We welcome you to research European Travel Package by destination, or by clicking on our preferred travel partners. You’ll find a selection of tours, cruises, vacations and rail packages.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

Atlas Cruises & Tours| Christmas Market Tours | England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | Luxury Tour |Oberammergau | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

General Travel Tips

• Make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your date of travel. Some countries insist that your passport be valid for at least a six-month time period.
• Place an envelope in one of your checked bags containing copies of your passport, birth certificate and a back up form of photo I.D. in case your passport is lost or stolen.
• Place a copy of the detailed itinerary of your trip inside each piece of luggage. If your luggage is lost, this will help the airline locate you while you're traveling.
• If you are on Medicare and traveling outside the United States, be aware that Medicare does not cover any of your medical bills abroad. It's a good idea to get a travel protection policy that will cover these costs.
• Plan at least a day or two after your return home before scheduling any commitments; you may be tired after your journey.

Don't Forget

• Stow away some antibacterial wipes-they're a convenient way to clean up on the go.
• Bring a voltage converter with you, along with an adapter (to fit electrical plugs into foreign outlets). Note that some adapter kits don't include converters.
• Pack an extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts in case they are lost or broken.
• Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are a must. Never pack new shoes.
• Wrap a long strip of duct tape around a pencil and bring it along for the ride. Duct tape is the magic fix for everything from torn suitcases to a broken sandal strap.

Click here for over 50 posts with helpful travel tips and advice.

Europe is a place of wonders, an intriguing past and timeless elegance.  Here, watch history come live as you explore the destinations of your choice.  Saver new foods and discover new passions.  Shop for exquisite fashion and wander bustling markets for the best bargains.  Let some of the most renowned theatres in the world excite and entertain you.  Discover lands where fairytale castles exist and real kings, queens and princess rule.  Europe is charming and positively magical, alluring, enchanting, enthralling and it's where Harry Potter, Shakespeare , Sherlock Holmes and "Angles & Demons" come to life.

Europe is defined in its thriving cities, breathtaking countryside, quaint pubs and the world's finest museums.  A day in Europe could be a day of sightseeing, romance or just a long afternoon sitting at a sidewalk cafe.

We welcome you to research your next European tour by destination, or by clicking on our preferred travel partners.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:
Atlas Cruises & Tours| Christmas Market Tours | England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | Luxury Tour |Oberammergau | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:
Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours | General Tours | Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Collette Vacations’ Europe Christmas Markets, presents the ultimate Christmas markets experience, visiting no less than three cities famed for their markets such as Strasbourg, Bern and Innsbruck. In between bargain-hunting, travellers will also get the chance to revel in the region’s spectacular, snow-laced scenery.

Some of the many highlights include:

• Visit the spectacular Christmas markets at Strasbourg, Bern & Innsbruck
• Travel through the spectacular Bavarian Alps
• Explore the city of Munich
• Explore La Petite France in Strasbourg
• See the famous Neuschwanstein Castle 

The exceptional quality, unrivalled value and impeccable service provided by Collette Vacations will create holiday memories that last a lifetime.

CHRISTMAS TIME CRUISE WITH BURT WOLF
December 10 to 19, 2009 |  Austria, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $2,934 to $3,490 (plus airfare).
Space is limited. Call for details.

We invite you to experience the traditional magic of Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean in the months of November through April. This is the perfect time of year to vsit. The climate is surprisingly often mild and the cities are less crowded than in the summer months, and prices are 30 to 40% lower than traveling during peak season.

Shop in the glittering Christmas Markets and Bazaars. Explore and soak up the atmosphere of Old World Charm. Our tours are priced much lower than during the summer season and the airlines are advertising some of the lowest airfares of the year. Now is the time to make your reservations.

Italy is still the leader of destinations and Spain is not far behind, but don’t discount Egypt. Egypt is an awesome destination for the winter season. Temperatures are more bearable than the hot, hot summer season. For Christmas Markets, Vienna Prague and Budapest are still most popular. Wherever you choose, you will not be disappointed in our winter seasons magical tour destinations.

Written by: C. Kennedy
kennedy@atlastravelweb.com

The Czech Republic has a moderate climate with great local diversity throughout the year. Generally winters and cold and summers are mild. The hottest months have the highest level of rainfall. A raincoat or umbrella is recommended.

Food & Drink:  

Q.  I'm confused about luggage, specifically carry on. Is my purse considered a carry on item? How about my husband's camera case? My husband wants to bring his computer, it is slightly over the 12x11x6 Is this a problem?

A.  #1.  A purse or camera case is not considered a carry on. You can still have a separate carry-on bag.

#2.  As far as your husband's computer, carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation. If it is a very minimal difference, (1 inch,) then it should still fit in the overhead without a problem, but these measurements are given to ensure you will not have any issue while touring.

Services offered include services of 24/7 agent for any last minutes changes, pre-trip travel advice such as what vaccines are required, embassy contacts, weather and currency information.  They also offer assistance for last minute changes, such as cancelled or delayed flights, making hotel reservations or ground transportation reservations. Benefits include coverage in the event of cruise line, airline or tour operator default (financial default non applicable to all suppliers) Coverage for sickness, injury or death of immediate family member. Terrorist incident that results in loss of life or major damage to property, by any person

With a good policy, you receive 24 hours assistance replacing lost or stolen documents such as visas, passports or tickets. Cash advance for travel or medical emergencies. They can also help you locate English speaking medical specialists, facilities and assistance with medical evacuations anywhere in the world.

They will provide you with baggage and personal effects loss coverage, baggage delay coverage and luggage tracing services. They have a bilingual staff for telephone interpretation for medical or legal emergencies.

If you purchase your travel insurance within 15 days of making your initial deposit your coverage will include pre-existing conditions which applies to the first $25,000 of trip cost.

Whether a child gets the flu, or a close family member has a medical emergency, travel protection has a plan that will protect you before or during your vacation. The right kind of insurance is essential. It will provide you with peace of mind, medical evacuation in case of an emergency, baggage coverage, flight delay and flight cancellation coverage.

In addition to these services some insurance policies also provide a concierge service which is available to assist you with restaurant reservations, event tickets, tee time reservations and floral services.

This is only a brief description of some of the benefits and travel services provided. All policies and coverage may vary, and may not be available in all states. There are also expanded coverage plans that offer business related covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and other that let you cancel for any reason.

At times it is best to purchase the insurance with the tour operator or cruise line as part of your package, where on other occasions you can save money and get better coverage medical and evacuation coverage. An experience agent can explain your options to that you can purchase the best policy for your individual needs.

Good travel insurance isn't always expensive. We have negotiated excellent policies exclusive to Atlas, where rather than paying by age, which can add up for seniors, everyone is charged a flat amount base on the cost of the trip.

A GREAT VALUE FOR ALL SEASONS

• Fewer Crowds and Great Savings: Save up to 35% when compared to summer travel, plus Trafalgar always saves you up to 40% off the cost of traveling on your own.
• First Class Itineraries: Expertly designed, authentically local European vacations featuring exclusive Be My Guest dining highlights, special Family Experiences departures and the personal concierge services of Trafalgar's professional Tour Directors.

Book your Fall, Winter & Spring European vacation today!  Offer expires July 31, 2009!

Before You Go

• Secure Your Home: Cancel all newspapers, pay bills and consider what to do about the mail. You can ask your Post Office to hold it while you’re away, or get someone to look after your house.  Put some lights and a radio or TV on a timer. If applicable, park a car in your driveway.
• Be prepared:  Bring an emergency contact list, including the telephone numbers of your insurance people, credit card issuers, and home numbers of close relatives or friends, in case of an emergency.
• Back up important information: Copy or scan your travel documents – passport, travelers, identity and vaccination card and credit cards – front and back. Make two sets of copies, leave one at home or with a trusted person, and store the second in a secret place in your suitcase. If your wallet is lost or stolen, you will have all the information and phone numbers you need. If you choose to scan your documents, send them to your email address. In case of a problem, you can access them from any business center or cybercafe in the world.
• If you have a black or blue suitcase, you may want to wrap brightly colored electrical tape or ribbons around the handles of check luggage to make it easy to identify, OR use colored luggage tags.
• Just in case your luggage is lost, make sure you have your name, address and phone number on each piece, so that the airline can contact you. We suggest using a work address rathern than home whenever possible.
• Medications: Remember, all medications and vitamins must be in their original containers when traveling. You can ask your pharmacist to label small bottles with just enough medication in for your trip. Always carry these in your carry-on. Also, take a few days extra supply, in case you are delayed coming back.

Useful Items When Traveling

• Sun glasses
• Pen & small notepad
• Small retractable umbrella
• Sun block
• Chapstick
• Package of wipes or bottle of hand sanitzer
• Plastic bags. Take various size zip-lock bags – the heavier duty the better. They are great for packing things that might leak, like shampoo and lotions, and come in handy again for dirty clothes, the beach, etc.
• Camera with extra film or memory cards
• Chargers for any electronics you may be bringing (such as Ipod, camera, cell phone, labtops, etc.)
• Small bag packed into your suitcase. This can be used to carry souvenirs.
• Book or magazine
  

Many clients wonder what the differences are when traveling with a budget, first class or deluxe tour operator. As we have discussed in previous posts, a lot has to do with the type of accommodations used, the location of the hotels, the number of people on the tour and how much is included in the price (i.e. sightseeing, meals, etc.)

Today our focus is to explain the difference in meals.  In most cases, on a budget tour you will receive continental breakfast. This is a basic breakfast of usually consisting of cereals, pastries, juice and coffee. Once you take a first class tour and above, breakfast is normally buffet. This offers the widest choices, quickest service and as much or as little food as you desire.

Budget tours rarely include dinners, and when they do, it is normally in the hotel. First class tour operators offer a combination of both hotel dinners and some dining at local restaurants. However, there is usually a limited menu. It includes 3 to 5 courses with a more limited choice of appetizer, entrees and desserts. We are not suggesting the food is bad, on the contrary, frequently the limited menu includes the chef's freshest market specials of the day and takes less time to serve.

Dining is a delightful and integral part of the travel experience when traveling abroad. Deluxe and luxury operators select restaurants that offer a true taste of each region you visit, and offer full choice of menu to include a starter course (hot & cold appetizer, soup or salad,) main course, dessert and beverage. You’ll savor a delectable assortment of classic dishes and regional specialties. Many meals include wine with dinner and at times entertainment.

Regardless of which tour you book, gratuities to the wait staff are included. For lunches and evenings that meals are not included, the knowledgeable tour directors can assist you in finding dining options based on your the type of food you want to have and your budget.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a site that holds a list of outstanding cultural or natural universal value such as, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It could be a monument, building, mountain, forest, lake, desert, complex or city.

So how is a site selected?

Only countries that have signed the World Heritage Convention, pledging to protect their natural & cultural heritage can submit nominations for properties on their territory to be considered for inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

A nominated property is independently evaluated by several Advisory Boards. Once a site has been nominated & evaluated, the intergovernmental World Heritage Committee makes the final decision. One per year, the Committee meets to decide which sites will be inscribed on the World Heritage list.

The program aims to catalogue & preserve sites of outstanding importance, either cultural or natural, to the common heritage of humankind.

There are currently 878 World Heritage Sites in 145 countries. These include 679 cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed properties.

You may have visited a place in the U.S. already, not realizing it was a UNESCO site such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Yosemite Yellowstone or Olympic National Park.

Click here for a full list of site.

I have seen 20 sites in 9 countries, so only 858 to go, but I have to say that certain countries do not interest me AT ALL, so my goal would be to see at least half of the UNESCO sites while traveling the world.

How many UNESCO sites have you visited?

In Germanic cities, towns and villages you will find all kinds of Christmas merchandise and gifts, whilst in France's Alsace region villages are glittering with Christmas lights and timbered fairy-tale buildings decked for the season.

Smell the air filled with aromas of roasting chestnuts, exotic warm spices of mulled wine, freshly baked mince pies and warm continental bread. Savour hot espresso coffee as you welcome the day. The crisp fresh air of winter makes every smell a memory.

Escape the festive madness at home and enjoy shopping for traditional gifts at the markets of Europe, at the same time giving you the ultimate Christmas gift - an Insight Winter Vacation.

Alpine Christmas
8 days visiting Austria & Germany

Enchanting Christmas Markets
8 days visiting Austria & the Czech Republic

European Christmas Markets
9 days visiting Germany, France & Austria

Europe's Christmas Markets
9 days visiting Switzerland, Germany & Austria

• Click here for Swine Flu talking points
• Click here for U.S. Travel's statement.
• Click here for the CDC website with more information on Swine Flu.

For all travelers, CDC recommends the following steps to help you stay healthy:

• Be sure you are up-to-date with all your routine vaccinations, including a seasonal influenza vaccine. The seasonal vaccine is not expected to offer protection against swine flu viruses, but it can protect against seasonal influenza viruses which may still be circulating in Mexico and the Southern Hemisphere.
• Pack a travel health kit that contains basic first aid and medical supplies. See Pack Smart in Your Survival Guide to Safe and Healthy Travel for a list of what to include in your travel health kit.
• Identify the health-care resources in the area(s) you will be visiting.
• Check if your health insurance plan will cover you abroad.  Consider purchasing additional insurance that covers medical evacuation in case you become sick.  For more information, see Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad from the U.S. Department of State.
• Remember that U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities do not have the legal authority, capability, and resources to evacuate or to give medications, vaccines or medical care to private U.S. citizens overseas.

Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of swine flu

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.  This removes germs from your skin and helps prevent diseases from spreading.
  • Use waterless alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a wastebasket.
• If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
• Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner (with at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.)
• It is important to follow the advice of local health and government authorities.  You may be asked to restrict your movement and stay in your home to contain the spread of swine flu.

If you have specific questions about the swine influenza cases see http://www.cdc.gov/contact/  or call 1-800-232-4636, which is 1-800-CDC-INFO.

To learn more about travel health, visit www.cdc.gov/travel.

More information will be provided as the situation develops. Please continue to check our website on a regular basis for updates.

Planning to travel in a group?

•  Four color tri-fold brochures or Four color flyers which can be used as 
   hand-outs or mail-outs to prospective participants
•  Power Point Presentations for group level meetings to explain the
   program to possible participants
•  Presentation by a member of our group department to local South
    Florida organizations

Should you bring a laptop while traveling?

This is a personal question that really depends on many things. What you’ll be doing, where you are going and how long will you be traveling?

I would like to share some guidelines that may help with your decision.

Reasons you should bring a laptop:

You can email your family and friends. Having your laptop, you can email your loved ones back home. This is something you could do at most internet cafes, which is a much nicer atmosphere than your hotel room. Most cafes around the world do offer free Wifi when you order something. Not all cafes have free Wifi; some do have a small charge. Newer cruise ships also offer Wifi, but make sure and purchase a package, as usage rates can be high.

You can download all your photos. You can download your digital photo right to your laptop. This will keep your camera’s memory stick free everyday. This will allow you to capture that favorite photo. If your memory stick is full, you would lose that favorite photo moment.

Keeping a journal of the cities you visited. Sometimes we see so much on our vacation that we tend to forget something. Keeping a journal along the way will allow you to never forget. It also allows you to post your travel blogs in writing.

Calling home for free (or very cheap) with Skype. For mere cents per minute you can make calls to landlines and cell phones from all over the world with Skype. It allows you to call from any web-enabled laptop. It’s a great way to keep in touch over the phone.

You can get lots of local information. Many laptops today have maps, directions, schedules and must-see sites for key cities. Maybe you would like get tickets to a play or need to get those directions to a restaurant. You can get all the information you need right from your laptop. Usually it’s much better than carrying around big guidebooks.

You can work. Even though we are on vacation, sometimes we still have our work on our minds. Maybe you have an on-line business and need to be kept informed. Having your laptop with you allows you to still work.  

Reasons you should keep your laptop home:

It could get lost, stolen or damaged. Where you are traveling really depends on the risks, which could range from mild to extreme. Getting your laptop insured by home or travel insurance is really not likely. Most insurance companies won’t cover you unless you pay a very high premium.

It’s extra weight to carry. If weight is an issue then you may want to keep it home. Depending on where you are traveling, you would need to bring your power adapter and any plug in devices to operate your laptop.

Surfing the internet. As we all know, the internet can be addicting. You could spend hours surfing the web, when we should be enjoying the experience of the city that you paid to see.

Checking in at the airport.  Our new airport regulations require us to open our carry bags to get through security. When you are traveling with your laptop, you will have to remove your laptop from the carry case for security inspection, so allow extra time for check-in.

You need to base your decision on where you are going. The more remote destinations you are traveling to, the less likely you will find a Wifi connection. Some remote islands will probably only have a dial up connection, which would probably be very slow.

The biggest consideration is whether you feel you actually need a laptop. Some people absolutely need to stay connected. If you decide to bring it, I would recommend a soft case to protect it. I would use a water-resistant case. Remember to never stow your computer in your luggage.

Contributed by: A Sternberg
angie@atlastravelweb.com

Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches
Combine time in France's splendid capital with discoveries of quaint villages along the Seine and in the picturesque Normandy region, and the poignant WWII landing beaches. Experience Van Gogh's Auvers-sur-Oise, Claude Monet's stunning gardens at Giverny and Joan or Arc's historic Rouen.

Grand France
Cruisers will experience France at its scenic best with guided sightseeing in Paris, Rouen, Lyon, Avignon & more....see charming and historic cities along the Saône and Rhône Rivers through the heart of this beautiful country.

Castles on the Rhine to the City of Music
Four countries, three rivers and the masterful Main Danube Canal...start in Zurich, then enjoy guided sightseeing in the cities of Strasbourg, Wurzburg, Nuremberg and Vienna.

Taste of the Danube
Choose from a 5 day Vienna to Budapest cruise or a 6 day Budapest to Vienna cruise.  Great options for those with limited time to travel or who are interested in combining a river cruise with a land vacation.

Christmastime in Germany & Austria
See beautiful decorations, the festive lights and the special atmosphere that only a visit to a Christmas market on a cold, crisp winter's day can bring. See the highlights of the towns along the Main and Danube with a local expert, visit the Benedictine Abbey of Melk and more.

To celebrate their new itineraries, and to encourage travelers to book their 2010 river cruise vacation, Globus is offering early booking incentives. Guests receive $150 off per person on any Egypt, China, Galapagos or Taste of the Danube cruise and land only vacation and $300 off per person when booking any of these itineraries including airfare.

For European itineraries guests receive $250 off per person select Europe river cruises and land only vacations, or $500 off per person on air inclusive vacations. Bookings must be made, under deposit and discount applied between March 25th and June 30th for travel through Dec. 31, 2010. The offer applies to new 2010 bookings only and will not be applied to existing bookings.

About Avlon River Cruises: Chosen by Travel + Leisure magazine as a Top 10 Small Ship Cruise Line in 2007, Avalon Waterways is the world’s fastest-growing small ship cruise company. Making waves in river and small ship cruising by offering travelers the newest, most luxurious ships in Europe, China, Egypt and the Galápagos, Avalon Waterways’ ships feature state-of-the-art design and technology and house the largest staterooms, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic sliding glass doors. Avalon Waterways is part of the Globus family of brands, an award-wining travel industry leader with 80 years of international travel expertise.

The story had a nice ending, as Mr. Elliott was able to get the client a full refund, but not all stories end this way, and clients lose thousands of dollars for not asking the right questions prior to making a reservation.

Be aware of penalties! At Atlas, when we book reservations for our clients, not only do we provide them with a confirmation, but also the Terms and Conditions for each supplier, as cancellation penalties vary for each company. At times, there are 3 to 5 pages of "conditions" for the client to read over, but all of this is done prior to booking the reservation, so you have no surprises down the road.

Furthermore as the article mentions, if there is any chance you may have to cancel your trip, a consolidator is not the way to go when booking airline tickets, as their penalties are usually higher than booking with the airline or suppliers directly.

Final thoughts...no one can anticipate or predict the future. Be prepared and have piece of mind, by purchasing travel insurance for every trip! Suppliers such as Travel Guard & Access America offer add-ons to several of their plans that allow you to cancel for work reasons or even cancel for any reason, and receive up to 75% of your penalties back. Many cruise lines and tour operators offer their own version of cancel for any reason policies, but in some cases rather than money, you receive vouchers for future travel.

It can all be a bit confusing, so make sure to consult a travel professional to help you select the best coverage to protect your investment.

Click here to read the article published on CNN.

For more information on the pros & cons of booking airfare separately from a vacation, click here.

BURT WOLF CRUISES FOR 2009
For full trip details on all of the Burt Wolf 2009 cruises, please call us at 1-800-942-3301.

TULIP TIME CRUISE
March 28 to April 5, 2009
Holland & Belgium
Cruise priced from $2,859 to $3,378 pp (plus airfare).

RHINE RIVER CRUISE
April 18 to 26, 2009
France, Germany, Holland
Cruise priced from $3,131 to $3,650 pp (plus airfare).

CRUISING THROUGH FRANCE
May 24 to June 4, 2009
Nice to Paris, France
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,959 to $4,608 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THE DANUBE
June 18 to July 1, 2009
Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $4,179 to $4,828 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THROUGH FRANCE
July 11 to 22, 2009
Paris to Nice, France
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,909 to $4,558 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THE DANUBE
July 29 to August 9, 2009
Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,799 to $4,448 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THE DANUBE
August 12 to 23, 2009
Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,799 to $4,448 (plus airfare).

RHINE RIVER CRUISE
August 22 to 30, 2009
Holland, Germany, France
Cruise priced from $3,339 to $3,988 (plus airfare).

CRUISING CENTRAL EUROPE
October 15 to 27, 2009
France, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,909 to $4,558 (plus airfare).

CHRISTMAS TIME CRUISE
December 10 to 19, 2009
Austria, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $2,934 to $3,490 (plus airfare).

The baroque and rococo architecture that exist on all levels of the city are products of the great aristocratic families that built palaces and homes here; while the cozy coffeehouses are still haunted by the likes of Freud, Schoenberg, and Klimt. Today, Vienna still offers some of the finest music and art in the world, but can also delight visitors with a vast array of delectable treats, from cakes and pastries to coffees and wines.

Things to See & Do:

Stephansdom (St. Stephan's Cathedral): Vienna's skyline is dominated by the richly tiled roof and soaring spire, nicknamed Steffl (Little Stephen), of the greatest Gothic cathedral in Europe. The South Tower, called Alter Steffl (Old Stephen), has 343 steps that can be hiked up for a tremendous view of the city and the surrounding Wienerwald. Inside the cathedral is the carved, wooden Wiener Neustadt alterpiece from 1447, among many monuments, tombs, sculptures, and paintings. There is also a chilling tour of the crypt, complete with Hapsburgs' copper jars... of the Hapsburgs.

Walking the Ringstrasse: Follow the footsteps of Freud on a 2½-mile walk around the perimeter of the Inner Stadt, catching glimpses of the Rathaus, Burgtheater, Staatsoper, Staadtpark, the Parliament building, and, of course, the magnificent Hofburg Palace. Freud walked this route every day during his two-hour lunch break, from one end of Danube Canal to the other, inspired by all the grandeur that Vienna has to offer. This impressive boulevard surrounds the old borders of Vienna, and changes names as it moves around, from Opernring, to Kärntner Ring, with each ending in Ring.

Hofburg Palace: The city residence of the Hapsburgs until 1918, this complex has many buildings, courtyards, and museums, starting with the Michaelertor (St. Michael's Gate), a domed entry that leads into the green Heldenplatz (Hero's Square). Originally started in 1279, this "city-within-a-city" has been added to and tinkered with for hundreds of years, and contains the Spanisch Reitschule (Spanish Riding School), the Nationalbibliothek (Library), and the Hofburgkapelle, home of the Vienna Boys' Choir.

Spanische Reitschule (Spanish Riding School): In this white, crystal-chandeliered ballroom, sleek, stark-white Lippizaner stallions and their skillful riders perform a routine that hasn't changed in 400 years. The stallions are a crossbreed of Spanish thoroughbreds and Karst horses that dates from 1580, and they are a treat to watch, but reservations should be made 6 to 8 weeks in advance.

Wiener Sängerknaben (Vienna Boys' Choir): In the Hofburg there is the Hofburgkapelle, a Gothic chapel from 1447 that hosts the Hofmusikkapelle, an ensemble of Vienna Boys' Choir and Vienna State Opera chorus that performs pieces by classical and modern composers, including holiday masses by Mozart and Haydn. Written applications for tickets must be sent 8 weeks in advance for the 9:15 am performance at Sunday Mass.

The Museums in Maria-Therezen-Platz: This beautiful garden sits in between 2 incredible museums that face each other in matching grandeur:

·On the left is the Kunsthistorisches (Museum of Fine Arts), which has a fabulous collection including Roger van der Weyden's Crucifixion Triptych, Brueghel's Children's Games and Hunters in the Snow. There is also work by Flemish masters Van Dyck and Rubens, and two Rembrandt Self-Portraits. However, a highlight of this museum is the Albrecht Dürer collection, including Blue Madonna and Martyrdom of 10,000 Christians.

·Directly across from this museum and identical in architecture is the Naturhistorisches (Natural History Museum), which boasts a few gems from history, but hasn't changed much in the past hundred years since it was opened by Emperor Franz Josef.

Schloss Schönbrunn: This magnificent baroque palace in the outskirt of the city was built as a summer residence for the Hapsburgs in 1713. Kaiser Franz Josef I was born and died here, with his office on display to the public exactly as he left it in 1916. Opulent rococo interiors shine throughout the rest of the building, including the Hall of Mirrors in which six-year-old Mozart played his first concert for Maria Theresa, and then ran up and kissed her when he finished.

Musical Landmarks: In the Zentralfriedhof, the central Cemetary, which is larger than the Innere Stadt, music lovers can find the graves of Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms, Strauss, and Arnold Schönberg, including a monument to Mozart, even though his true grave is unmarked, hidden elsewhere in the city. There is also a Schubert Museum, Haydn Wohnhaus, and Strauss Memorial Rooms

Christkindlmärte: A huge pre-Christmas celebration engulfs the entire city as handmade decorations, red ribbons, and evergreen boughs decorate the streets. Christkindlemarkts, small outdoor vendors sell gifts, decorations for the Tannenbaum (tree), and little trinkets and toys. There are always plenty of sausage and cake vendors nearby, with the greatest concentration in front of the Rathaus and in the Spittleburg quarter. December

The Avalon Affinity will sail itineraries on the Rhine and Moselle rivers, as well as Christmas cruises on the Danube.

Avalon Affinity has four decks, including a sky deck with lounge chairs. There are two bars, an open-seating dining room, hairdresser and fitness center, as well as an elevator. Smoking is not permitted inside.

Staterooms (65), all outside, measure 172 square ft.; junior suites are 258 square ft. Cabins on the Royal and Sapphire Decks have "French balconies," sliding glass doors with a protective railing; remaining cabins have picture windows. 

Stateroom amenities include flat-screen satellite TV, radio, mini-bar, safe and hair dryers. Beds can be configured into two twins or one queen and come with high-quality pillows and duvets and Egyptian cotton linens. 

Consider sailing aboard the Affinity in July, on the Windmills, Vineyards & Paris cruise. Book by March 15th, and receive $350 off per person for July 19th & 28th departures.

Experience France, Luxembourg, Germany, Belgium, and Holland on this fantastic cruise vacation. See the city’s major highlights on a guided tour of Paris and travel between Paris and Metz via TGV high-speed train. Also enjoy guided sightseeing in Trier and Cologne, a canal cruise in Amsterdam, and take pictures of the windmills at famous Kinderdijk. Visit Reichsburg Castle in Cochem and enjoy a wine cellar visit in Bernkastel. Guided sightseeing in Arnhem includes a visit to the Airborne Museum Hartenstein, and you can sample the area’s famous Riesling wines in the pretty wine village of Rüdesheim.

Before You Go:

Research:  Do your homework and find out what each area is known for and decide what items you'll look for. Find out what similar items sell for. If you are considering pictures or other items to decorate your home with your travel finds, take measurements, then pop your tape measure into your travel bag. Bring a fabric swatch if needed as well. If you plan on having garments custom-made in the Orient for example, pack a favorite item to copy. Also research customs, GST and VAT tax refunds, shipping large items, and other important rules. Thailand and China, for example, are known for antiques, but you'll need appropriate paperwork to bring them home. In Europe when you make a purchase you must fill out the tax refund form supplied by the ship. You pay the full price, but when you leave Europe there is usually an area in all major airports called 'VAT Refund' after you have cleared security. You take the tax forms to be stamped and drop them in a box. In one to two billing cycles you should see the tax refunded back onto your credit card. If you are traveling on an escorted tour, your tour manager can give you tips on the best places to shop. On a cruise, they normally hold presentations and replay them on the ship channel in the cabin, with shopping tips on each port as well.

Shopping Strategies:

Local markets offer a rich travel experience, and a treasure trove of shopping options. Here are some bargaining tips to make that a more rewarding experience:

Get the Lay of the Land - Be Strategic:  Stroll around, take in the colors and the smells of the market while checking around prices on similar items. Watch how merchants interact with their customers. In Italian markets you'll encounter a hard sell; merchants in Arab markets often bargain after you've shared a cup of tea.

The Art of the Deal: Start by offering half the quoted price. Your merchant will tout the value of his handicrafts and bring the price back to almost the original. Split the difference. By the 3rd round your price will likely be about 75% of the original. Instead of haggling again, count out your cash until you reach slightly less than his price. You should have a deal. If the merchant is aggressive, step away. Likewise there is no need to be rude to the merchants, as they are only try to make a living.

Consider Shipping Your Items Back Home: The most difficult part is waiting a few weeks for your items to arrive if you are overseas, but with airlines charging for additional baggage weight, shipping can save you money. Just make sure to insure the package if it is breakable.

In the end, the important thing is that you enjoy the experience and keep in mind, more important than the exact cost will be priceless travel memories derived from your new-found treasures.

We'd love to hear about some of your shopping strategies?

Contributed by: S Brage

Take a virtual tour of the Avalon Tranquility, the Avalon Poetry and the newest ship, the Avalon Scenery.  You can view various areas of the ship including the lobby, staterooms, bar, dining room, sky deck and fitness room.

Avalon is currently offering $200 off pp for air inclusive bookings and $100 off pp for cruise only reservation. Click here more details to see all of the great itineraries offered in 2009 including Christmas markets river cruises.

Have more questions?  SkyMiles members can contact the Delta SkyMiles Center at 1-800-323-2323 or the number on the back of their membership cards. WorldPerks members should continue contacting the WorldPerks Service Center at 1-800-44-PERKS (or the number on the back of their membership cards).

In order to be a good travel agent, you need education so that you can pass the information on to your clients. The Travel Institute has certifications that take about 6 years to complete, as you are not eligible to participate unless you have been in the business for a certain amount of time. Cruise Lines International has a 3 step certification process up to a ECC (Elite Cruise Counselor) You have to be in the business a minimum of 10 years to participate in the program as well as conducting various ship inspections. There are also various destination & product specialists programs, seminars, conventions & trade shows throughout the year.  Our office has speakers from various preferred partners come in at least twice a month, to ensure we are up to date with new products or changes.

So the next time you book your vacation, keep in mind that travel agents are trained professionals with your best interest in mind, and there is no additional cost to you to book through an agent. In fact, agents will always save you time (& time is money!) and also in many cases, get you a better price or added amenities.

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Common question asked by clients

Answer:

You would be surprised how many things can be packed and not exceed 50 lbs. There are some wonderful no wrinkle, light weight fabrics for traveling and you don't need a pair of shoes for each outfit. When staying in the same hotel for more than 1 night, you can take advantage of the laundry facilities they have to offer.

Make a list before packing and make sure to mix and match outfits. Always pack tightly. Scarf or jewelry can change the look or a blouse. Packing loosely will waste space and cause clothes to wrinkle from moving around. Use all the space you have available to you, such as putting socks & under garments inside of shoes.

You can get a great packing list from Frommers.

Keep in mind that the airlines are changing their restrictions and charges often these days. Make sure and go to their web site or call a couple of weeks before travel to get the latest information.

There are exceptions, especially with adventure trips or luxury travel, where preliminary documents are sent, as well as personal registration forms to be filled out.

You will of course always receive written confirmations from us for your records.

Day 1 with the budget and first class tours is "always" the overnight flight to Europe, arriving on Day 2 - this means Day 2 is your first hotel night.

Day 1 with the Deluxe & Luxury Tours is the day you arrive in Europe to start your tour.

With US and Canada tours, day 1 is the day your tour begins.

With other exotic destinations such as South America, Asia and Australia, please check with you agent, as there could be as many as 1 to 2 days for the flight over.

In most cases, booking your own airfare is fine, but I want to remind you to keep a few things in mind.

When you book airfare with the cruise or tour operator, transfers are included to & from the airport. When calculating how much money you are saving, make sure & factor in the additional cost for transfers.

Tours can cancel due to lack of participation. If you book your own air, we suggest booking a tour that is "guaranteed" to operate. Many suppliers have added hundreds of guaranteed departures on their popular tours.

If you experience a problem with your flight being cancelled due to weather or other circumstances, when you book your airfare along with your travel packages, you will have assistance in booking the next available flight to meet up with your trip. If you book your flights online, how difficult will it be to get someone on the phone to assist you in rebooking another flight?

Insurance is another consideration. If you book your own air, normally the cruise or tour operators insurance will not cover the value of your flights. Make sure to speak to an agent about outside insurance coverage so that your entire purchase is protected.

Book early & save. Many suppliers offer air promotions for bookings made well in advance.

On many occasions we do advise our clients to buy airfare separately, but make sure to take the time to discuss your options with an agent to ensure you are receiving the best value.

I told her they would be delivered by UPS to her home address on Monday.

This is 8 days prior to her departure.

She was satisfied with this and we ended the call.

She called back about 10 minutes later and asked where the documents were being mailed to. I told her they were on their way to her address in Chicago. She said, “But I’m in Rhode Island”.

I asked why she did not advise me of this and she said, “We always spend our summers in Rhode Island”

Okay, so now I need a crystal ball with all of the other hats I wear! I was supposed to know this??

I told her I would see what I could do and called the supplier to ask if another set of documents could be generated and mailed out.

This reservation was made with a Luxury Tour supplier and they agreed to send the documents directly to her Rhode Island address.

If this were a supplier other than a Luxury Tour operator, a duplicate set of documents would have a fee to generate and the overnight mail would have to be paid for by the client.

Please think of your travel agent as one of your circle of family and friends. Keep us in mind to notify us of any changes in your life. Give us your airline schedule if you make your own airline reservations; give us all contact numbers and dates when you’ll be at another location. Don’t think you’re bothering us with trivia. Our job is to give you the best customer service we can, but to do this we need your help.