Category Archives: Cruising

Waffles and Winter Wonderland part 2

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Maybe you are thinking that’s a lot of shopping when you are looking at the itinerary for GetAway Travel’s special curated Belgian Holiday Markets River Cruise , don’t be silly! It’s all in different areas, you get a great cruise and spectacular views and travel adventures. Each market is a bit different, how about carnival games — only it’s breaking water balloons using a bow and arrow? Or how about a once-in-a-lifetime experience shopping in a cave or two? Shopping and the cruise are parts of the experience, but there’s time to explore before the markets open.

Antwerp City Hall at Christmas

Antwerp, Hasselt and Liége

 Antwerp’s market is in the heart of Old Town and the historic building facades are awash with festive light projections. More than 100 stalls are spread across several squares. The ice rink is at Groenplaats Square with the majestic Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Cathedral in the background.

Grote Market, Antwerp

From atop the Ferris wheel the city seems ablaze with lights because of the plethora of illuminations on the facades as well as lighted illuminations.

The shopping chalets surround the skating rink, helping persuade visitors to take a closer look at the knitted products. Olive wood items are also popular.

Cathedral of Our Lady – Antwerp

Antwerp food options, in addition to waffles, there’s potato swirls, empanadas, appelbollen (apple dumplings) and a great variety of meats. There’s also Bolleke (Belgian amber ale), chocolates, truffles and spelculoos, a thin, crunchy heavily spiced shortbread biscuit. Cuberdons are cone-shaped candies with a crystalized outer sugar shell and a gooey center. You should bite the top off and slurp out the insides.

Belgian Cuberdon

Antwerpse handjes are either hand-shaped butter cookies sprinkled with almond flakes, or hand-shaped white, milk or dark chocolates.

Traditionally, the first market to open in Belgium is Hasselt. The ice rink is covered here and children can visit Santa in the Santa Claus house. Santa’s house is a replica of the famous house in Rovaniemi, Finland.

Hasselt

The market has quite the carnival atmosphere with a grand carousel, ghost house and fun house. There’s the traditional ring toss game, but you can try out your archery skills by trying to hit the water balloons at one of the booths.

Waffles, always a good choice

This is a market with some great food options. There’s waffles, waterzooi, shrimp croquettes and stoemp which is mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables but it can also include bacon, cream, onions or shallots.

Waterzooi soup

Liége is the oldest market in Belgium. It has a great festive atmosphere and almost 200 shopping chalets. It caters more towards the Germanic traditions.  The market is centered on the Place Saint-Lambert and spreads into the surrounding streets.

Old Town of Liége, Belgium

There is a Ferris wheel, skating rink, sledding hill and photo booths. There is an emphasis on entertainment with opera presentations, magic shows and a European circus complete with a Big Top and a temporary motorcycle racing sphere.

Liége, View from Montagne de Bueren

This is a city celebrated for its food culture. It has its own specialty waffle, the gaufer de Liège which is a dense, caramelized waffle.Try Peket, a gin with juniper flavors, Belgian Owl: a single malt whiskey and boukétes: tasty little buckwheat pancakes.

Maastricht, Valkenburg, Aachen

Two miles from the Belgian border into the Netherlands is Maastricht. The Christmas market is located in Vrijthof Square, surrounded by lovely historic buildings such as the Basilica of St. Servatius. There’s a covered ice rink, a Ferris wheel with glass enclosed gondola seating, a carousel and a fun house.

Maastricht -Vrijthof square Christmas market

There’s some different food options to try out including crêpes, poffertjes (Dutch batter cakes), curry sausage and flammkuchen. Flammkuchen is a thinly rolled out dough covered with cheese or crème fraîche, thinly sliced onions and crispy meat bits.

Don’t call it pizza – it’s flammkuchen

Europe’s largest underground Christmas experience is at Valkenburg where thousands of twinkling lights create a festive atmosphere in two centuries old marlstone caves, Gemeentegrot and Fluweelengrot. There are market stalls, life-size holiday sculptures and it is surely a shopping experience you will never be able to duplicate.

Canal in Valkenburg

Gemeentegrot is the largest underground market and Fluweelengrot, a smaller underground market, is literally a one-minute walk away. There are photo opportunities galore in either market site with the vendor stalls as well a carvings and inscriptions on the walls and Christmas character decorations.

Many of the artisan items are carved of marl stone, a chalky, white rock that is the same thing that the White Cliffs of Dover are made of. You can buy carved candleholders, chess sets and nativity scenes made of marl stone.

Outside of the two markets is Santa’s Village with some additional vendors and more food! Inside or outside you can find fudge, soup, sausage rolls, apple turnovers, meats, gouda cheese and stroopwafels.

Stroopwafel

Aachen’s Christmas market is in historic Old Town by Aachen Cathedral. The more than 130 vendors are clustered around the fabulous cathedral. The oldest cathedral in Northern Europe, is is the burial site for Charlemagne and was the coronation site for more than 30 German kings.    Step inside to see the amazing Byzantine mosaics.

Aachen Christmas Market

There’s plenty of interesting options to fortify yourself with if you get hungry while shopping.

Gingerbread

The definite food star of the market is the Aachener Printen, a hard, spicy gingerbread that comes in a number of different varieties including chocolate covered or with nuts. You can drink mulled wine, hot chocolate with a health dollop of whipped cream, egg nog of mulled cider. Try some reibekuchen, crispy, hot potato pancakes served with applesauce.

Reibekuchen – potato cakes

That’s our Belgian Holiday Markets River Cruise itinerary, and you can join GetAway Travel in 2027 or our advisors can plan your very own Christmas market adventures designed to give you memories that will last a lifetime. We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Waffles and Winter Adventures part 1

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Belgium’s holiday markets transform the country into a festive winter wonderland of twinkling lights, quaint decorated shopping chalets, ice skating rinks, carriage rides and even Ferris wheel rides in the snow. Then there’s the iconic food options, from hot chocolate to mulled wine and, of course, waffles.

You are invited to take a curated Christmas market adventure with GetAway Travel, or we can craft you a holiday adventure of your own! The GetAway option is particularly attractive because it’s a river cruise which means no packing and unpacking. We are going to divide the blogs on our proposed destinations into two parts because there’s a lot to cover.

Some history and tips

 Christmas markets in Europe actually began in the Middle Ages when local citizenry got together, with the blessing of local nobility, to stock up for the cold, lean winter months. They gradually evolved into events where baked goods and crafts were sold, then beverages, then some singing and dancing and then — Christmas markets. In the past only local tradespeople were permitted to sell at the markets so each market had a distinctive regional flare. Although that tradition has been eased up a bit, each market still does pride itself on catering to local tradespeople.

Some of the vendors take credit cards, most do not so bring Euros. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Although you can’t beat the evening atmosphere, it is a bit less crowded in late afternoon to dusk. Remember, the markets open later in the day so you’ve got the morning and afternoon to enjoy other areas of interest in the city.

When you get a beverage, unless it is in a souvenir mug, you are paying a deposit on the cup. There are people who wander the crowds asking for your empty cups and that’s because they are returning them for the deposits. Typically, beverage prices and the deposit amount are listed on the vendor’s menu. Sometimes you also get a token and you must return the cup and the token to the vendor to get your deposit back, or some markets have central drop-off areas.

 

You, of course, can keep any cup or mug you get because after all, you paid for them. Some of them are decorated with the name of the city and date so they make nice souvenirs. It wouldn’t hurt to pack a sheet of bubble wrap or two in your suitcase if you think you are going to be keeping mugs.

Brussels, Ghent and Bruges

 Brussels lays claim to being the largest holiday market in the country. Called Winter Wonders or WInterpret, the market has more than 200 chalets (vendors) as well as a giant Christmas tree, ice rink and a sound and light show at the Grand Palace.

Brussels Grand Place at Christmas

The market is in the heart of the city around the Grand Palace, the Beurs and Saint-Catherine Square. Around the Christmas tree is a nativity and stable scene.

In addition to the huge, festive Ferris wheel, there is also a nostalgic carousel

The Grand Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the town squares, ringed with ornate guild halls, are some of the most beautiful in Europe.

Grand Place, Brussels

The city goes all out for the winter season and it wraps itself in to a festive ball of cheer, chocolates and waffles. In addition to chocolates and waffles, you can also find vendors selling mussels, fries, meatballs, Flemish stew (slow simmered beef or pork with vegetables) shrimp croquettes and paling in het groen which is eel in green herb sauce.

Spanning the historic city center, the Ghent Christmas market has a roller rink. Rent some skates and give it a whirl. There’s usually about 150 vendors to visit and, of course, a Ferris wheel. The view from the top of the 145-foot high Ferris wheel is phenomenal. As an aside, the Ferris wheel is as tall as the Arc d’Triomphe.

Ghent

Thousands of twinkling lights with fairytale decorations are off the square highlighting the three medieval Gothic towers of St. Bravo Cathedral, Ghent Belfry and City Theater.

Gravensteen or Castle of Counts is nearby and it transforms into Winter Wonder Castle during the season of Christmas market. The castle functioned as a court facility, mint and even a cotton mill. Admire the amazing chandeliers, elegantly set dining tables and Christmas decorations. There’s a popular pop-up bar in the stables.

Gravensteen Castle

Vendors sell the tasty oliebollen, a dense yeasty doughnut ball stuffed with raisins, currants or chopped apples. They are served warm and doused in powdered sugar. Nibble on cheese or prawn croquettes, try gentse kop, meat from the head of a pig that is cooked, shredded and set in its natural gelatin. It is seasoned and served on a thick slice on bread. Stoverj is slow stewed beef or pork made with beer and mustard and thickened with bread. Vol-au-vent are small, round pastries filled with a savory mixture of fish or meat in a sauce. Gentse waterzooi is soup with many boiled ingredients and balletje are meatballs simmered in a rich gravy. You can also get churros, roasted chestnuts and there are a number of pop-up bars around the square with everything from champagne to juniper flavored gin.

Oliebollen

The iconic 272-foot Belfry Tower functions as the historic backdrop for the Bruges Christmas market.

Bruges at Christmas

Try tartiflette, a layered treat with potatoes and reblochon cheese, lardons and onions, the beer stew, waffles and, most definitely, try the chips. Bruges has the only potato chip museum in the world.

Tartiflette

If you don’t want to rent some skates and take a turn or two on the ice skating rink, take the Winterglow Walk. There are 10 amazing light installations set up on a walking route.

Bruges has so many canals it is referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Speaking of the ice skating rink, it is actually an artificial rink set up on a pontoon boat on one of the canals.

You can admire the market with a carriage ride around the square, or take a boat ride on the canals around the market.

We don’t know what the weather is like where you are now, but we know winter and shopping wouldn’t be so bad now… stay tuned for the more on our Christmas market getaway.

Colombia cruises open up new areas

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It’s hard to beat a river cruise for a relaxing and interesting vacation. One area that has just opened up, is cruising the Magdalena River in Colombia. The “Land of 1,000 Rhythms” has so much potential, and a river cruise opens up areas that are not easily accessible. Why 1,000 rhythms? Colombia is a country of rich and varied influences and that includes music. Yes, you can literally expect to experience and endless variety of music!

Plus, on your cruise ship you can enjoy superb dining options from chefs who feature local ingredients, tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolates, local rum and Colombian coffee tasting. Interested in visiting this intriguing location? GetAway Travel can get you started.

Magdalena River

Cartagena, capital of the Bolivar region

 On the Caribbean Coast, Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This walled city was the central port of where gold and silver was exported to Spain. It was a favorite site of adventurers as well as pirates. If you take a Magdalena River cruise, it will likely start here. Novelist Gabriel Garcià Márquez called the Magdalena the “River of Life.” Explorers used the river to forge trade and communication routes between the Andes and Caribbean. The river basin area houses 80% of the country’s population.

Cartagena

The hilltop fortress, San Felipe Castle, stands guard at the walls and offers impressive views of the area.

San Felipe Castle

There are hundreds of intricate gold artifacts displaying the workmanship of goldsmiths who showed off their skills at this port city in the Gold Museum.

Historic Gesemani neighborhood

Just outside the walled city is the Getsemani Neighborhood. This lively, Bohemian neighborhood has colorful outside murals, brightly painted buildings and the famous Calle de los Sombrillo or Umbrella Street. Umbrellas, kites and flags hang over the street giving shade to visitors so they can enjoy the street vendors, sidewalk bars, restaurants and, of course, coffee shops.

Colombian Coffee

Colombians love their coffee and they love to share. At the Café del Mural, you can take a coffee class. Enjoy four to five coffee tastings, get a bag of coffee, learn how to discern which are the best coffee beans and immerse yourself in the fine art of coffee brewing. Snacks are supplied!

Cartagena de Indias

A statue commemorating Colombian hero Pedro Romero is just outside the Church of the Holy Trinity. Romero is credited with spearheading Colombia’s bid for independence from Spain as well as being the first non-white military officer.

Church of San Pedro Cartagena

Don’t miss the Boredas Market, it’s a yellow building and it was once a prison. Now, each tiny cell contains a quaint shopping opportunity.

Palenque, Mompox and Magangue

 Palenque is the first “free” town in the Americas. Founded by individuals who fled slavery during colonial times.The slaves were brought to Colombia by the Spanish and forced to work in the coffee fields. The foundation they set is so well preserved it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bright murals around the town commemorate the Afro-Columbian heritage.

Casa Museo teaches the history of the town and culture in photographs and exhibits. Music and dance are an important part of the culture reflecting a unique blend of Spanish, African and indigenous traditions. You can, and should, enjoy music and dance presentations throughout the town.

Santa Cruz de Mompox

Possa Rikombilesa Mi is a music school for local children. It is the headquarters for the international (homegrown) band, Kombilesa Mi. They play a unique music called RFP or Rap Folkloric Palenque. They have played all over the world including at New Orleans Jazz Fest and the Kennedy Center.

Colombia’s most famous boxer, Antonio Cervantes or Kid Pambele hails from Palenque. He was world welterweight champion for much of the 1970s and you can see his statue in the city.

Riverfront in Mompox

Mompox is an island town that is truly frozen in time. Founded in 1540, it still looks like a Spanish colonial village. The Spanish found this village a safe haven from pirates that regularly raided coastal areas. Because it was a safe area, many kept their stores of gold and silver here. The abundance of precious metals drew artisans here and the town became known for stunning filigree jewelry.

The village is surrounded by amazing wetlands and a huge lake packed by flora and fauna.

Stuffed Arepas – yum

Because its cultural and religious heritage is so well preserved, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are five lovely, quaint colonial churches and the Museo de Arle Religioso has religious paintings, sculptures, statutes and silver pieces. The Mompox cemetery is where El Gato (the Cat) is buried. El Gato loved cats so much when he passed away his family kept feeding the cats who lived near his grave. At any given time at least 40 cats are living in the cemetery.

Magdalena River near Mompox

Leaving Mompox to Magangue takes you through the LaMojana Region considered to be the most beautiful stretch of the river.

Magangue is a city surrounded by nature. There is an amazing collection of birds that can only be found in this specific area of the country to see. The Cathedral de Magangue is a great example of colonial architecture.

Nueva Venecia is near Magangue. The floating village is known as “New Venice.” Much of the village area is a sanctuary for native flora and fauna, but villagers sell traditional crafts and demonstrate old-time fishing techniques.

 Barranquilla and carnival

Known as the “Golden Gate” of Colombia, the city is home to notable musicians, writers, artists and the carnival. The Barranquilla Carnival encompasses three centuries of traditions, from the Battle of the Flowers, to the parades to the music and accompanying festivities which actually start weeks before the actual celebration. UNESCO has recognized the carnival as an intangible cultural heritage.

Festival time!

The carnival runs for four days in late February or early March, but pre-celebrations start in January.

Its a wild extravaganza of costumed performers, parades, elaborate floats and cumbia music.

Paisa Tray – Traditional Columbian Food

The Museo Romántico showcases artifacts, including costumes, gowns, crowns, props and floats from past carnivals as well as exhibits on famous Colombians. There are also exhibits on carnivals across the globe — from Rio de Janiero, Santa Cruz and the Port of Spain.

The Museo del Caribe in the city focuses on the geography of the area and Caribbean history.

Barranquila Church

There are a number of huge malls so you can get your last minute souvenir shopping done, the Barranquilla Museum of Modern Art and the lovely baroque style church, the Iglesia de San Nicolás de Tolentino.

Colombia

Ready for the Land of 1,000 Rhythms? GetAway is ready to get you there! We can be reached at: (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

More stops of interest on an Egypt adventure

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GetAway Travel has an Egypt Adventure planned, but these stops of interest would be places to visit on most cruise itineraries in Egypt. Cairo and Luxor are two main stops, but other cities along the way have historical significance and areas steeped in mystery. Temple complexes with interesting carvings, reliefs and sculptures provide fascinating insight into Egyptian thinking. Join GetAway Travel on our Egypt Adventure or let us plan your own trip to the land of pharaohs, temples and pyramids.

Nile River flowing through Cairo, Egypt

Esna and the Temple of Khnum

 Esna was known by the ancient Egyptians as Latopolis, named after the largest of the perch species found in the Nile waters.

Temple of Esna

The Temple of Esna or the Temple of Khnum is dedicated primarily to the water god, Khnum. It is thought this temple is one the last temples built by the Egyptians. Located close to the Nile, it is remarkably well preserved. Villagers used to sit around fires close to the interior of the temple and some of the magnificent carvings because discolored and even hidden due to smoke and soot damage.

Columns in Temple of Esna

A recent restoration project has brought the reliefs back to their original vibrant colors and even has uncovered more details of paintings on the walls. Twenty-four towering columns supported the top of the Hypostyle Hall. They are decorated with intricate carvings of lotus flowers and palms. There are four rows of carvings along the walls showing Ptolemaic and Roman emperors in pharaoh garb offering sacrifices to the God Khnum.

Temple of Khnum Wall Relief showing crocodile god Sobek

Visitors can enjoy a lively market scene and, along the pier, are 19th century homes with elaborate mashrabiya or carved lattice screening on the front windows.

Aswan, the Aswan Dam, Kom Ombo

 Aswan sits on what was once the northern border of ancient Nubia. A UNESCO Creative City of Crafts & Folk Art, visitors can enjoy the Aswan Dance Troupe, Nubian Museum and the Aswan International Symposium of Sculpture. The symposium encourages artists who practice the ancient art of Egyptian granite and stone carving.

Nile River in Aswan

Since ancient times, the Nile had flooded this area, damaging crops and causing food issues. In the 1960s, the Nile was dammed and the Aswan Dam created the 300-mile long Lake Nasser. Lake Nasser is one of the world’s largest artificially created lakes. A small pavilion on the shore has exhibits with information about the dam and its construction.

Philae Temple of Isis on Lake Nasser

Creating the lake necessitated moving a number of archeological treasures. A UNESCO team relocated the Philae Temple complex as well as a number of other temples along the shores of the lake.

Mammisi birth house

The temples of Isis, Mammisi and Hathor are located in the complex. The Temple of Isis is remarkably well preserved and gateways from the temple lead to the other temples. The Temple of Isis is thought to be the last temple constructed in the classic Egyptian style.

Hathor Temple

The Temple of Hathor is known for its elaborate decorations included detailed depictions of ancient gods, hieroglyphs and astronomical ceiling paintings that have retained their vibrancy. Hathor is the goddess of love, fertility and music so there are numerous carvings of musicians with instruments.

The Temple of Mammisi, or birth house, is dedicated to Horus, the son of Isis and Osiris. Part of this temple was re-purposed for a time as a Christian church so there are carvings of crosses in some areas. The walls are decorated with carvings of gods and goddesses associated with childbirth. The depictions of the pharaohs show them making offerings to the gods because Egyptians believed childbirth could be made easier through the offerings.

Temple of Kom Ombo

Kom Ombo is a small town on the Nile surrounded by sugar cane and corn fields. It is home to a large Nubian population, many of whom were displaced when the dam was built. Perched on a hill by the town is the temple dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus. The two temples, under one roof, are constructed in the exact symmetrical fashion. Horus, is the falcon god of the sky and Sobek, who looks like a crocodile, was considered a protective deity that created the world. The temples are identical so as not to offend either god.

Heiroglyphs in Temple of Kom Ombo

And then there’s Abu Simbel, Edfu and Dendura

 The temples at Abu Simbel are on the western bank of Lake Nasser. The monolithic temples were constructed during the reign of Ramses II and discovered in the early 19th century. They were moved from their original location during the construction of the Answar Dam. An imposing statue of Ramses marks the entrance to his temple and inside, the carvings document his military victories and their connection to the gods. A smaller temple, with a stunning front facade, is a fabulous example of Egyptian art. It is dedicated to Ramses’ queen, Nefertari.

Queen Nefertari at leisure

Edfu is a legendary and sacred place in Egyptian history. It is supposedly where the falcon god  Horus battled his uncle Seth after Seth murdered and dismembered his father, Osiris. In his honor, the inhabitants of Edfu built this grand temple. This is one of Egypt’s most complete temples because it had been covered with sand and preserved. The stonework is incredible and the gateway to the temple is guarded by two gigantic statues of Horus as a falcon. Since the roof is still intact, the paintings and reliefs in the interior are vibrant and colorful. If you feel the need to get your steps in, climb the 242 steps on the west side for great views of the Nile. The remains of a Nilometer are on the east side. The Nilometer measured the Nile and helped Egyptians plan their crops.

Edfu Temple interior

Dendera is one of the most important religious centers in Egypt. The city, originally called Tentyris, was sacred because of three separate sanctuaries in the city, one to Horus, one to Ihy, son of Horus and one to Hathor. The temple complex here has a larger temple for Hathor, but numerous smaller temples and shrines, a basilica, a sacred lake and two birth houses.

Astronomical Ceiling in Temple of Hathor

We hope we’ve given you some destinations to consider in your upcoming Egypt trip as well as some insights into sites GetAway Travel will be visiting during our 2026 trip to Egypt. Care to join us, or have GetAway plan a trip for you? We can be reached 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

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From Pilgrims to Luxury: A Thanksgiving Tale with a Travel Twist

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Thanksgiving—our favorite national holiday filled with turkey, pie, and football—has its roots in a feast nearly 400 years ago. This gathering brought together the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag to celebrate the colony’s first successful harvest. But what’s the backstory of these iconic settlers? And how does it connect to modern-day luxury travel? Let’s embark on this journey of history, adventure, and a sprinkle of holiday spirit.

The Pilgrims: History’s Bold Travelers

The Pilgrims weren’t just about buckled hats and pumpkin pie. They were bold rebels, known as Brownists, escaping England’s volatile religious scene. After fleeing to the relative calm of Holland, they realized their kids were trading Puritan discipline for Dutch swagger. Gasp! Time for Plan B: a daring trip to the New World.

 

Enter the Mayflower. Well, technically, they tried to set out on the Speedwell, but as the name ironically suggests, it was neither speedy nor well—it leaked like a sieve. So, the Mayflower stepped in, and history set sail.

The Voyage: A Floating Nightmare

Imagine this: you’re crammed into a 100-foot-long ship with 101 other passengers, surrounded by livestock, minimal food, and no Wi-Fi (or proper toilets). The voyage lasted 66 grueling days of seasickness, boredom, and repair work. It wasn’t exactly a luxury cruise, but they persevered and eventually landed in the frigid New World.

Winter wasn’t kind to them, but thankfully, the Wampanoag people shared their survival know-how. Without them, the Pilgrims might have been history before they even made it into the history books. That first Thanksgiving feast in 1621? A celebration of resilience, teamwork, and wild turkey.

From the Mayflower to the Queen Mary 2

Fast forward to today. If the Pilgrims had sailed on the Queen Mary 2, history might’ve looked a little different—because who would leave a ship with a planetarium, ballroom dancing, and Veuve Clicquot on tap?

The Queen Mary 2 is the ultimate transatlantic experience:

  • Size: 1132 feet long and 148,528 tons (compared to the Mayflower’s 100 feet and 180 tons).
  • Comfort: Luxurious staterooms instead of tween decks with chamber pots.
  • Activities: From fitness classes to wine tastings, trivia contests, and spa treatments, boredom is impossible.
  • Dining: Forget hardtack. Think five-star dining in the Britannia Restaurant with its stunning three-tiered design.

And don’t even get us started on the live entertainment, planetarium shows, and promenade walks. With all this, the Pilgrims might never have left the ship!

Thanksgiving Today: Gratitude Meets Travel

So, as you sit down for turkey and stuffing, take a moment to thank the Pilgrims for their adventurous spirit and the Wampanoag for their generosity. Then, dream big about your own journeys. Whether it’s a luxury cruise across the Atlantic or exploring the world in style, today’s travel options make even the boldest Pilgrims look like homebodies.

From all of us to you, Happy Thanksgiving! May your holiday be filled with family, feasting, and a sprinkle of travel inspiration.

Castles, cathedrals and cruising on the Rhine

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A river cruise is hard to beat and here’s why: you get to visit quaint villages, charming towns, cultural centers and scenic areas without unpacking. You go to bed and sleep during the travel time and wake up to a new venue and new adventures. River cruise ships are smaller than ocean-going vessels so there won’t be long lines disembarking, embarking or at the lounge!

Taking a cruise on the Rhine offers multiple options because you’ve got Germany on one side, France on the other side and you may start out in Amsterdam. GetAway Travel will be taking a group on a fabulous cruise on the Rhine. The information in this blog gives an overview of where the group will be going, but most cruises take similar routes. So if you can’t join us next year, file this away and GetAway will be happy to help you with a similar cruise.

Starting or ending in Basel, Switzerland

 Take on an extra day at the end or start of your Rhine cruise to explore Basel. The hometown of tennis great Roger Federer is the cultural capital of Switzerland.

Basel Switzerland on the Rhine

There are museums (at least 40), art galleries and historic landmarks to enjoy. There are murals, sculptures and public art installations everywhere. And, Basel is on the “sunny” side of Switzerland. The city logs about 300 days of sunshine each year.

The Kunst Museum has been described as the “palace of arts.” The oldest public art institution in the world, it houses collections from the 17th century to contemporary. There are exhibits dedicated to fashion and decorative arts and a Picasso collection.

Base; city hall

Why so many museums? The city is home to a university and collections used for teaching and research became museums for all to enjoy. Museums are dedicated to pharmacy, design, the history of the Upper Rhine, anatomical, paper and toys.

The toy museum, with a collection of more than 2,500 teddy bears, is interesting for all ages. The toys are in exhibits placed to interact with each other. Display screens teach visitors about the toys and history of the collections. There are amazing collections of dolls, dollhouses, carousels and miniatures.

Basel Minster Cathedral

Basel Minster is a stunning Gothic cathedral. With its red sandstone walls and twin spires, it commands attention and thats before you notice the jaw-dropping intricate facade.

Stained glass in the Basel Minster

Breisach, Strasbourg and Speyer

 Breisach, Germany is considered the Gateway to the Black Forest. The region is on a basalt rock outcropping and it is across the river from French Alsace, a famous wine-growing region. But Breisach is no beverage slacker, it is home to Europe’s largest wine cellars.

Breisach, Germany on the Rhine

Nine wine growing regions with more than 500 different wines are represented at Badischer Winzerkeller. Take an underground train tour of the cellars and learn about the winegrowers and cellarmen and, of course, there’s tasting involved.

Geldermann Privatsektkellerei is a sparking wine cellar. Its tour includes the bottling process and, of course, more tasting.

Medieval door, Breisach, Germany

St. Stephen’s Cathedral dates from the 12th century with a major remodel in the 15th century. Much of the historically significant interior was preserved, including the 1,000 square-foot mural “The Last Judgement” created by Martin Schongauer. There are other amazing frescoes and carvings inside and the view from the roof is fabulous.

St. Stephens Cathedral – Briesach, Germany

Strasbourg, along the Alsace Wine Route, has picturesque canals, quaint half-timbered homes and stunning architecture. It is no wonder it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Strasbourg

The Cathédrale Nôtre-Dame de Strasbourg represents eight centuries of architectural history. One of the oldest churches in the world, with a spire height of nearly 450 feet, it is also one of the tallest churches in the world. Visitors are awed by the 12th century stained glass windows as well as the astronomical clock in the interior.

Cathédrale Nôtre-Dame de Strasbourg

Speyer is named for the four red towers on the city’s Romanesque cathedral. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its four towers and two domes, it is considered one of the most important Romanesque monuments from the Holy Roman Empire. Eight different German emperors and kings are buried here.

Imperial Cathedral of the Assumption of Saint Stephen, Speyer

There are modern exhibits from land, sea and air at the Technik Museum in Speyer. There are  more than 2,000 exhibits include space shuttles and submarines. The Historical Museum of the Palatinate explores the history of the region, including a wine museum that has exhibits and collections dedicated to the culture of winemaking and wine consumption.

Rüdesheim, Boppard, Koblenz, Cologne

 Rüdesheim is known for winemaking, especially its Rieslings. There are a number of vineyard tours to choose from. But, you can start your tasting experience while touring the city on Drosselgasse, a quaint street lined with shops, taverns and restaurants.

Rudesheim Winery

You can’t miss the clocktower on Drosselgasse, try to be close when it strikes the hour. It plays music, rings bells and animated figures dance.

If you are starting your day early, get a cup of the famous Rüdesheimer coffee. Made with a generous splash of Asbach Uralt brandy, it is topped with a big dollop of fresh whipped cream.

You can take a cable car ride to the Niederwald monument which commemorates the founding of the German empire. The panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and Rüdesheimer are amazing.

Niederwald

Seigfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet is a museum of automated musical instruments and more. There are exhibits featuring intricate music boxes, self-playing instruments and vintage jukeboxes.

Rheinstein Castle

The Rheinstein Castle will make you think you walked into a fairytale. Its well-preserved architecture, which is why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gives one a sense of medieval Germany. Tour the historic halls, courtyards and gardens complete with period furnishings as well as weaponry and armory.

Brömserburg Castle houses the Rheingau Wine Museum. Learn all about the history of winemaking, the art of viticulture and, of course, sample regional wines.

Boppard, in the Rhine Gorge, is the largest wine town in the central Rhine region. Take advantage of the many wine tours that are offered, and do some of your sampling at Weinhaus Geilig Grab. It is the city’s oldest wine tavern, more than 200 years old, and you can try Rieslings, pinot noirs or Müller-Thurgau.

High on the bluffs are two castles, formerly owned by feuding brothers, Burg Liebenstein and Burg Sterrenberg. Burg Liebenstein is nearly restored and functions as a hotel now.

You can tour Electoral Castle. It is one of the few castles on the Rhine that was not destroyed and then rebuilt. It is on the water’s edge instead of on the hills because castle owners collected tolls on the Rhine. It houses the Thonet Museum which honors the city’s famous furniture maker.

Electoral Castle, Eltville

Koblenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, has some great castle. The gardens and park at Stolzenfels Castle are stunning. It was the summer residence of King of Prussia Friedich Wilhelm IV. Deutsches Eck or German Corner, rises up from the waters where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. There’s a 120-foot bronze statue of Kaiser Wilhelm on the land.

Eltz Castle, Koblenz

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe and the only 19th century Russian fortress left in Europe. It houses several museums including a wine museum as well as archeology, photography and history museums.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, Koblenz

Cologne is a major cultural center with dozens of fabulous galleries and museums.

If you are interested in joining GetAway’s Castles on the Rhine group, having us plan your own cruise — or perhaps taking back-to-back cruises, we can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Experience the Magic of Back-to-Back River Cruises in Europe

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For those who love the idea of leisurely exploring Europe’s stunning rivers, back-to-back river cruises are the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of multiple regions. Imagine drifting from one enchanting city to the next, without the hassle of unpacking, connecting flights, or switching hotels. Whether you’re passionate about history, wine, or simply soaking in the scenery, combining two or more cruises allows you to create a truly unforgettable European adventure.

Double the Adventure, Half the Effort

One of the biggest perks of back-to-back cruises is how easy they make travel. You get to experience multiple itineraries in one seamless vacation, without ever needing to repack or worry about logistics. With smaller, boutique-style river ships, the transition from one journey to the next is effortless, leaving you free to enjoy the adventure at your own pace. This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to make the most of their time without the stress of planning a complicated itinerary.

Explore More of Europe in One Trip

Why settle for just one destination when you can explore more? A back-to-back cruise lets you sail through multiple countries and regions, from the romantic Rhine to the enchanting Danube, all in one extended journey. One week you could be admiring Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, and the next you’re exploring Vienna’s elegant palaces. It’s a chance to see Europe’s most iconic cities and landmarks in one amazing trip, all while traveling in comfort and style.

Best of Both Worlds: Western and Central Europe

A popular option for combining itineraries is the “Castles Along the Rhine” followed by a journey down the Danube. This allows you to experience the charming towns and towering castles of Germany one week, then continue on to the grand capitals of Vienna, Budapest, and beyond the next. It’s the perfect way to enjoy both Western and Central Europe, giving you a taste of different cultures, histories, and landscapes.

Middle Rhine Valley

A Feast for the Senses: French Food & Wine

For foodies and wine lovers, combining river cruises through France’s best regions is a perfect pairing. Imagine starting with a culinary journey through Burgundy and Provence, with stops in Lyon and Avignon, and then continuing on to Bordeaux, the heart of one of the world’s most famous wine regions. From tasting fine wines to savoring gourmet meals, this combination offers a true feast for the senses.

Enjoy the Intimate Luxury of Smaller Ships

One of the most enjoyable aspects of river cruising is the intimate, boutique experience offered on smaller ships. With fewer passengers, you’ll enjoy personalized service and a relaxed atmosphere that’s more akin to staying at a luxury hotel than being on a large ocean liner. This makes extended back-to-back cruises even more appealing, allowing you to unwind and enjoy each leg of your journey without distractions or crowds.

Whether you’re looking to explore Europe’s rivers in depth, indulge in world-class food and wine, or simply relax as you sail through breathtaking landscapes, back-to-back cruises are the perfect way to experience it all. With so much to see and do, these extended journeys offer a leisurely yet luxurious way to discover Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Expert Guidance from GetAway Travel

At GetAway Travel, we specialize in crafting personalized, unforgettable travel experiences, and our expertise in European river cruising is second to none. Whether you’re interested in combining itineraries or looking for the perfect back-to-back cruise, our team is here to help every step of the way. We’ll guide you through selecting the ideal routes, handling logistics, and ensuring you get the most out of your journey. With years of experience in luxury travel, we know how to tailor trips to meet the desires of baby boomer travelers, providing seamless planning and exclusive perks to enhance your European adventure.

Set Sail on the Ultimate Adventure: 149 Days of Discovery in 2027

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Ready to check off your ultimate travel bucket list? In 2027, you can embark on the cruise of a lifetime: a 149-day voyage that spans 35 countries, over 70 destinations, and 5 continents. Think of it as a whirlwind journey where you not only explore some of the planet’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites but also dive into local cultures, all while enjoying luxurious comforts. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just someone with a serious case of wanderlust, this experience has something for everyone.

 Why Book with Us?

Well, let’s be honest: booking a cruise this epic can feel a little overwhelming. But that’s where we come in. We’re here to handle all the little details so you can focus on the fun. We’ll customize your adventure to make sure every stop on this global voyage matches your dream trip.

A Dive into History: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

This 149-day journey on the Silverseas Silver Dawn isn’t just about seeing the world; it’s about *experiencing* it. And there’s no better way to do that than by visiting some of the planet’s most revered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ever dreamed of wandering the mystical lost city of Petra? How about standing atop Machu Picchu, gazing out at the ancient ruins framed by the Andes?

Other highlights include the Great Barrier Reef, Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and the timeless beauty of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Every stop adds something new and unforgettable to your travel story, giving you that perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

And here’s the insider tip: when you book with us, we can set you up with special experiences at these locations—like early access to sites before the crowds arrive or exclusive guided tours with local experts.

We discussed previously about starting a bucket list of World Heritage Sites.

The 149-day Silversea cruise in 2027 includes over 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as part of its diverse and immersive itinerary. These remarkable sites offer travelers the chance to explore some of the world’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks across five continents.

Here are some of the standout UNESCO sites that could be part of your journey:

  • Petra (Jordan) – The ancient city carved into rose-red rock.

  • Great Wall of China (China) – A stunning testament to human ingenuity.

  • Machu Picchu (Peru) – The legendary Incan city high in the Andes.

  • Great Barrier Reef (Australia) – The world’s largest coral reef system.

  • Amalfi Coast (Italy) – A breathtaking stretch of coastline with historic towns.

  • Angkor Wat (Cambodia) – The largest religious monument in the world.

  • Medina of Fez (Morocco) – A well-preserved medieval city brimming with history.

  • Galápagos Islands (Ecuador) – A haven for wildlife and natural beauty.

Each destination offers a rich cultural, historical, or natural significance, adding depth and meaning to this incredible global adventure.

Travel Sustainably and Make a Difference

What makes this cruise even better? It’s not just about seeing the world; it’s about *preserving* it. In partnership with local communities, this journey emphasizes sustainable travel. From contributing to reef preservation efforts in Australia to supporting local artisans in Southeast Asia, your journey leaves a positive footprint.

And we’re not just talking about the destinations. Onboard, you’ll enjoy sustainable luxury, with eco-friendly initiatives like reducing single-use plastics and minimizing fuel consumption. So, while you’re indulging in world-class dining and lounging in your suite, you can feel good about traveling responsibly.

 Luxury, Tailored to You

Let’s talk about the fun stuff—the luxury side of things. This cruise redefines what it means to sail in style. Onboard, every suite is spacious, offering you sweeping ocean views. Fancy a butler? You’ve got one. How about gourmet dining created by top chefs, or a sommelier who will guide you through fine wine tastings? Yes, that’s all part of the package.

This 149-day voyage is a journey that blends luxury, culture, and adventure into one perfect package. And with our help, booking it is easier (and more exciting!) than ever. We’ll handle all the planning, offer insider perks, and make sure every part of this dream trip is uniquely yours.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make 2027 your year of ultimate adventure. Reach out today and let’s get your journey started!