Author Archives: Paul - GetAway Travel Service

Some other Luxor sites to consider…

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Welcome back to Luxor, the city that holds a wealth of history waiting to be discovered! In our previous blog post, we explored the wonders of Luxor, from the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex where creation supposedly began, to the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs rest in intricately decorated tombs. But our journey through this ancient city is far from over. Join us as we delve deeper into Luxor’s captivating past, uncovering more of its hidden gems and historical treasures. From the awe-inspiring temples to the stories etched in hieroglyphs, prepare to be amazed by the splendor that awaits in part two of our Luxor exploration.

Valey of the Kings

You can read Part 1 here

You can alos find more details about Joining us in October 2026 for a great & luxurious Egyptian Adventure

Now more about Luxor

In the Valley of Kings:

Tomb Interior

The tomb of Ramses VI has some very impressive ceiling paintings to see here and it is one of the most well-preserved tombs. The intricate paintings, done in vibrant colors, depict astronomical scenes.  His tomb is actually a repurposed tomb: Originally, KV9 was started for Ramses V, but he died before it was finished. Ramses VI then took over, expanding and completing the tomb, leading to some interesting overlaps and alterations in the decorations. This means that when you visit his tomb, you are seeing a somewhat altered and reused monument, which is quite unique.

Wall relief showing Book of Gates in tomb of Seti I

The tomb of Seti I is one of the largest and most elaborately decorated tombs in the valley. The wall carvings and paintings show religious and mythological scenes.  Seti I’s mummy is considered one of the best-preserved royal mummies ever discovered. When it was found in the Deir el-Bahri cache in 1881, it was remarkably intact, giving us a very clear picture of what he looked like in life. This has allowed researchers to study his health and appearance in great detail.

Mortuary Temple of Merenptah

Merenptah was the 13th son of Ramses II. His tomb has carvings and hieroglyphs that show scenes from the Book of the Dead.  While there’s no definitive archaeological proof, Merenptah is famous for the “Israel Stele,” also known as the Merenptah Stele. This inscription is the earliest known textual reference to “Israel” outside of the Bible. It mentions that Merenptah “plundered Israel,” which has led some to connect him to the pharaoh of the Exodus story. However, this is a subject of much debate and remains a point of scholarly discussion.

There are tombs on the West side of the Nile. The tombs of the Nobles typically draw smaller crowds, but they are an interesting and diverse set of burial sites.

Painting showing metal working in tomb of Rekhmire

Rekhmire was a high ranking official during the reign of Thutmose III and Amenhotep II. The colorful paintings in his tomb show scenes of daily life, religious rituals and foreign lands and people.  Rekhmire’s wall paintings, serve as a visual record of his life and duties as vizier (a high-ranking official) under Thutmose III and Amenhotep II. It’s like a snapshot of how the Egyptian government and society functioned during that period, making it a valuable historical resource.

Wall painting in tomb of Userhat

Userhat was a scribe during the reign of Amenhotep II. His tomb has vivid, intricate scenes of the Nile, agricultural activities, religious rituals as well as ancient musical instruments and dancers.

Paintings depicting the harvest in Tomb of Menna

The tomb of Menna has stunning, extraordinary paintings that show agricultural activities, hunting, fishing and family life. He was an overseer in the fields during the reign of Thutmose IV.  While his tomb is known for its beautiful and detailed paintings, some of these depictions were deliberately defaced, particularly those showing his eyes. This is believed to be an act of “eye-desecration,” a form of ritualistic defacement intended to prevent the deceased from seeing or benefiting from the tomb’s offerings in the afterlife. While the reasons behind this specific defacement remain debated, it’s a fascinating example of the complex beliefs and practices surrounding death and the afterlife in ancient Egypt.

Wall carving in tomb of Ramose

Ramose was a high-ranking official under Amenhotep III. His tomb has beautiful carvings and paintings that show the royal court and religious ceremonies.

Sailing on the nile – Tomb of Sennefer

Sennefer was the mayor of Thebes during the reign of Amenhotep II. His tomb is referred to as the “Tomb of Vines because of the intricate vine decorations and frescoes showing he and his family engaging in agricultural activities including grape harvesting and wine making.  He would have been a good friend to have at parties!

Howard Carter House – he discovered the intact tomb of Tutankhamun

To learn about the mummification process at the Mummification Museum. Visit the Howard Carter House. He was the British archeologist who discovered the Tomb of King Tut in November of 1922. His house was kept intact with his personal items and photographs. Behind his house is a replica of King Tut’s Tomb.

Scarab beetle carving for sale in the Souk

The Luxor Souk, or market, has goods ranging from traditional crafts and textiles to spices and produce. Find traditional handicrafts like hand-woven carpets, colorful tapestries, intricate wood carvings and stunning pottery. Alabaster, a high quality stone, is used to make beautiful sculptures, vases and lamps. You can find intricately designed jewelry from precious metals and gemstones.

Take a hot air balloon ride over the city and the surrounding area, or take a felucca ride on the Nile.

Reach out to GetAway Travel at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Vienna Calling! GetAway Travel is Cruising into Exciting Adventures!

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Hey Travel Buddies!

Guess what? Your favorite travel advisors at GetAway Travel are packing our bags and heading to Vienna for the ASTA 2025 River Cruise Conference! Think of it as a treasure hunt for the most amazing river cruise experiences, and we’re bringing back the gold!

Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

Why should you care? Because while we’re drinking Grüner Veltliner and exploring the Danube’s secrets, we’re doing it all for YOU!

Here’s why this trip is going to be epic for your future adventures:

  • Insider Access: We’ll be chatting with the top river cruise lines, uncovering hidden gems and exclusive deals that you won’t find anywhere else. Think of us as your personal river cruise spies!
  • First-Hand Knowledge: Forget brochures! We’ll be learning about the latest and greatest itineraries, onboard experiences, and shore excursions. We’ll be able to tell you if that chocolate tasting in Passau is really worth it (spoiler alert: it probably is!).
  • Tailored Adventures: Want a wine-themed cruise down the Rhine? A history-packed journey through Eastern Europe? Or maybe a Christmas market extravaganza? We’ll be gathering all the info to create the perfect river cruise just for you!
  • Fun & Festivities: Vienna is a city of music, art, and delicious pastries. We’ll be soaking up the atmosphere and bringing back that vibrant energy to inspire your next vacation. Prepare for stories of waltzes, schnitzel, and maybe even a surprise encounter with a Lipizzaner horse!  Spoiler alert – we saw the horses on our last trip to Vienna and they are amazing to behold!
  • Exclusive Perks: We will be working to secure exclusive perks for our clients. Think upgrades, onboard credits, and special experiences that will make your river cruise even more unforgettable.
  • Exotic River Discoveries: We will be scouting out spectacular river cruise opportunities in unique and exotic destinations. For example, imagine sailing down the Nile in Egypt or exploring the Mekong River in Southeast Asia We’ll be bringing back the inside scoop on these incredible journeys!

Karlskirche, Vienna

So, get ready to set sail with GetAway Travel! We’ll be returning with a treasure trove of river cruise knowledge and a burning desire to plan your next incredible adventure.

For updates from Vienna – follow us on our Facebook page

Luxor steeped in amazing historic experiences

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The “world’s largest open-air museum” is a fitting description of Luxor, Egypt. The country was ruled by pharaohs who each tried to outdo a past ruler with lavish lifestyles. Even in death, the pharaohs paid homage to the lavish style with tombs that befitted their stature. Visitors can get a glimpse into how the pharaohs and their subjects lived with the help of carvings, frescoes and stunning paintings preserved in the tombs. The Valley of Kings, the Valley of Queens, the Karnak Temple Complex — monuments, tombs, sphinxes and temples — there is mystery and exotic adventures everywhere in Luxor.

Ballooning over Luxor

Luxor is one of GetAway Travel’s stops in our 2026 Egypt cruise. You can join us, or our travel advisors would be happy to help plan a vacation now if you’re up for an adventure!

Legendary burial sites

 Luxor is one of, if not the world’s largest archeological sites. In ancient times, Thebes, was the imperial capital and it was split by the Nile River, essentially creating the City of the Living and the City of the Dead. The East bank, or the City of the Living, now Luxor, is where the majority of people lived. The West bank served as a necropolis — a lavish resting place for royalty and nobility.

Aerial view – Luxor west bank

The sharply delineated hills of the West bank once harbored countless treasures. Pharaohs were buried in elaborate tunnels carved into the hills and cliffs and decorated with paintings, carvings and frescoes. Their mummified bodies were laid to rest covered in gold and jewels and their tombs were filled with their worldly possessions.

Luxor temple at Thebes on the east bank

Tombs, sadly, were looted and deteriorated as a result of environmental conditions in the Valley of Kings, Valley of Queens and the Valley of Artisans, but the intricate set-ups and decorations are still stunning feats of architecture. We’re not talking little dusty burial chambers, the interiors are large, the tunnel work is amazing and “decoration” means the interiors are decorated wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling.

Tomb of Seti First, Valley of the Kings, Luxor

Pharaohs, queens, high nobility, children of the elite were buried in burial chambers with temples nearby. The temples honored gods, but also the subject in the tomb and it chronicled their exploits.

Temples, tombs, monuments

 The largest and most impressive collection of temple ruins is actually on the East bank of the Nile. The Karnak Temple Complex is supposedly where creation began. Pharaohs added to the areas as they rose in power. The 250-acre site has been “under construction” for 4,000 years. There are multiple temples, two obelisks, hieroglyphs and a sacred lake. The Great Hypostyle Hall is a little less than an acre of 134 massive, intricately decorated columns supporting a roof.

Ruins of Karnak Temple

The Karnak is connected to the Luxor Temple by the Avenue of Sphinxes.

Just imagine, more than 1,000 statues on a two-mile avenue each hand carved and each the same distance from the other. What a marvel of engineering! There are sphinxes, criosphinxes (lion head on a ram’s body) and ram statues.

Avenue of the Sphinx, Luxor

Between Karnak and the Luxor Temple is the Luxor Heritage Center. Here interactive exhibits document the country’s history from ancient times to the present. Select archeological pieces are on display here. The Luxor Museum has old and new kingdom artifacts. You can see the statue of Tuthmosis III, items that were buried with King Tut, statues found under the Temple of Luxor and two royal mummies. Videos show the process of making papyrus and how to write hieroglyphs.

Seated statue of Pharaoh Thutmosis III

The history of the Luxor Temple makes it a necessary spot to visit. Three religions are intertwined on the site. Incredibly beautiful, it started as a temple to the cult of Amun, became a Coptic Church and then a mosque was built on the ruins.

Luxor Temple

The Great Court of Ramses is in the Luxor Temple. The walls are adorned with the names and titles of Ramses’ 17 sons. During a 1989 restoration, 26 statues were uncovered that were apparently buried by priests.

Ramses II in Great Court, Luxor

The Valley of Kings is nearby. Dozens of pharaoh are laid to rest here with more than 63 tombs excavated including the tombs of King Tut, Ay and Ramses VI. Close to the entrance of the Valley of Kings is the Colossi of Memnon, a pair of 59-foot-high statues more than 3,300 years old. Considered the largest and most significant statues in Egypt, the 800-ton statues depict King Amenhotep III seated on his throne with his mother and wife next to his legs and the God of the Nile depicted on side panels.

Colossi of Memnon

One of the most spectacular features of the Valley of Kings is the Temple of Hatshepsut. Pharaoh Hatshepsut was a woman, thought to be one of the most successful rulers of Egypt, she governed for about 20 years and she is the only female pharaoh buried in the Valley of Kings. Her temple is a jaw-dropping architectural marvel. Carved into the stark hillside are three tiers of porticos with statues, pillars and hieroglyphs. There are three chapels inside and two ramps connect the lower terrace of the temple to the upper terrace.

Temple of Hatshepsut

Many of the tombs in the nearby Valley of Queens have been ransacked, but the beautiful, bright paintings on the walls are worth a visit. There are 75 royal tombs here — queens, princesses and princes were buried here as well as Queen Nefertari, whose resting place is gorgeous. No, that’s not a typo, it IS Queen Nefertari, not to be confused with Queen Nefertiti. They ruled about a dynasty apart.

Queen Nefertari and the god Horus

Deir el-Medina, or the Valley of Artisans, gives visitors a view of the workers who toiled to build the royal tombs. A lovely little temple, dedicated to the Egyptian goddess of love and truth is here as well as several tombs.

Luxor temple in Luxor

Luxor is a part of GetAway Travel’s 2026 Egyptian adventure, but if you’re interested in experiencing the mystery and majesty of Egypt sooner, we’re ready to help with that trip. Stay tuned for more blogs on other fascinating Egyptian destinations included in GetAway’s itinerary. And, read on for some short “snapshots” of other Luxor points of interest. Contact GetAway at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Berlin blends past and present

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All free men, wherever they may live, are citizens of Berlin, and therefore, as a free man, I take pride in the words “Ich bin ein Berliner!“    John F. Kennedy, 1963

Oberbaum Bridge, Berlin

Germany’s capital city has a vibrant cultural and art scene. It has overcome its difficult past with resiliency and grace — preserving iconic landmarks and not forgetting lessons taught by history. It is nine times bigger than Paris, has more waterways than Venice, three UNESCO World Heritage sites, its own beer, its own snack and its own doughnut! How about it? Ready for GetAway Travel to make you a Berliner?

Hit the island for some museum time

 Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site with five world-class museums encompassing 6,000 years of history and art. Museum Island, or Spree Island, is in the heart of Berlin between the River Spree and Spree Canal. It is easily accessible.

Museum Island

With five museums to choose from, you can pick your art interests. One of the museums, the Pergamonmuseum, is closed until 2027 for renovations. But there are plenty of options in the other four.

Altes Museum in Winter

The Altes Museum was built by order of King Frederick William III and its considered a major example of German Neo-classical architecture. Here you can find Greek antiquities Fromm the 10th to the First century. There’s early portraits of Caesar and Cleopatra, stone sculptures, vases, craft objects, jewelry, gemstones, coins, urns and tablets.

Classic hallways of the Neues museum in Berlin

The Neues Museum building is a blend of old and new. Heavily damaged during WWII, the remains were used in the new construction. There are bullet holes, chipped paint and the ceilings are partially destroyed. The Egyptian collection, including the famous bust of Queen Nefertiti are housed here. Included in the 9,000 objects are a burial chamber from Egypt dating back to around 2500 BC, art, artifacts, statues, vessels and manuscripts.

Alte Nationalgalerie museum

Art from the period of the French Revolution and WWI are in the Alte Nationalgalerie museum. Browse among paintings done by Adolph Menzel, Sabine Lepsius, Dora Hitz, Manet, Monet, Renoir, Degas and Cézanne.

Bode Museum on Museum Island

The Bode-Museum is renowned for its Byzantine art and coin collection. There are glazed terracottas by Luca della Robbia and masterworks by Donatello da Settignano.

Berlin Palace (Humboldt Forum)

The Humboldt Forum is also on Museum Island. Originally built as an imperial palace in the 15th century, it now has exhibits dedicated to human history, arts and culture.

Many of the artifacts are displayed in context. The Berlin Global exhibit examines Berlin’s impact on the world referencing categories such as entertainment, revolution and fashion. A Nature Exhibit looks at the interplay of climate change and democracy around the world.

More museums, historic sites, palaces

Charlottenburg Palace

Charlottenburg Palace was build in 1699 as a summer retreat for Sophie Charlotte, wife of King Fredrich I. The massive, multi-wing Baroque style structure as damaged in WWII and then restored and rebuilt through several decades. The reconstructed rooms feature ornate plasterwork, gilding, frescoes, all from original designs. There are priceless collections of silver, crown jewels and royal porcelain. The 18th century paintings include works from French masters. The gardens are fabulous. Designed in English and French styles, there are fountains, ponds, tree-lined paths and hedges.

Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin’s most famous monuments. The Neo-classical arch is the only one of 14 that remains in the city. About a block from the arch is the Holocaust Memorial or the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. The maze of 2,711 concrete blocks is a stark, modernistic, abstract reminder of the 2.6 million Jews who were victims of the Nazis. There is a museum/information center at the memorial.

Section of Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall Memorial is an indoor/outdoor museum and memorial. The one-mile stretch along Bernaur Strasse is an open air exhibit that includes photographs, signs and a preserved piece of the original wall. One of the original watchtowers is there and an indoor center has exhibits chronicling the historical and political events around the wall. The East Side Gallery is also a wall memorial. The stretch of Berlin Wall runs parallel to the Spree River. The concrete canvas has murals from 118 artists from 21 different countries.

Berlin Cathedral on the river Spree

The Berlin Cathedral is a 19th century church that fronts the Spree River on Museum Island. It is one of the largest religious landmarks in the city. The Protestant church is a mix of Italian, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. The cathedral’s most striking feature is the 374-foot high dome topped with a gilded cross.

Entertainment, snacks, etc.

 The Mauerpark Flea Market is located in Wall Park, The largest and best outdoor market in the city gets going every Sunday. Visitors can buy anything and everything there and also enjoy jugglers, have a picnic and participate in the giant karaoke party at Bearpit Karaoke.

Escalators at KaDeWe

Speaking of shopping, Berlin is home to Europe’s largest department store, KaDeWe.

The Berghain used to be a power station. This gigantic warehouse draws techno music fans from all over the world for three-day pulse-pounding music extravaganzas every weekend.

Giraffes at the Berlin Zoo

Tiergarten is a 519-acre oasis of green that used to be a royal hunting ground. Now its a series of lakes, bike paths, English gardens and the very romantic beer garden, Café am Neuen See. The Berlin Zoo is here and there’s a great panda exhibit.

Prater Garten is Berlin’s oldest beer gardens. Sit at the communal tables or benches, people watch and enjoy a bratwurst, Bavarian pretzel and, of course, a beer. Bratwurst is ordered either spicy or standard.

Berlin has its own specialty beer, Berliner Weiße, this slightly sour brew is made with wheat and barley. It has a high acid content and can be served with a shot of either raspberry or woodruff syrup.

Currywurst is a Berlin snack with a cult following. Get it at restaurants or from street vendors. The fried sausage is sliced, doused with tomato sauce, dusted with curry powder and served with bread or a roll. There is a vegan option.

If you are a late-night snacker, there are 1,000 kiosks around the city that dispense food, snacks and beverages.

Ooooh, pretzels, warm, golden brown served plain or with coarse salt. They are also served with cheese sauce, sesame seeds and even sunflower seeds.

Berliner Pfannkuchen

Then there’s the Pfannkuchen. This sweet, yeasty beauty of a filled doughnut is known as a Berliner or Krapfen in the rest of Germany. Topped with powdered sugar, the pfannkuchen can be filled with chocolate creme, but is most often filled with marmalade.

Ready to “be a Berliner?” The travel advisors at GetAway Travel can help you with that! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Cairo: Back to the beginning of civilization

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There is no place in the world, and that’s not an overstatement, that has history, culture and landmarks to match the city of Cairo. It truly is where you can see the start of civilization and, coincidently, it’s the start of GetAway Travel’s Egypt adventure in 2026. There’s nothing stopping you from letting GetAway help you plan a trip there sooner, but we would certainly love to have you join us! With a population of 16 million people, Cairo is a vibrant city that exudes historical significance. There  is no other city in the world with more monuments of religious, military and modern relevance. But then there’s pyramids, camels, mummies, museums, temples and mosques.

Let’s get right to the pyramids

 The pyramids of Giza are one of the wonders of the ancient world. There are actually six pyramids in the Giza Necropolis (burial ground). The pyramid fields, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, actually stretch from Giza to Dashur, about 19 miles, and are all part of the ancient capital city of Memphis. The earliest pyramids were actually built in the Saqqara necropolis, northwest of the ruins of Memphis.

Pharaoh Doser, sometimes referred to as Zoser, started with a flat surface and added six stepped layers to form a 204-foot-high stepped pyramid. Years later, in Dashur, Pharaoh Sneferu tried his hand at a pyramid and he built what is now referred to as the Bent Pyramid. The first attempt to build a pyramid with smooth sides went awry when misplaced weight caused part of it to sink, so it looks bent. Sneferu had better luck with his second pyramid, built of red limestone, it was about 340 feet high, had a 43° angle and it had smooth sides and a point at the top. The sides of the pyramid are supposed to symbolize sunlight while the point shows ascent to the sky.

The Bent Pyramid is one of the best-preserved pyramids from the Old Kingdom and offers a glimpse into the architectural evolution of ancient Egypt.

Sneferu’s son, using his father’s research, had even better luck. Khufu built the next pyramid, the great pyramid in the Giza fields, at a 52° angle, it was 481 feet high with smooth sides. Time and erosion have caused some of the earlier pyramids to crumble and the pyramids that remain to shrink due to the limestone flaking off and blowing away. Khufu’s son, Khafre built his pyramid by his father’s and one-upped everyone by adding the sphinx. Well, played Khafre.

The Great Sphinx of Giza is an incredible monument!

It is thought the sphinx was carved from a giant piece of rock uncovered during the building of the pyramids and it was supposed to stand guard over the final resting places. Khafre’s son, Meukaure and his queen have pyramids in the Giza field, too.

Passageway inside a pyramid

Although the large pyramids get all the publicity, there are numerous smaller buildings and private tombs on the field where consorts, public officials and lesser members of the royal families were buried or entombed.

Slaves tomb, GIza

Things to remember, it is going to be dusty, wear comfortable shoes and, don’t skip the pyramids. They are awe-inspiring, breathtaking monuments and seeing them is so, so worth it.

Cairo is more than pyramids

 Cairo has had a pivotal, central role in religious and cultural development for the country. The city’s historic district, Old Cairo, has the world’s highest concentration of Islamic architecture.

Old Cairo district

You can’t help but notice an example of that architecture. The Citadel of Salah al-Din dominates the skyline of Cairo. Set on a rocky hill, its huge dome and minarets are always visible. The citadel has several venues on the grounds including the Alabaster Mosque or the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. It has distinctive domes and very high minarets. It has a huge solid marble pulpit, the largest in the country, and the sun reflects off the gilt and crystal-covered surfaces.

Citadel

There are 136 stunning stained-glass windows in the domes and the courtyard is also beautiful. There is a grand fountain and 47 arched doorways to admire there.

Mosque of Muhammad Ali

There are several other mosques on the citadel grounds and a military and interesting carriage museum.

Inside Ben-Ezra Synagogue

There’s ancient churches and amazing synagogues throughout Old Cairo. Ben Ezra Synagogue is one of the most impressive synagogues. According to legends, it was built on the spot where baby Moses was found. There were renovations, expansions and it was finally completed in 1892 and the Turkish influence is quite evident. There is extensive floral work on the inside as well as patterns of stars, rectangles and pentagons on the walls, ceiling and floor.

Church of St. George, old Cairo

The nearby Church of St. George is believed to be where Joseph, Mary and Jesus stayed after they fled from King Herod. Constructed during the 10th century, it was rebuilt after a major fire and is one of the few round churches ever built in Egypt. The country’s principle Greek Orthodox Church, it was built over the ruins of an old Roman tower and you can still see the remnants of the tower inside. The interior features beautiful stained glass and rich, dark wood.

The Hanging Church, Cairo

The Hanging Church is one of the oldest and largest churches in Egypt. It’s the hanging church because it is located above an ancient Roman fortress gate. Thought to have been built around 690 AD, it houses a stunning collection of icons. Many of the 110 icons are made of ebony inlaid with ivory. They feature Mary, Jesus, Archangels Michael and Gabriel, St. Peter, St. Paul and John the Baptist. The domed roof was designed to mimic Noah’s Ark.

The Egyptian Museum has more than 100,000 artifacts, the largest Egyptian collection in the world The Royal Mummies room, which requires an additional fee, has mummies of 17 kings and three queens.

Pharoah Thutmose III, Egyptian Museum

The creative economy of the city is based on folk art and crafts and Cairo is a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Crafts and Folk Art. Artisans work hard to preserve the cultural heritage in all areas including glassblowing, copper smithing, pottery, ceramics and jewelry. At the Khan El-Khalifli market, you can find a treasure trove of fabulous craft and artisan items. In ancient times, the market was the last stop on the trade route.

Whether you want to travel to Cairo with GetAway in 2026, or you want to plan a separate adventure, our travel advisors can help you out. Check back for more blogs giving details on other parts of Egypt we’ll be exploring. We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Enjoy the Netherlands with a river cruise

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Taking a river cruise in the extensive river and canal system in the Netherlands opens up the country in a fascinating, new way. View architectural marvels, feats of amazing engineering, windmills and, depending on the time of year, fields of tulips. Unpack once and settle in your cabin, take day excursions and waste less travel time because you sail while you sleep. Since most of the Netherlands’ river cruises have options to connect to the Rhine, that means some time in Belgium and Germany.

Puffy pancakes, flower power, cheese and Delft pottery, how about letting GetAway Travel find you a cruise you’ll love!

Start off in Amsterdam

 Amsterdam has a well-developed cruise port and proximity to an airport, so it makes sense cruises start here. With its Dutch, German and Flemish influences, there is something for everyone to see and enjoy. The museums are fabulous, from shipbuilding to Dutch masters to hemp, there are museums devoted to almost anything.

Amsterdam Cruise Terminal

There are bikes everywhere. The first bike ride share program was invented in Amsterdam. It didn’t last, but the commitment to cycling did.

Keukenhof Gardens is home to the “Greatest Flower Show on Earth” each Spring. Seven million flowers on 70 acres — everyone agrees it IS the greatest flower show. There’s tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, lilies, bluebells and crocuses. The blooms form lovely swaths of color along paths and the brooks. There are at least 100 varieties of tulips in the fields here.

The Keukenhof Gardens, known as the “Garden of Europe,” actually hosts over 7 million tulip bulbs annually.

From Amsterdam most cruises hit the following cities and offer a variety of free shore excursions as well as some that cost a small fee.

Hoorn, Enkhuizen, Kinderdijk

Hoorn

Throw a rock and you’ll hit a monument in Hoorn, a quaint city founded in 1300. It was named for the horn-shaped harbor along the Ijsselmeer, an artificial lake created by dam construction. Prior to access to the North Sea being blocked, Hoorn was a bustling port city and one of the Dutch East India Co. six home bases. It boasts 1,000 monuments, charming cobblestone streets and cheese warehouses.

Enkhuizen was a small fishing village, but during the 17th century it became the center of maritime trade. That ended when the North Sea inlet was sealed off with a dam. Still, there’s some pretty impressive landmarks here. The Drommedaris is the former city gate and watchtower. It’s the city’s most famous building, but the Gothic-style hall church from the 15th century it’s also pretty cool The floor consists of gravestones.

Enkhuizen Drommedaris

Take a short ferry ride to the Zuiderzee Museum.The outdoor museum is a traditional village showcasing the culture and maritime history of the city. There’s 140 buildings on site including workshops, a fish smokery and a home from the 1920s. Taste local cheeses and smoked fish.

Zuiderzee Museum

Get your windmill fix in Kinderdijk. This area of South Holland was shaped by the Rhine Delta waters. There are 19 well-preserved 18th century windmills here. The village is surrounded by polders, tracts of land reclaimed from the sea using windmills. Here, learn all things windmills, why they were built, how they operate and see the mechanical workings as well as living quarters inside,

Idyllic Kinderdijk

Dordrecht, Delft and Gouda

The famous Delft Blue

 The Netherlands loves its monuments, indeed, there are hundreds in Dordrecht. The oldest city in Holland has a stunning inner city and along the harbor, grand warehouses have been transformed into elegant homes. The Grote Kerk, or Church of Our Lady, is the largest church in the city. Restored in Gothic architectural style, it is beautiful and the tower at its side contains 67 bells. Climb the tower (more than 200 stairs, be warned) for amazing views of the area.

Town of Drodrecht

A scenic drive/shore excursion, takes you to Delft. Royal Delft is the last remaining earthenware factory left over from the 17th century. Watch the centuries-old process to create the pottery. The 400-plus year-old factory is set up as a museum. You can score some of this sought-after pottery in the gift shop.

Eastern Gate in Delft

Perhaps you’d like to visit Gouda as a shore excursion? Surprise, Gouda is not made here, but stroopwafels are. Gouda Cheese is actually made all around Gouda, and it was brought to the weigh station in Gouda where taxes were levied depending on the weight. The Gouda city council had strict rules on the manufacture. Now, a cheese museum is in the weigh house.

Gouda cheese

 

Next door is St. John’s Church, the longest church in the Netherlands, it has a fabulous collection of stained glass windows. The stained glass is considered the most significant collection in the country.

Clocktower at St John’s church in Gouda

The stroopwafel was invented here and workshops are offered for visitors. What is a stroopwafel? It is two crispy cookies pressed into a waffle pattern held together with tasty toffee syrup. Yum.

Nijmegen, Maastricht, Antwerp and Wesel

 Home to one of the Netherlands largest universities, Nijmegen has an eclectic, vibrant blend of sidewalk cafés, unique eateries, and quaint shops that show off the city’s artistic bent. Indeed, you can trace the steps of Van Gogh who lived in nearby Nuenen the early 1880s and created more than 195 paintings. The Vincentre Museum has a great audiovisual presentation on Van Gogh and his time in Nuenen.

Nijmegen

The Noordbrabants Museum is home to an extensive collection of Dutch art — from Hieronymus Bosch to Van Gogh. Take a beer break at Brouwerij de Hemel. A brewing pioneer, learn all about the process as well as how to distill spirits. Try a flight and some snacks.

Maastricht is one of the Netherlands oldest and most picturesque cities.There are 1,677 Heritage buildings here and the lovely inner city is car-free.  The Maastricht Treaty was signed here in the early 1990s, establishing the euro as the single European currency. In nearby Margraten is the American Military Cemetery where 4,800 Americans who lost their lives during the march into Germany after D-Day, are buried.

Aerial view of Maastricht

Depending on your cruise, you may get a chance to go to Antwerp. Diamonds and chocolate! What’s not to like? Diamond cutters abound, next to shops with fabulous chocolates.

Grote Markt in Antwerp

Wesel, Germany might also be on your itinerary. An important trading center which reached its peak in the 15th century, Wesel nearly surpassed Cologne as a major commercial presence. Visit the lovely Willibrod Cathedral.

Rhine river near Wesel

Tulips, Van Gogh, tasty cookies and some great cheese all while relaxing on a great ship moving down the river. Interested? Contact GetAway Travel and an advisor will help schedule your cruise.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tour the castles of “Mad King” Ludwig II – “The Fairytale King”

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Southern Bavaria has some great attractions, but few can compare to the castles of King Ludwig II. If you are spending time in Munich or Salzburg, it’s worth a day trip or two to check out the castles. If you are in Munich, you can start your adventure by checking out the Moon King’s boyhood home.

Munich

Thrown into power at age 18, Ludwig II longed to be as awesome as Louis XIV, but sadly, his country had neither the budget nor the patience to let the boy king plow ahead with fabulous construction projects that threatened to bankrupt the monarchy.

King Ludwig II (1845-1886)

Fascinated by art, history, literature, opera and composer Richard Wagner, he didn’t travel much, but longed to emulate places he had read about. He wrote in his diary: “I want to remain an eternal mystery to myself and others.”

Ludiwg Otto Friedrich Wilhelm – Ludwig II of Bavaria – ascended the throne at the age of 18.

Declared incompetent at age 40, he was found mysteriously drowned just days later, along with the psychiatrist that declared him incompetent. His younger brother Otto, whom he had bequeathed the monarchy to upon his death, was immediately declared mentally ill and Ludwig II’s uncle ascended to the throne.

Neuschwanstein

If you are up for touring castles with features that are stunning, remarkably high-tech, and always awe-inspiring, GetAway Travel is ready to set up your itinerary so you can soak up the ambiance of the ill-fated boy king and his many residences.

A fairytale without an ending

 Ludwig left his mark on a number of castles and properties. He built three castles, but spent quite a bit of time living in manors and alpine retreats. His most famous castle was built last, but not finished before he died. Neuschwanstein, or New Swan Stone Castle, near the border of Austria, was constructed in the Romanesque Revival style. It looks like a castle that just appeared in a fairytale and it so charmed Walt Disney, he used it as a model for Sleeping Beauty’s castle

Ludwig and Otto spent a large part of their childhood at Hohenschwangau Castle and from there Ludwig could see castle ruins on the opposite hill. There, he vowed, he would build his dream castle in the style of the authentic German knights’ castles. The castle was to be his personal retreat and honor composer Richard Wagner.

Hohenschwangau Castle

Ludwig concerned himself with every detail of Newuschwanstein, from the murals to the dishes. Construction proved to be quite a bit of an endeavor. Because he wanted it perched on the hillside, it took a serious quantity of explosives to blow through 27 feet of solid rock to set the castle foundation. His use of steel T-beams and plastered cast-iron pipes was modern for that time.

Singers Hall in Neuschwanstein Castle

The castle is decorated in Wagner opera themes. The dining room murals are scenes from the Wartburg Singers Festival. The bedroom has scenes depicting the doomed love affair between Tristan and Isolde on the carvings on the oak walls. The story of Tannhauser is showcased on the walls of the study and Lohengrin, Ludwig’s hero, and Lohengrin’s swans, are everywhere! They are painted on the walls, carved into the ceiling and door arches, cast in porcelain and woven into tapestries.

He had a fake grotto with fake stalactites constructed where he could enjoy performances of Wagner’s operas. Here, as he did in other residences, gardens were constructed so he could look out the windows and enjoy them, and they would block the outside world.

Richard Wagner (1813-1883) one of the world’s most influential & controversial composers

The throne room is the centerpiece of the castle. In the Byzantine style, it’s decor was inspired by St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul. More than two million small tiles are used on the floor to illustrate forest animals and the columns, with gilded tops, are painted to appear that they are made of bright lapis lazuli.

Neuschwanstein Throne Room

It was not finished before he died and sadly, he spent only 11 nights sleeping there.

Herrenchiemsee Palace, Ludwig’s Versaille

 Ludwig juggled multiple projects, much to the consternation of those watching the monarchy’s funds, and he began building Herrenchiemsee Palace in 1878. A great admirer of France’s Sun King, Louis XIV, Ludwig wanted a castle that matched the opulence and panache of Versailles. He also wished to rule like Louis XIV, without constitutional restraints.

Herrenchiemsee island

The island of Herrenchiemsee was purchased from timber barons who hadn’t managed to harvest trees there as they had planned. Constructing a castle on an island in the middle of Lake Chiemsee had its challenges. The lake was very wide and deep and tugboats were used to haul construction materials to the island. Steam-driven pumps were installed to power the extensive array of water features around the palace.

Herrenchiemsee palace

Ludwig’s “must haves” for the palace included the Hall of Mirrors, modeled after the Versailles hall, and the Latona Fountain.

Latona fountain

The wishing table, from the Grimm’s Fairy Tale of the same name, was installed in the dining room. It was a table that would be set with dishes and a meal and rise up through the floor so Ludwig didn’t have to be bothered with interacting with servants. Rumor has it that the table was set for imaginary guests that Ludwig would converse with during the meal.

Herrenchiemsee Palace

The monumental marble staircase is under a roof constructed of iron and glass. This was new for that time and, a special system was designed to heat water and interior rooms by Ludwig. A special system could lower the spectacular chandeliers so they could be cleaned and serviced.

Twelve rooms of the palace are set up as a museum detailing the story of Ludwig II in portraits, busts, historical photos, furniture and clothing. The exhibits also explore Ludwig’s patronage of Wagner in portraits, documents and model theaters and set design.

Main fountain pool at Linderhof

Linderhof, his only completed castle

 The smallest of the three castles, this was the only palace he completed. Built in the 18th century Rococo style, it was originally a humble hunting lodge used by his father. Ludwig moved it on the property to allow for a bigger footprint and then transformed it into a close replica of Marie Antoinette’s chateau that was on the grounds of Versailles.

Linderhof Palace

Technological marvels included a wishing table, that elevated from the kitchen to the dining room and electric lights in the Venus Grotto he had constructed. There was a water heater, wave machine and rumor has it, attendants were ordered to wrangle wild swans into the grotto so Ludwig could float on a mussel-shaped boat in the water and enjoy his favorite fowl.

Linderhof

Bavaria’s first electricity was used here to power the lights in the grotto, the wave machine and the fountain.

Linderhof interior

Ludwig renovated the King’s House on Schachen into an opulent Turkish style den. He re-designed the Munich residence, the Residenz, the largest city palace in Germany. There are ceiling frescoes, a beautiful fountain and courtyard sculptures and an antique collection. He was born in Nymphenburg Palace in Munich. There are several museums on the grounds including ones that house his carriage collection and his sleigh collection. He would go for night-time sleigh rides and had elaborate sleighs equipped with battery-operated light bulbs. He received guests at, and renovated Rose Island in Lake Starnberg. The new palace there wasn’t completed, but the villa is surrounded by fabulous gardens.

Rose Island on Lake Starnberg

In your travels to Bavaria, do make sure you check out the residences and castles of the ill-fated  mad king — a travel advisor at GetAway Travel can include that in your travel adventure! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

Estonia packed with possibilities

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A hop, skip and a boat or plane ride from Finland or Sweden takes you to Estonia on the Baltic Sea. Estonia boasts more than 1,500 islands, beautiful beaches where you can surf or swim, castles, churches, hilltop fortresses, craft beer and fabulous fruity wines. Still not convinced? From June through August the sun hardly sets, there are amazing music festivals that draw acts from all over the world, there’s a great university town and throw a rock and you’ll hit a fascinating museum. Contact GetAway Travel and we’ll help you punch that ticket to Estonia.

Tallinn old town

Tallinn, a capital steeped in history

 An important trading center in the Middle Ages, Tallinn is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. Home to more than 50 museums, there are lovely old buildings around the square and you can’t miss the onion-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This Orthodox Church was constructed in 1900, across from Toompea Castle as a demonstration of Russian supremacy.

Tallinn, Estonia

There are some interesting mosaic panels over the entrances of the church and the church towers have an incredible ensemble of bells including one that is 15 tons.

Christmas Market – Estonia

St. Nicholas Church, one of the most famous and beautiful churches in Tallinn, is no longer a place of worship. Originally dedicated to the patron saint of seafarers and merchants, it now is known as the Niguliste Museum. It holds a vast collection of church art from altars and gravestones to silver pieces. There is also part of Bernt Notke’s “Dance of Death” painting on display. The observation deck offers great views of the area.

St Nicholas Church, Tallinn

The oldest medieval building in the city is St. Olaf’s Church. Dedicated to the king of Norway, it served as the center for Tallinn’s Scandinavian community. Climb to the top of the 196-foot spire for some fabulous views of the city. It should be on a day when you are feeling particularly fit — there are 234 stone steps to get to the top.

St Olaf Church, Tallinn

Museums for miles

There are no lack of museums in the city and no lack of unique museums. The Estonia Open Air Museum has authentic historic houses from all over the country. There are log homes, temporary homes used by nomadic fishermen from Hiiumad (one of the islands of Estonia), wooden windmills, a chapel and a Soviet-era collective farm.

Estonia Open Air Museum

Seaplane Harbor is one of Europe’s most interesting museums. The maritime museum is in a seaplane hangar and it features all types of vessels that sailed on and below the sea. Included in the more than 200 items on display is a century-old icebreaker, a seaplane, remains of the oldest ship found in Estonia and a 195-foot submarine built in England for the Estonian Navy. The Lembit is the only Estonian submarine warship constructed before WWII to survive. You can walk through the submarine, from the engine room to the sleeping quarters. The interactive displays offer great photo options, like piloting a seaplane, wearing a lifejacket, sitting in a dinghy, sit in a sailboat… etc.

The marina at Seaplane Harbor

Don’t worry about sending the pics to friends. There are free wi-fi hot spots everywhere in Estonia. As a matter of fact, the country is the birthplace of Skype and Hotmail.

Kadriorg Art Museum is inside Kadriorg Castle. This stunning example of Baroque architecture was built by Czar Peter I for Catherine the Great. The immaculate grounds have lovely manicured gardens with ornate fountains and sculptures. The museum has an extensive collection of Russian and European art from the 6th to 20th century.

Kadriorg Castle, Estonia

You can take an archery lesson if you visit the ruins of Haapsalu Castle. There are turreted towers and walls still standing as well as creepy tunnels to go through if you are so inclined.  A museum is devoted to the history of the castle. It is supposedly haunted by the White Lady who is visible on the walls just past sunset. One cool feature of the castle grounds is the children’s playground which has a pirate ship for them to explore.

Haapsalu Castle, Estonia

The oldest cafe in Tallinn is Maiasmokk and its home to the Marzipan Museum. Marzipan, an almond paste mixed with confectioners sugar, was supposedly invented in Estonia. In addition to the museum, you can learn all about the sweet at Kalev Chocolate Factory where you can sculpt your own marzipan figurine.

Marzipan

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Three Words to Savor: Osteria, Trattoria, and Ristorante

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When dining in Italy, you’ll hear three magical words that promise a delicious experience: Osteria, Trattoria, and Ristorante. While they all mean “places to eat,” each one offers its own vibe and flavor of Italian culture. Think of it as a journey from rustic charm to refined elegance. Let’s break them down so you can find your perfect Italian table!

🍷 Osteria – Cozy, Casual, and Full of Charm

Picture this: a no-frills, cozy spot where the wine flows, the locals gather, and the menu is short but oh-so-satisfying. Traditionally, osterie were simple taverns serving up hearty, affordable dishes. Today, they still keep things laid-back with comfort food, often highlighting seasonal, local ingredients. It’s all about relaxed vibes and big flavors. If you want to feel like you’ve stumbled into a friend’s kitchen, an osteria is your go-to.

🍝 Trattoria – The Heart of Family Dining

A trattoria is like the warm hug of Italian dining—still informal, but with a touch more structure. Often family-run, these spots serve up generous portions of classic Italian fare. You’ll get friendly service, fresh ingredients, and dishes that are simple but perfectly executed. Think homemade pastas, local meats, and seafood. A trattoria is where you go to feast like a local and leave blissfully full.

🍽️ Ristorante – Where Elegance Meets Italian Flavor

Ready to elevate your dining experience? A ristorante is the most formal of the three. Expect polished service, elegant décor, and menus with a sophisticated twist. From appetizers to desserts, dishes are often artfully presented and prepared with finesse. Whether it’s an upscale affair or a slightly more casual venue, a ristorante is where Italian cuisine puts on its fancy shoes. And don’t forget to browse the wine list—you might just discover your new favorite vintage.

Ready to dine like an Italian? No matter what kind of experience you crave, Italy’s dining scene has a seat just for you. Buon appetito!

Enjoy Bordeaux and beyond on a cruise

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Fine wine, fabulous vineyards, quaint villages and landscape steeped in history and stunning cathedrals await visitors to the Bordeaux region of France. Enjoy a carefree adventure with a relaxing river cruise. Unpack once, no transportation worries and adventures galore await travelers to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Drink wine and try fine cognac during your vacation to what is truly one of the world’s most famous wine destinations. GetAway Travel can help you select your cruise destinations. Itineraries vary slightly, but all emphasize a stay in “brilliant Bordeaux.”

Bordeaux, the crown jewel of the trip

Vineyards as far as the eye can see, three stunning cathedrals, amazing monuments, and spectacular chocolatiers, Bordeaux has something for everyone. The world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bordeaux is often referred to a “little Paris.”

In addition to being a premier wine destination, the area is it also known for its fine cognac.

Cognac production

Grand mansions and buildings with diverse and fabulous architecture are in the city’s Old Town. The Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux is on the square. It is considered an architectural masterpiece and is now home to the Grand Opera of Bordeaux.

Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux

If you happen to be in the city on a Sunday, don’t miss the Quai des Chartrons, a giant outdoor market with produce, crafts and some great souvenir options.

Do try the chocolate here. Trade with other colonies brought vanilla, sugar, cocoa and spices to the area. The city embraced exiled Spanish jews who in turn taught the fine art of chocolate making to Bordeaux bakers and chocolatiers.

The city is also home the three famous cathedrals, the Church of St. Louis, Basilique Saint-Michel and the Cathedral of St. Andrew.

A Gothic revival church dedicated to King Louis, the Church of Saint Louis has a simple, elegant exterior. The interior is quite impressive. There are lovely sculptures, religious artwork, a golden altar and remarkable stained glass windows from the workshops of Henri Feur and Nicholas Lorin. The organ is on the list of French monuments.

View of Basilique Saint-Michel Bordeaux

Basilique Saint Michel is the largest worship site in Bordeaux. The Gothic church has sculptures of Mary and Jesus inside and amazing stained glass windows. The 374-foot tall bell tower is separate from the church because builders feared it might destabilize the foundation of the church. The marshy ground with lots of subsoil is great for grapes, not so much for stable foundations for heavy buildings.

Basilique Saint-Michel interiror

An optional port excursion for many cruises is a short trip overland to Cognac. It is the only place in France allowed to produce brandy that bears its name. The House of Camus has been producing cognac since 1863 and the fifth generation of the family runs the business. Trace grapes from the harvest to the distillery with museum quality exhibits along the way. Huge workshop tables in the barrel room invite visitors, under the tutelage of a Master Blender, to create your own cognac blend. Only three types of white grapes can be used for cognac, it can only be distilled in copper pots and it must be aged two years in a barrel. Your private blend will be sealed and packaged for travel and you’ll get serving instructions.

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