Category Archives: Europe

Plan a Family Getaway to Europe for Spring Break

Ditch the Typical Beach Vacation – Take Your Family on a Meaningful Spring Break Adventure in Europe! Forget the typical beach getaway for your next family spring break trip – this year, give your kids an unforgettable experience that they’ll cherish forever. Planning a European vacation might feel overwhelming, but that’s exactly where Travel Leaders […]

The Perfect Christmas Shopping Experience: Exploring European Christmas Markets!

Discover Handcrafted Holiday Treasures at European Christmas Markets Looking for unique gifts and one-of-a-kind holiday treasures? A visit to the European Christmas markets offers an unforgettable shopping experience filled with handcrafted wonders that will last for generations. From intricate ornaments to locally made delicacies, these markets offer a variety of traditional holiday items, each one […]

Cruise European Christmas Markets with Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways Christmas Market cruises offer a unique and enchanting way to celebrate the holiday season, blending the festive charm of Europe’s Christmas markets with luxurious river cruising.  These cruises provide an exceptional opportunity to explore the cultural and historical richness of Europe’s most iconic rivers, such as the Danube, Rhine, and Main, while immersing […]

Spend Your Next Christmas Holiday in Europe

Spend Your Next Christmas Holiday in Europe Why wait? Start planning your 2025 Christmas holiday now and experience the magic of European Christmas markets! Whether you’re exploring the festive streets of Western or Eastern Europe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some top destinations to consider: Destinations in Western Europe Strasbourg, France – […]

Experience the Magic of European Christmas Markets This Holiday Season

Looking to make your 2025 (or beyond) Christmas unforgettable? Why not plan a magical European Christmas holiday filled with enchanting markets, festive traditions, and breathtaking winter landscapes? With so many amazing destinations to choose from, the hardest part will be picking just one! Top Christmas Market Destinations in Western Europe Strasbourg, FranceDubbed the “Capital of […]

Heritage Tours to Norway: Explore UNESCO Sites and Scandinavian History

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of Norway? With many Americans tracing their roots back to Scandinavia, a heritage trip to Norway offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with your ancestry while exploring some of the world’s most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites. UNESCO and Its Role in […]

Travel like “Emily in Paris”

Netflix’s Emily in Paris has sparked a worldwide fascination with the City of Light. The show’s glamorous settings, chic outfits, and stunning backdrops invite you to immerse yourself in Paris’s charm. Check out some of the most iconic locations featured in the series and learn how to experience them like Emily would. Montmartre: A Stroll […]

Unveiling Hidden Gems: Out of the Way Discoveries for Mediterranean Cruisers

Embarking on a Mediterranean cruise is not just about visiting iconic landmarks; it’s about discovering the hidden treasures that lie off the beaten path. From serene monasteries in Athens to quaint islands in Croatia and charming neighborhoods in Venice, this guide explores out-of-the-way destinations that promise unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, local culture, or […]

Heritage Trips to Norway: Explore Scandinavian Culture and History

Many of the blogs you’ll see on our website include descriptions of UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world. What is UNESCO? It’s an acronym for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which identifies and preserves locations worldwide that have significant cultural and historic value to humanity. Many people in the US have […]

Bellissimo Italy!

I had the pleasure of visiting Italy this summer and it was in a word, Bellissimo!  Our family spent two whirlwind nights in Rome and managed to fit in a tour of the Colosseum, a pasta making class, the Trevi Fountain, lots of delicious food and of course, gelato.  We also did an early morning […]

Christmas Market Beverages

Glühwein, translated to “mulled wine”, is a delicious hot alcoholic drink made from red or white wine as the base and spiced with seasonings. I heard a lot of people describe as “hot sangria”, and if you’ve ever had Spanish sangria, you would agree. It was the perfect drink that kept you warm while walking […]

Christmas River Cruising

I recently had the opportunity to sail aboard the Emerald Dawn Star Ship through the Rhine and Main River with the itinerary being centered on Europe’s Christmas Markets. As a fellow Christmas fanatic, I was super excited to visit these European cities and get a front seat look into how each one prepares for and […]

La Vita in Venice

After my month-long visit to Venice, Italy, I have reaffirmed my love for this beautiful country! Italy was always a dream of mine as a little girl, and it’s safe to say, it did NOT disappoint. Italy absolutely lives up to its name and I’m sure anyone who visits this country, will know exactly what […]

Find “Off Season” Deals for Travel to Europe

Traveling to Europe during the “off season” (November through March) has a few drawbacks offset by many advantages.  The disadvantages are that some popular attractions will have shorter hours or be closed altogether.  The weather can be iffy or downright terrible, but if you’re prepared with proper clothes and shoes you can be comfortable.  And […]

Viking River Cruise Culinary Experience

Viking River Cruises focuses on destination dining. The menu on board offers regional cuisine along with classics, there is something for everyone. Viking uses locally sourced ingredients to prepare their food.  You have the opportunity to explore new cultures through food while on the ship.  If dining al fresco is your thing, you will enjoy […]