to Fatima. Upon arrival in Fatima, lunch will be served in the hotel before some time to relax & refresh after the early start! The group will join-in the celebration of the Opening Mass of the pilgrimage before dinner in hotel. Evening to relax in Hotel.
MEALS – Lunch & Dinner
Morning – After breakfast, join for a guided tour of the sanctuary domain visiting the tombs of the visionaries and the museum followed by a group photo.
Afternoon – After lunch, the group will pray the Stations of the Cross which lead to the village where the three visionaries lived during the Apparitions. Visit their homesteads & the apparition site of the Angel of Portugal. If time permits, we will visit a hypermarket where religious goods are manufactured
Evening – After evening meal in the hotel, the group will participate in the torchlight procession.
Meals – B, L & D
Morning – Morning Mass at the Shrine then free time to relax.
Afternoon – After lunch, excursion to either the town of Santarem to visit the Church of St Stephen (Eucharistic Miracle) or the Monastery of Alcobaça (UNESCO Heritage site). The visit will be determined closer to the date (depending on opening times). The excursion will continue to the seaside resort of Nazare. Guided visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Nazareth. Some free time to relax before returning to Fatima for a Port tasting opportunity prior to our evening meal.
Evening – After evening meal, opportunity to participate in the torchlight procession.
Meals – B, L & D
After Holy Mass at the Shrine, a free day to relax or visit the numerous museums in the area. The tour representative will help assist in planning visits during your free day. Evening meal in Hotel.
Meals – B, L & D
OPTIONAL FULL DAY EXCURSION or FREE DAY IN FATIMA
After breakfast, experience a captivating full-day excursion from Fatima to the vibrant capital city of Portugal. After a leisurely 1.5 hr transfer we begin with a visit to the birthplace of St. Anthony, located in the historic heart of Lisbon. Explore the charming neighborhood where this revered saint was born and learn about his life and legacy. (PLEASE NOTE: Considerable walking now involved to access the church due to limitations on tourist coach access – some pilgrims might prefer to pay for a taxi at their own expenses).
Next, delve into the rich cultural heritage of Lisbon with a visit to the magnificent Monastery of Jeronimos. Marvel at the stunning Manueline architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with intricate carvings and ornate details. Delve into the monastery’s history, which dates back to the Age of Discovery, and admire its grandeur and significance. Here you will have free time for lunch, a perfect opportunity to indulge with some Pastel de nata, also known as Portuguese custard tart; the traditional pastry that originated in Lisbon. It consists of a flaky, buttery pastry crust filled with a creamy, egg custard filling. The custard is typically flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, giving it a rich and aromatic taste.
Continue your exploration with a stop at the iconic Tower of Belem, an emblematic symbol of Portugal’s maritime history. Built during the 16th century, this fortress stands proudly along the banks of the Tagus River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Discover the tower’s strategic importance and admire its striking Manueline architecture.
Conclude your memorable day with a visit to the Sanctuary of Christ the King, located across the river from Lisbon in the city of Almada. Marvel at the imposing statue of Christ the King, which overlooks the city and offers panoramic views of Lisbon’s skyline. Take a moment for reflection and contemplation at this iconic religious site, which serves as a symbol of faith and devotion.
NOTE: Holy Mass will be celebrated in Lisbon. The excursion price will be provide with the travel documents. Payment will be accepted locally by the guide in Euros or Sterling.
For pilgrims who prefer to remain in Fatima, your guide will provide times for Masses and suggestions on how to spend you leisure day.
Meals – B & D
Morning – After an early breakfast we depart Fatima by coach to return direct to Lisbon Airport.
Flight departure at 11:25am / arrival into Dublin Airport at 2:15pm.
Meals – Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel Cinquentenário was opened in 1967 at the time of the 50th anniversary of the Apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima, thus its name is a tribute to the event. Nowadays, with a 4-stars rating and being just 60 metres from the Shrine, a privileged location, it seeks to pass on the art of wellness and hospitality.
All rooms have been carefully equipped and prepared with:
– Air Conditioning and Central heating
– Telephone with direct line to the outside
– Satellite TV
– Individual safe
– Electronic lock
– Hairdryer
– Cosmetic mirror
– Amenities
– Free Internet access
– Free cribs
For more details, please visit www.hotelcinquentenario.com/en
FAQs
The deposit per pilgrim is £180. If you request the Travel Insurance of the Tour Operator, this must be paid alongside the deposit.
Of course! You can make installments by cash or cheque (payable to Anam Cara Travel) to the Parish Office, or by online card payment to Anam Cara Travel. Just contact us at least 48 hrs in advance so we can prepare a link for the card payment. Alternatively, you can also pay Anam Cara Travel directly by Bank Transfer – using your Unique Booking Reference when making payments.
The full balance will be requested 9-weeks prior to departure (FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024).
Travel insurance is mandatory for all pilgrimages organised by Anam Cara Travel!
Travel insurance provides coverage for various unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. Without insurance, you may be financially responsible for any expenses incurred due to such incidents. It is prudent to ensure your protect yourself and your investment in case of unexpected circumstances. It offers peace of mind and financial protection during your travels.
No! The travel insurance arranged by Anam Cara Travel (£70 per pilgrim) is comprehensive and created for the pilgrimage market. It is particularly beneficial to those of a senior age (we cover up to 90 years of age) and those with pre-existing medical conditions (T&C’s apply). For more details about our policy & full wording, click on the link – www.anamcaratravel.com/pilgrimages/insurance/
If you are in good health, you will be able to source insurance elsewhere at a better price. Also, many people may already have annual insurance cover or travel insurance arranged through their bank / building society or credit card.
The GHIC replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for all NI residents following the end of the Brexit transition period. It covers healthcare services for pre-existing conditions and chronic illnesses, as well as emergency medical treatment and maternity care.
The card is free of charge and can be obtained by applying through the official GHIC website or by contacting the NHS in Northern Ireland. It’s important to note that the GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance and may not cover all medical expenses or repatriation costs. Travelers are still advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance when traveling abroad.
The benefits of applying for a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) include:
Access to healthcare: A GHIC allows you to access state-provided healthcare services during temporary stays in EU countries, as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. This coverage includes necessary medical treatment for pre-existing conditions and chronic illnesses.
Emergency treatment: In the event of a medical emergency during your trip, a GHIC ensures you receive the necessary healthcare without incurring high out-of-pocket costs. This includes emergency medical treatment and maternity care.
Peace of mind: By having a GHIC, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you have access to essential healthcare services in case of unexpected illness or injury while abroad.
If you do not hold a valid UK or EU passport, you might need to apply for a Schengen Visa to visit Portugal. Application opens 3 months prior to departure. Visa application costs are paid directly by the client. UK Passport Holders must have 3 months validity after the return date (25 Jan 2025) & not have been issued prior to 25 Oct 2014.
The price is £25 per person. The payment will be collected in Fatima by your guide.
All passengers are permitted one hold luggage (maximum weight of 20 kg) and one small item of hand-luggage. You will be advised of the luggage size dimensions in your travel pack (3 weeks prior to departure).
In late October, Fatima, Portugal experiences the transition from autumn to early winter, with generally mild temperatures and changing weather patterns. Daytime temperatures typically range from around 12 to 18 degrees Evening temperatures tend to be cooler, ranging from 6 to 12 degrees. While it’s not as rainy as earlier in the month, you should still be prepared for some precipitation. It’s advisable to pack an umbrella or waterproof jacket just in case.
Overall, late October in Fatima can still be a pleasant time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
Whilst in Fatima, you are under no obligation to participate in all activities. You are invited to join whenever you wish or make your own time for private prayer / relaxation. Excursions are included but optional.
By packing a combination of lightweight layers, waterproof outerwear, and comfortable walking shoes, you’ll be well-prepared for the varying weather conditions in Fatima during late October. It is best to dress in layers, which can be removed to suit weather conditions. The Shrine request modest dress; no sleeveless shirts. If wearing shorts, ensure your knees are covered. Take protection from with sun, remember to pack a sunhat and a light umbrella.
With exception to the lunch meal on Wednesday 23 October, all meals are covered whilst in Fatima (starting with lunch on arrival day and ending with breakfast on departure day – 14 meals in total). Meals are normally served as self-service buffet. Wine is included with all meals. The group will eat in the Hotel restaurant each day. If you have a special diet or allergy, you must inform your group leader immediately.
No, this is not provided. You might consider taking a light travel kettle in your luggage along with a supply of Irish tea or your preferred coffee.
No, a porter service is not included at our hotel. Upon arrival at the hotel, your luggage will be unloaded and placed at the side of the coach or as near to the hotel reception. If you will have difficulty managing your luggage, please request assistance from your guide.
The following books are available to order online via Amazon or Google Play:
- What happened at Fatima (Book by Leo Madigan)
- Fatima in Lucia’s Own Words (Book by Sr. Lucia)
- Fatima for Today: The Urgent Marian Message of Hope (Book by Andrew Apostoli)
