 Buda Castle viewed from the Danube River. If you’re one to check UNESCO World Heritage Sites off your travel bucket list, you’ll want to add a Danube River cruise to your calendar. This storied waterway winds through two capital cities overflowing with UNESCO destinations: Budapest and Vienna. The historic hotspots are certainly not limited to these two cities, however. There are so many UNESCO sites along the Danube River, in fact, that it was hard to narrow down my favorites for this article! Consider this a taste of the best and use this as a jumping-off point for your explorations. Quick Primer You may know you want to see them, but what exactly makes a UNESCO World Heritage Site? These designated sites are intended to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of a people’s culture and heritage. There are intangible UNESCO designations, too - think coffee culture in Vienna. The United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has created this list to protect these important places and monuments around the world in the hopes of driving awareness and conservation. Danube UNESCO Sites Fisherman's Bastion in the Buda Castle District is the perfect spot to get a full view of the Pest side of the city. Budapest, Hungary This lovely capital city has a string of UNESCO sites to visit, including a generalized one: the banks of the Danube River itself. Conde Nast Traveler has also ranked this as one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the planet. The view of the Danube is splendid, with the actual UNESCO stretch lying between Margaret Bridge and Liberty Bridge. Beyond the river banks, the city’s other two cultural heritage sites are Buda Castle Hill on the west side and Andrassy Avenue on the east side. Explore the medieval, Baroque and 19th-century architecture of Buda Hill, as well as the Buda Castle, which houses the Hungarian National Gallery. Also on the Buda side of the river, find Gellert Hill, with The Statue of Liberty and the Citadel, as well as the Gellert Bath. On the Pest side, don’t miss the Parliament building, the Neo-Renaissance Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and the Art Nouveau Gresham Palace. I was fortunate to see the Vienna Opera House and then also have time to explore with a break for the perfect cup of cappuccino all in the same afternoon! Vienna, Austria In addition to its convivial coffee culture, Vienna is home to an entire historic center that is protected by UNESCO. Don’t miss the Vienna State Opera, the Hofburg Palace (home of the Habsburgs) and the gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Snap photos of the Baroque-style Imperial Palace with its iconic cupolas, as well as the Museum of Fine Arts. As for that delightful coffee culture, it embodies Viennese gemütlichkeit, a general sense of friendliness and geniality. You’ll feel it, too, as you sip your coffee of choice at Cafe Ritter, one of the city’s oldest and most elegant cafes.  The Old Stone Bridge and St. Peter's Cathedral in Regensburg are both protected by UNESCO. Regensburg, Germany Take a walking tour of the Old Town of Regensburg on the northernmost bend of the Danube River - it is the only authentically preserved large medieval city in Germany. Feel transported back in time as you stroll the pedestrian-friendly alleyways winding through this part of this Bavarian town. Marvel at historic structures that span two millennia, from Roman to Romanesque to Gothic styles. The market, city hall, cathedral and patrician residences and towers convey the rich history of the area, as one of the centers of the Holy Roman Empire that turned to Protestantism. Next week, we’ll turn to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites you must see along the Rhine River, followed by a look at the Wachau Valley in Austria, which is worth a visit all on its own. Ready to go? Let’s chat.
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 The Moselle River winding through Germany. One of the most compelling aspects of a Europe river cruise is the chance to step into the storied history of the region. There are myriad trails along the Moselle River, in particular, that land you at majestic castles or alongside terraced vineyards, to striking viewpoints and through medieval villages. Here are some of my favorite ways to relive history along the Moselle.  A hike to Landshut Castle or a Moselle Bike Tour are both great options when visiting Bernkastel. Bernkastel & Landshut Castle Disembark in postcard-perfect Bernkastel along the Moselle River for a delightful hike up to the ruins of Landshut Castle. First, take time to tour the vibrant Old Town center with its medieval and Renaissance architecture, historic Market Square, the colorful Town Hall and the many half-timbered houses. Don’t miss the Spitzhäuschen (Pointed House), known by its distinctive shape (typical of a Moselle winegrower’s residence); a wide second floor hangs over a thin base, while a tall pointed roof at the pinnacle points to the sky. Step through the Graacher Tor, the last of the eight gates that allowed entrance into the old town walls, then begin the short hike through grape vines and grassy knolls to the castle ruins, which serve as a scenic lookout over the Moselle River. The 13th-century castle you see today was built on top of an ancient Roman fortress that dates back to the 4th or 5th century. The castle stood until the late 17th century, when a fire transformed it into the current ruins. Extensive renovation work is currently undergoing. There is a restaurant within the castle walls, if you need to refuel after your day of exploration. Moselsteig Trail While the entire Moselsteig Trail is 226 miles long, you can certainly tackle just a couple miles and be more than impressed. Twenty-four stages in all follow the Moselle from the point where France, Germany and Luxembourg meet, to Koblenz, where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet. If it’s vineyard views and impressive castles you’re after, the Moselsteig delivers. Wander into side valleys and picnic beside quiet streams. And, most importantly, stop in villages and towns along the way to taste one of the gems of Germany’s oldest wine region, the superb Riesling. Certified as one of the country’s Quality Walking Trails, the route is well signposted and maintained.  A beautiful view of Cochem with Reichsburg (Cochem) Castle rising above the town. Cochem Of the numerous picturesque villages along the Moselle, one of the favorites is imposing Reichsburg Castle, known for its colorful gingerbread architecture lining the cobblestone streets of Old Town. I suggest a guided hike to the castle, which is believed to be about one thousand years old. It was burned nearly to the ground by French troops in 1689 and it wasn’t until 1868 that a wealthy Berlinite bought the castle and rebuilt it in its current Neo-Gothic style. Step back in time to a different era altogether - the Cold War - at the Bundesbank Bunker. This former secret bunker, built to withstand a nuclear war, was one of Germany’s best-kept secrets for decades, storing 15 billion DM during the Cold War. If you’re a history buff hoping to combine stories of the past with upscale river cruising, let’s chat!
 The Bloemenmarkt is the world's only floating flower market and is open year-round. Fall is such a festive time, with that back-to-school vibe, autumn leaves breaking out in vibrant displays of color and the hint of the holidays around the corner. If you’ve chosen to take a river cruise along the Rhine during the fall season, you’re in luck. There are countless ways the towns and cities along the river light up during this time of year, from farmers' markets overflowing with the bounty of the growing season, to wine harvest festivals and music events. Here are a few of my favorites! Pure Markt (April - October, also December) All through the summer and into the fall, and again in December, the Pure Markt in Amsterdam draws locals and visitors alike to its location at Amstelpark. Each second Sunday of the month, shop for Dutch produce, international delicacies and Netherlands-made souvenirs, as well as vintage, designer and gift items. Be sure to come with an appetite - about 70 percent of the market’s stalls are food-related. Sample authentic Chinese dumplings at Maggie’s Jiaozi - perhaps the minced pork with garlic chives from her own garden - or succulent green or umami oysters at Zilt en Zalig. Waterlooplein Markt (Monday - Saturday, 9:30 AM - 6 PM) You needn’t even leave Amsterdam for the next exciting market experience. This oldest and most famous flea market in the city is more than 130 years old. Go treasure hunting through 300 stalls, perhaps finding antique jewelry you can’t live without or a vintage camera. Of course, like any popular market, there is plenty of food to choose from. Look for food vendors along the edges of the market. A wonderful time to visit Basel is during the Food & Wine Fair. Basel Wine Fair (typically held last week of October) If you’re a wine lover, don’t miss this renowned wine fair in charming Basel, showcasing approximately 3,500 wines from 23 nations. Sample vintages from Armenia, Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland and more. If you prefer whiskey to wine, there are plenty of drams to try, plus more than enough gourmet bites to satisfy any palate. International Festival for Jazz and More (early October - mid-November) The delightful university town of Heidelberg, Germany, is home to this seven-week jazz extravaganza. It’s the biggest and most important jazz festival in the country, showcasing well-established musicians, rising stars and many styles of music in addition to jazz, which illuminates the crossover between jazz, international music, electronica and hip-hop. Throughout the events, you can attend concerts and master classes that cater to all styles of music lovers. Hunsrück Potato Festival Spend the second and third week of October celebrating the potato through culinary and regional events organized by restaurants and towns in the Saar-Hunsrück region. Try traditional recipes that have been handed down through the generations, including the most famous one of all: Schales. Grated potatoes are fried in a Dibbe (cast-iron pan) until a delectable crust forms at the bottom, then flipped over. You’ll find everything potato you can imagine on the menu, including steamed and mashed spuds, potato cake, soups, potato hash, potato sausages and stuffed dumplings. Sound savvy and call a “potato” a “Grumbiere,” the local word for it, which roughly translates to “ground pear (looks a bit like a potato and grows underground). Ready to experience local life on the Rhine at one of these lively festivals? Let’s chat.
 Cruising through the Rhine Gorge during this wine cruise was an experience I will never forget. One of my more memorable cruises was designated a “wine cruise.” For the oenophiles among you, that will certainly sound enticing. But what exactly does it mean? In our case, we were joined by vineyard owners who served their own wine and hosted wine tastings right on the ship, while also experiencing the wines of the region. Delightful! Throughout a wine cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to get off the ship and explore the wineries and wine hamlets along the famous rivers of Europe, while also being treated to wine education and gourmet food that pair well with the local vintages. You might sail through the northern and southern Rhone Valley (tasting Hermitage, Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Cotes -du-Rhone), while also tasting the wines of your host winemaker (for example, a Sonoma County couple from Petaluma Gap wineries, an APA within Sonoma). It’s the best of all wine worlds! Wine tasting on a perfect summer day in Rüdesheim or a downpour in Strasbourg -- it's all a great experience! Wine the Austrian Way While there are many wine-specific sailings and experiences from which to use in Europe, one particular one stuck out to me. For anyone who’s a fan of Grüner Veltliners and Rieslings, this is a must. During this immersive excursion, guests are introduced to the legendary Heurigers (rustic wine taverns) of Austria, where not only will they have the chance to sit back, relax and sip local wine, but to also soak up the regional ambiance. Throughout this fun, festive evening, local winemakers serve their home-brewed, seasonal vintages, by the glass or in .75-liter bottles called bouteillens. Try Schankweine, tapped from a barrel; Sturm, fermenting grape juice; or Staubiger, a more bitter, almost-fermented grape juice). The theme of the Heuriger is coziness - what the Austrians call “Gemutlichkeit” (similar to Hygge in Denmark and Norway). Soak up the wine with salads, breads, roasts, cheese and sausage in typical Austrian culinary style. And, of course, there’s music, from guitars and accordions, to violins and zinthers. How do you know if you’ve stumbled upon a proper Heuriger? Look for the word “Ausg’steckt” on a sign out front and pine and fir branch decoration. You’ll find some of the liveliest Heurigers in Vienna’s 19th district, which is the wine helmet of Grinzing, while the more relaxing Heurigers are in nearby Nussdorf. My friends and I enjoying wine tasting onboard the AmaSiena. Members of the crew served us during the Wine Tasting 101 lecture. Exclusive Wine Experiences Premier cruise lines pull out all the corks (pun intended) when showcasing the wines of a particular region on a themed cruise. A few of the more notable inclusions I’ve seen are:
Where to Wine Of course, within Europe, you’ll have a wide range of choices, from the XXX to the XXX, but think off the continent as well for your wine cruise. Consider the Mississippi River, the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest and the Mekong River in Vietnam. Before heading out, brush up on your wine knowledge of the region, perhaps hosting your own little wine party with wines from that area. And don’t forget to invite your oenophile friends along on the cruise - it’s all the more fun with other wine lovers aboard! Ready to sip while you sail? Let’s chat.
 Place Kleber is a not-to-be-missed destination during the holiday season. If you’re one of those people who can’t get enough of the holidays, with all the festivities, lights, music, treats and general merriment that comes along with the season, Strasbourg is for you. This postcard-perfect city in France’s Alsace region has an enchanting blend of French and German influence, thanks to its borderline location. And, there’s a spectacular Christmas market, to boot! Here’s why I'm smitten with the capital of the Alsace region and what you can’t miss, particularly during the holidays. La Petite France District Seemingly stolen from the pages of a storybook, this UNESCO World Heritage section of town is delightful, particularly in November and December. Wander the labyrinthian streets past the Saint-Thomas Church, known by its two massive Romanesque bell towers; the Tanners’ House along the water’s edge, tucked between other medieval, half-timbered buildings, and the Insta-worthy Ponts Couverts (Covered Bridges), three bridges in succession over the Ill River and dominated by 14th-century towers and medieval rampart ruins. It was impossible for me to get the entire cathedral in one photo. It's massive and incredible. Strasbourg Cathedral This outstanding example of Gothic architecture sits on the former site of an 11th-century Romanesque cathedral. The crypt and former footprint remain; the spire of the current structure was completed in 1439. Within the incredible ornamental and detailed cathedral, be sure to visit the nave with its 12th- and 14th-century stained-glass windows, huge organ and Renaissance astronomical clock. The Orangerie Park Even if you’re visiting Strasbourg in the cold weather, you’ll want to stop at The Orangerie Park. Bundle up, grab a hot beverage and wander through the town’s oldest park. Watch for some of the hundreds of storks that live here, a symbol of Alsace. There’s a beautiful lake, a gourmet restaurant in the timber-framed Buerehiesel house and more to discover. Christmas Markets Strasbourg prides itself on being the “Christmas Capital” of the Alsace region and there’s really no reason they shouldn’t. The city is home to one of Europe's oldest and largest Christmas markets, which is held from the end of November through the end of the year. Stroll through more than 300 stalls, bursting with handicrafts, decorations and holiday treats. Find the market right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral. Place Kleber Right in the center of the old town, you’ll find the Place Kleber - which is also home to an enormous and fabulous lit Christmas tree in late November through December. There’s a statue of Jean-Baptiste Kleber here, in honor of the French Revolutionary War general who was born in Strasbourg in 1753. During the holidays, the Christmas tree is surrounded by pop-up markets full of art, crafts and goodies.  My stroll along the banks of the River Ill admiring the Musee Alsacien and the Petite France district. Musee Alsacien & Other History Hotspots Immerse yourself in local history at Musee Alsacien, composed of several linked 17th-century houses. Explore more than 5,000 exhibits, including the interiors of typical homes from the 18th and 19th centuries, costumes, toys, furniture and more. Over in the Newstadt district, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Place de la République, where you’ll see the late 19th-century German influence in the stately square’s architecture. Take time to visit the Palais du Rhin with its show-stopping staircase and cheerful Salon of the Empress. For a touch of Strasbourg’s more modern history, check out the official seat of the European Parliament. The Louise Weiss building, as well as four other structures, make this one of the most visible sights in the city. While I would encourage a visit to lovely Strasbourg any time of year, the holidays are really when it shines. I'm already dreaming of soft pretzels, roasted chestnuts and vin chaud (hot mulled wine) as I wander through wooden chalets full of seasonal gifts and treats.
Let’s chat about how to make that a reality for you! Click the button below to schedule a consult!  Gluten-Free Pizza is a delicious option. Can I Still Eat Well on a River Cruise If I Have Dietary Restrictions? In a word, yes! Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free or lactose-intolerant, you can still get your fill, and enjoy every bite, when you cruise. There’s no need to miss out on all the great culinary offerings onboard or onshore, where there are bound to be local delicacies you’d love to try. Today, more than ever, cruise lines are adapting to passengers’ dietary requirements and ensuring that all palates and preferences are accounted for. That said, preparation and forward thinking is key. I’ll offer some tips here for considering a cruise when you have dietary restrictions, then together we can look at your choices and determine which will be the best option for you, while satisfying your foodie predilections. Communicate on the Culinary Front As soon as you’ve decided on a destination and particular cruise line, let them know about your dietary needs. Remember, this is a ship that’s sailing away from port and as such, the boat will have a limit to its supplies and ingredients. The further ahead of time they know of your diet, the better they can address it, whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, low-/no-fat, low-/no-salt, lactose-intolerant/dairy-free, gluten- or wheat-free (celiac), low-cholesterol, diabetic, kosher or halal. Make sure you’ve communicated this to your travel advisor (who can relay to the cruise line) 45 to 90 days before departure. Pro Tip: You may think it’s easiest to just bring aboard your own items that fit your diet, but perishable items are not allowed. Nonperishables are generally okay. Gluten-Free Almond Cake made with almond meal or almond flour is a wonderful dessert served aboard AmaWaterways ships. Even More Communication is Better Take Tip #1 one step further and be in touch with the dining department as soon as you get onboard. Chat up the restaurant manager or the chef to make sure that there are notes with your passenger dining and stateroom profile. You can let your cabin steward know of any allergies, as well as the activities coordinator as often there are meals taken off the boat when you’re on an excursion. Consistency is Key If possible, choose set-seating dining so that you’re with the same waitstaff throughout the voyage. That way, you won’t find yourself having to double-check ingredients and explain your restrictions over and over to new waitstaff. But, you say … what if I want to try out all of the amazing culinary offerings on my ship? Not to worry … sometimes a chef can prepare a special meal from the dining room menu and then have it served in another venue so that you can enjoy some variety with your travel companions.  Gluten-Free Pancakes are just one of many choices that can be available. Be Bold at the Buffet The buffet is going to be your most challenging culinary conundrum. The ingredients won’t also be clearly marked and utensils may be mixed. Check in with the staff to see which dishes meet your personal dietary requirements and if you see something that fits the bill (say, gluten-free muffins), feel free to grab a few so as to have a snack for later! Even if you’re choosing items from the buffet, there are times you can ask to have a dish prepared especially for you, i.e., an omelet with olive oil instead of butter. Think Ahead About Dining Ashore As previously mentioned, be sure the activities coordinator or shore excursions desk knows of your culinary restrictions, as well. They can recommend places to eat, or do research for you, in port of call so that you’re not wasting time hunting down a restaurant for lunch that can cater to your needs. It also helps to have a physical note in the local language that details your dietary restrictions, which you can hand to the waitstaff in local restaurants. Make an Informed Decision As you’ve probably realized as you’re thinking about your cruise, there are numerous options out there. When it comes to dietary needs and restrictions, cruise lines will vary in their offerings and ability to satisfy your requirements. Together, we can sort through the choices, whether that’s looking at their websites, talking to their staff or even contacting or reading reviews by past guests to learn of their good (and not-so-good) experiences. My ultimate goal is the most enjoyable cruise experience for you - both in and out of the dining room. Let’s chat about how to find you the most appealing, and appetizing, voyage for you!
 I often find myself utilizing the cruise line's transportation, but then wandering on my own as I did this day when I hiked as far as I could up the base of Mt. Hood. Much of the appeal of a cruise, wherever in the world you sail, is the chance to get off the ship for a day and explore a new destination. But what if you’d like to do that exploring on your own, without the organized sightseeing group arranged by your cruise line? Or, what if you found an enticing independent tour you’d like to try? Not to worry. This do-it-yourself exploration is totally doable, and allowed - after all, this is your vacation! In general, your cruise manager will provide you with a map of each port. This way you can clearly find the major highlights. They’ll also be able to recommend restaurants, shops, museums, cafes, bars and more. Some cruise lines will even provide a personal audio device that you can use for individual sightseeing (pre-recorded commentary plays based on your GPS location). I recently was able to visit Riverfront Park in Spokane prior to my Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise. The pavilion is beautiful and I regret missing seeing it lit up at night. How Do Ship-Sponsored and Independent Tours Differ? Typically, an organized, ship-sponsored shore excursion consists of a walking tour, bus tour or a guided activity, whether that’s biking or some other type of activity. You would schedule this type of tour through your cruise line. Alternatively, you can choose to book an independent tour with a private guide or company. We can work together to determine if this would save you money, meet your interests and work with the timing of your ship’s departure from port. Generally, I do recommend ship-sponsored tours over booking your own. Trying to pull together the various parts of transportation, sightseeing and getting back in time isn’t usually worth the hassle, so the shore excursions offered by the cruise lines are more beneficial. However, I occasionally have a client looking for something in particular, and in that case we work together to make that experience happen. Pros and Cons If you’re a DIYer, you’ll definitely prefer to sightsee on your own, at your pace and according to your interests (even if that just means sipping a glass of local wine and soaking up village life for several hours). You’ll likely feel a more personal connection to the destination when exploring on your own. Then again, if you want to get the insider take on a new place, you might prefer the guide-led shore excursion offered by your cruise line. They’re typically locals themselves and can reveal all the historical and cultural tidbits for which you might be thirsting. Going it on your own will also mean a much smaller group - either just you and your travel partners, or perhaps a couple friends you’ve met onboard. You can even consider a private guide and car, so you can move along at your own pace. The organized shore tours are inevitably larger, but this varies by cruise line. You may run the risk of feeling like you’re being shepherded on and off a bus all day, never really delving into one attraction too deeply. Then again, if you like efficiency, these bus tours can be just the ticket. I very much enjoyed exploring the Central Market Hall in Budapest. Don’t Miss the Boat One important caveat if you choose to go DIY in your destination: Get back to the ship on time. If you’re late, you’re more than likely going to have to get to the next port of call on your own dime to meet the ship there. I highly recommend that you add the ship's contact info to your phone before taking off on your own to explore. The cruise manager will often provide their cell phone number also in case of emergency and they will help you as best as possible. What to Bring with You Whether you’re going sightseeing on your own or you’re on an organized shore excursion, be sure to bring certain items with you. These include a photo or a photocopy of your passport, a photo ID, a small amount of cash and one credit card. Practically speaking, bring along a daypack with snacks, water, a camera, a map, a hat, sunglasses, a rain jacket and/or umbrella. Many river cruise ships will have umbrellas, but I personally keep mine in my small pack so I never forget it. Leave valuables and large amounts of cash on board. Ready to explore? Click the button below and schedule a consult! I'd love to chat!
 Zurich is easily accessible from Basel either before or after a Rhine River cruise. When it comes to quintessential Swiss experiences, you really can’t beat Zurich. Effortlessly blending outdoor and indoor activities, the picturesque town - with the double bonus of both a shimmering lake and gorgeous alpine surroundings - is the best of both worlds for those travelers who seek culture and outdoor recreation. From swimming in the city’s pristine open-air swimming pools to shopping along the upscale Bahnhofstrasse, from taking a cogwheel train up a nearby mountain to strolling like an in-the-know local along the Viadukt, there are countless ways to spend a few days in Zurich before or after your river cruise. Here are top experiences you don’t want to miss: Shop, People-Watch and Dine Along the Viadukt Beneath the arches of a historic railway viaduct, you’ll find one of the hippest places to hang out in Zurich: the aptly named Viadukt, which runs between the bank of the Limmat River and the Hardbrücke station in the Zurich West. Browse the shops, pop into the restaurants and bars and listen to open-air concerts or events in the various arches. A favorite quirky shop: the carefully curated Westflügel book shop. Hungry? Stop by the organic Markthalle. There’s a Saturday market in the summer and a fondue tent in the winter. Take a River Day Cruise Board one of the flat boats of the Limmatschuifffahrt and you’ll get the chance to pass below the seven bridges of the Limmat River. With just 51 passengers allowed on each boat, you’ll want to make arrangements in advance. The one-hour boat trip departs from the Landesmuseum station. Spend a Day with Chagall … and Van Gogh and Monet Art lovers will adore the Kunsthaus. This tidy little museum has an entire series of rooms dedicated to Swiss artists and sculpture Alberto Giacometti, as well as works by Van Gogh, Monet and Chagel, among others. There is a great collection of modern art, as well.  St. Peter’s Church (St. Peterskirche) is one of Zurich’s most distinctive landmarks. Explore the Niederdorf Referred to as the “Dörfli” by locals, the old town area of Zurich is actually composed of two parts: Niederdorf and Oberdorf, stretching between Central and Bellevue. Forego the touristy fondue restaurants and souvenir shops, and instead take the time to marvel at the ancient architecture and charming narrow streets, unique shops and cozy bars. Sip a Moscatel at one such watering hole, or if you aspire to higher goals, climb up one of the towers of Grossmünster. Shop the Bahnhofstrasse Whether you’re just window shopping or splurging on haute couture, the Bahnhofstrasse is a must for those with a penchant for purchasing. On one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world, you’ll find recognizable, more mainstream brands at the lower half and the higher-fashion outposts at the upper end, close to Bürkliplatz and the lake. In the winter months, stick around to see the bright lights of “Lucy,” the custom-made Christmas display at the Bahnhofstrasse.  A cable car ride in Switzerland is the ride of a lifetime. Take the SZU Up Uetliberg One really mustn't miss the chance to ride the train up to the summit of Zurich’s hometown mountain. From the main train station, you can whisk to the top, then climb the observation tower for incredible views of the whole area. Take the trail from there to the Felsenegg, then take the cable car down to Adliswil, returning to Zurich on the train. It’s the perfect mini alpine day trip. Soak It All In Literally. Finally, after sightseeing or hiking in the mountains, head to Hürlimann Areal for a soak in the Thermalbad & Spa rooftop pool, steam baths and shallow pools. There are huge wooden tubs from the old brewery in the basement, in which you can sit and soak to your heart’s delight. Ready to explore Zurich with a pre or post river cruise land extension? I can’t wait to hear about your adventures. First, let’s chat so we can get you there and arrange the perfect itinerary to match your travel style and interests. I look forward to hearing from you!
 Consider an itinerary with a visit to the lavender fields in Provence for a once-in-lifetime family experience! As you reach a stage in life when you have more time to relax, more weeks of the year to travel and more time to spend with family, it’s natural to want to gather your nearest and dearest for a vacation together. Multigenerational trips are magical in the way they connect grandparents, grandkids and cousins near and far, but what can you do that will satisfy all ages, interests and activity levels? River cruising, wherever you choose to sail, can be one of the best multigenerational options out there for families wanting to reconnect and experience a new part of the world together. There are varying choices of cabins, some with connecting staterooms, and a whole slew of activity options, from biking for the active family members to gentle walking for the not-quite-so-active family members. And that’s not all - here I’ll give my top 6 reasons why your extended family may want to consider a river cruise for your next out-of-this-world vacation. Working with families on bucket list adventures is one of my favorite trips to create! 1) Depending on the Cruise Line, River Cruises Are Age-Inclusive That means that even the preschool set is welcome aboard (often age four and up). With connecting staterooms available on many ships, parents can easily keep an eye on younger kiddos and spread out with any kid gear they may need to bring along 2) There Are Options for Different Budgets Within the various stateroom choices, members of your family will find an accommodation that meets their budget. Some may want to be a bit extravagant and treat themselves to a suite with an open-air balcony, while others may prefer a window stateroom that is friendlier on the budget, but still offers every creature comfort. 3) Play Together, But Have Privacy, Too Of course, the main purpose of your multigenerational river cruise is to spend as much time together as possible. But everyone needs a break sometimes. On a river cruise vessel, there’s plenty of room to spread out, while still retaining the intimate, exclusive feel of a private yacht. Whether on a shore excursion, lounging on the sun deck or slipping away to the library with a good book, there’s a space for everyone and then plenty of time later to reconvene over dinner and drinks. 4) Menus that Cater to All Tastes The foodies among you, and even the less-than-adventuresome children - will find much to love on a river cruise, where the menu typically changes daily and is reflective of the local cuisine. If it’s not perfect for a kiddo palate, there’s always standard North American fare like steak, fries, pizza and salad. Dietary accommodations are easy to meet as well, whether vegan, gluten-free, low sodium or allergen-free.  A family river cruise in France with a visit to the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience! 5) Activities for All Ages and Interests We all have our own way of experiencing a new destination. Whether your group prefers to ride bikes through the countryside, take a cooking class or spend an afternoon in an art or history museum, river cruises typically offer numerous options throughout the week. Everyone in your family is bound to find several activities that speak to them and, who knows, they may even find a new passion! 6) Explore at Your Own Pace As with activity choice, river cruise shore excursions are categorized by easy, regular or active, so that all ability and energy levels have a perfect fit. If mobility is a challenge, there will still be an immersive way to experience a city. No one will miss out! Convinced? I truly believe a river cruise is one of the best multigenerational vacation options out there today. What’s more, you can sail just about anywhere your heart desires, from the Rhine River to the Peruvian Amazon. Let’s chat about your own wonderful family and what might work best for you.
 Travel during the holidays and visit the Vienna Christmas markets. Shopping in Vienna: Where to Go and What to Buy Vienna. One of the most popular river cruise destinations when sailing on the Danube. Whether you’ve arrived in time for its traditional Christmas markets or are enjoying the warm days of summer, if you love to shop, be sure to bring along an extra bag for all the goodies you will find. From luxury shops to independent boutiques that come and go, from the famous Sacher torte to Swarovski crystal, there’s enough variety here to woo even the most unenthusiastic of shoppers. Here’s where to go and what to buy while you’re in this fabulous Austrian city. Where to Shop for Luxury Goods in Vienna Head to the pedestrian-friendly Vienna old town and you’ll find all manner of upscale boutiques, from Lagerfeld to Cartier, Gucci to Armani. Along the Graben and Kohlmarkt, look for Jimmy Choo and Longchamp; on the Kärntner Strasse, which leads to the Hofburg, check out Swarovski and the Steffl department store. Hungry? Pop into Meinl am Graben, where you can pick up gourmet food items - including truffles and champagne for an impromptu celebration back on board your river cruise ship. Love porcelain? Don’t miss Augarten’s flagship store on Spiegelgasse. Expand your shopping tour and visit the nearby Golden Quarter, located around Bognergasse, Tuchlauben and Seitzergasse. Oooh and aaah over the sleek fashions at Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Valentino and more celebrated designers.  An early morning look at Mariahilfer Strasse before shoppers arrive. Where to Shop Like a Local in Vienna If your tastes run a bit more mainstream and you’d like to feel like a part of the local Viennese population, head to Mariahilfer Strasse, the city’s best-known shopping mile. This is where the average Vienna resident heads for clothing, gifts, homegoods and the like. This mainly pedestrian-only area is convenient to the Museumsquartier cultural complex, making it a great add-on after a day of cultural exploration. You’ll find everything from H&M to Jack Wolfskin, Pull & Bear to Puma. Don’t miss the Gerngross department store, which has been around since 1879. There’s a massive electronics selection, a huge sporting goods section and a great foodie area for refueling. On Neubaugasse, about halfway up the Mariahilfer Strasse, as well as Lindengasse, Kirchengasse and Burggasse, you’ll find a number of independent boutiques run by up-and-coming designers - an excellent place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir. What to Buy in Vienna Consider picking up some of our favorite souvenirs and only-in-Vienna items (in addition to the Swarovski crystal, porcelain treasures and Sacher tortes we know you already have your eye on): Artisanal chocolates: Check out Bonbons Anzinger for truffles, confectioneries and handmade chocolates. Be sure to pick up a lot of individual Mozart Kueglens, a chocolate sweet famously made for Mozart and a fantastic surprise to bring home for grandkids or nieces and nephews. Museum Gift Shop Trinkets: With some of the best museums in the world come some of the best museum gift shops in the world. If you’re into great design, stop by the Architekturzentrum’s shop for cool portable porta-folios, or if you’re looking for conversation pieces for your home, visit the Museum of Applied Arts and pick up colorful vases or tableware by austriandesign.at, founded by Karin Merkl. Lobmeyr Glass: This family business dating back to 1823 has created chandeliers for the Vienna State Opera and co-founded the above-mentioned Museum of Applied Arts. Come see their unique and limited-edition lighting, crystal and jewelry items, perhaps picking up a cool set of striped glass tumblers. Traditional Dirndl Dresses: Do you regularly host Oktoberfest gatherings at your home? Do you want to? Choose from classic dirndls, festive wear for kids and adults, silk scarves from Viennese silk weaver Flemich, hats from Bittner and more to play the part at your next brews-and-brats neighborhood party. Camile Boyer Goodies: Choose from the chic eyewear on display at Camile Boyer, which showcases locally made products from Austrian fashion and accessory designers. From sunglasses to everyday eyewear, all pieces are designed and manufactured in Austria - we love the Andy Wolf line, with its fun names such as “Pepper,” “Oregano” and “Miss Marple.” I took a break and had Sacher torte (not-to-be-missed Austrian cake) and cappuccino at an outside cafe after viewing the magnificent St. Stephan Cathedral. Now that I’ve whet your appetite for shopping in Vienna, let’s chat about how to fit in perusing and purchasing during your river cruise. I’d love to hear what you’re looking forward to buying and even more excited to see what you bring back! Click or tap the button below and schedule a consult!
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theresa brandtTravel Advisor Specializing in River Cruising Archives
November 2022
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Managed by Voyager Websites
FL ST #ST38545; CST #2071045-50