Category Archives: River Cruise

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

Experience China on a river cruise

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China is a study in opposites, from the tallest mountain in the world to the largest plateau in the world; dedicated to innovation and growth and fiercely protective of family structure and hierarchy. A great way to experience a taste of this fascinating country is on a Yangtze River Cruise. The world’s third largest river touches a third of the country’s population If you are interested in discovering the mystery of China on a cruise, GetAway Travel can help with that!

Chongqing, Chengdu and Fengdu

 The Yangtze River starts its journey to China in the Tanggula Mountains in Tibet. The longest river in China, it is the third largest in the world behind the Nile and the Amazon rivers. A cruise on the Yangtze, which can go three days, six days or 10 days, is truly a trip that embraces history on the water. Cruises start in Yichang and go to Chongqing, or vice versa.

In Chongqing visit the Three Gorges Museum to get a preview of what building the world’s largest hydroelectric power station entailed. It gives you some insights into the marvel that produces energy, prevents flooding and makes for safe travel on the river.

Chongqing

Known as Little Hong Kong or the Mountain City, Chongqing has fabulous scenery and fascinating historical sites.

Three Natural Bridges – and here’s one of them

Three Natural Bridges, the largest natural bridge group in Asia is magnificent. If it looks somewhat familiar, it was featured in the Transformers 4 movie. The Dazu Rock Carvings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Religious cliff carvings were done here during the Tang to the Early Song dynasties. There are more than 102 places with carvings including 360 giant sculptures including Buddha statues that are more than a mile and a half high!

Get a different view of the Yangtze by taking the Yangtze River Cableway across the river and get your panda fix at the Chongqing Zoo. In addition to 12 pandas, there’s also 230 species of animals, birds and fish.

Giant Pandas

Speaking of pandas, you can take a high-speed train (217 mph) from Chongqing to Chengdu and spend some time at the Giant Panda Research Center. See giant pandas, red pandas and other endangered species such as swans and peacocks. Learn all about pandas and their history at the Giant Panda Museum and enjoy the panda art at the Panda Art Museum. There’s also outstanding works of art in the Chengdu Museum and ancient Chinese architecture is recreated in streetscapes.

Chengdu China historic district

Get something to eat in Chengdu, it is the capital of Sichuan province where the vastly popular Sichuan cuisine comes from. Due to the popularity of the food style, Chengdu is a UNESCO Gastronomy City.

Chengdu Sichuan hot pot

Fengdu is known as the Ghost City due to the vast array of demon-decorated temples and statues that depict what the Chinese people imagine hell is like. Fengdu is the Jade Emperor scenic area that includes 30 different styles of traditional architecture with 208 carved deity statues including the largest image of the Jade Emperor in the world.

Shibozhai red pagoda of Fengdu Ghost City

When the water level of the Yangtze rose due to dam construction, architectural and cultural artifacts were either recreated or relocated to Xianguanshan Park. The park features reproductions of historic and ancient residential buildings, courtyards, temples, gates, wood carvings and temples. There are regular performances of opera, acrobatics, rock music and puppet shows at the park.

Three Gorges Dam

Three Gorges Dam

 At a cost of $23 billion and a construction schedule that took 10 years, Three Gorges Dam is 687 feet high and almost 1 1/2 miles wide. It takes eight hours to go through the series of locks at the dam.

Qutang Gorge

Qutang Gorge is the first of the three gorges and the most dramatic. Two mountains, Red Passage and White Salt stand guard at the entrance to the gorge. The ancient city, White Emperor City, is at the entrance to the gorge. Future kings and poets supposedly travel here to be inspired by the views.

Wu Gorge

Wu Gorge or Witches Gorge, is the second gorge with sheer cliffs on each side that rise so high they sometimes block out the sun. Six peaks line the North side and six line the South side. The most famous peak is the Goddess Peak which is said to resemble a kneeling maiden.

Xiling Gorge

The deepest of the three gorges is Xiling Gorge. It is actually seven smaller gorges with interesting names like Military Books and Precious Sword based on ancient legends.

The dam is in the middle of Xiling Gorge. The dam has raised the level of the river to 574 feet above sea level.

About 1.5 million people needed to be relocated because of the dam and one of the relocation villages is across the river from Fengdu.

The dam is five times larger than the Hoover Dam and it generates 10 times more hydroelectric power.

Cruise goers through the gorges are treated to breathtaking landscape including the sheer cliffs, narrow river paths and dense forests. Many of the cruises also feature shore excursions which include cultural actives such as calligraphy and tai chi classes, mahjong lessons and lectures about traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.

Tai Chi

A touch-off point for the cruises can be Shanghai which will be explored in a future post.

If a fascinating cruise along the Yangtze is on your bucket list, GetAway Travel will make that happen. We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

Eastern Danube cruise: fascinating, relaxing, unique experience

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River cruises offer the opportunity to experience charming and historic destinations that are not typically offered by ocean cruises.  You won’t have to worry about fighting crowds to get a seat at the bar, sit on the deck or worry about getting stuck in a windowless cabin. Everyone gets a view on a river cruise. There’s a variety of exciting shore options offered.

Wake up in the morning to a fabulous new port, new scenery and new excursion options. Speaking of new, the destinations on a cruise on the lower Danube are a bit off the beaten path, so they are new to most travelers.

Sue cruising the Danube

There are elegant, charming cities that still bear the scars of overcoming Communist rule, but they are also a testament to the resiliency of the human spirit. Looking for a relaxing and authentic cruise experience? GetAway Travel can help you book your river adventure.

Budapest, cowboys, Croatian culture

 Hungary’s capital, Budapest is an amazing place. The Danube flows through the city and the views on either bank are great. The Chain Bridge, a suspension bridge held up by massive chains, is a spectacular sight during the day or at night as is the Parliament Building.

Budapest at night

Kalocsa, Hungary, in the Hungarian Puszta region, was formerly the seat of the archbishop. It is more than 1,000 years old. The town is surrounded by 8,000 acres of farmland where “red gold” or the pepper that give the world paprika, grows.

Paprika peppers and garlic

Bright floral murals brighten the streets of Kolocsa, you can visit the Paprika Museum and the House of Folk Art Museum. Horses have long been the main mode of transportation for the people of the region. The residents of the region embrace the past and continue to elevate horsemanship to an art form. Enjoy a fabulous demonstration at the Bakodpuszta Equestrian Center.

Kolocsa, Hungary

Vukovar is the biggest river port city in Croatia. The Central Cross is a 40-ton monument located at the confluence of the Vuka and Danube rivers. Made of white Brac and Pazin stone, it honors the defenders of the fight for Croatian freedom in October 1998.

The town of Vokovar

Eltz Manor is an 18th century Baroque palace damaged during the 1991 Battle of Vukovar, but now fully restored. The Vukovar City Museum is located here. More than 1,500 Croatian and European works of art are on display. You can climb the Vukovar Water Tower to get some great views of the city. The tower is a testament to what the city went through during the war, it sustained 600 direct hits, but remains standing.

Vokovar, Croatia – water tower shows the scars of war

Osijek is a short distance from Vukovar and is the fourth largest city in Croatia. The economic and cultural center of Eastern Croatia, it embraces its rich history, but also has interesting modern attractions. Indeed, the city’s top attraction, Tvrda, a Baroque fortress, has quaint cobblestone streets within its preserved fortified walls, as well as trendy cafes and galleries.

Main square in the town of Osijek

Inside the walls you will find an eclectic mix of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture due to rebuilding.

St. Michael Church in Osijek

The main square includes Osijek Cathedral as well as the Museum of Slavonia which houses a vast collection of historical and cultural artifacts dating back to prehistoric times, artwork and a collection of natural history items of fossils, minerals, flora and fauna with some great interactive exhibits.

Holy trinity monument in Osijek

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, on the square, is a Baroque style church with an exterior that features intricate sculptures and domed towers. There are amazing frescoes inside, elaborate altars with ornate carvings and stunning stained glass windows.

The Iron Gate, wine country and Dracula

 The Danube wanders through wide valleys and stretched out countrysides until it gets to an area between Serbia and Romania. At the area known as the Iron Gate, it narrows to less than a mile wide with imposing red cliffs on each side. Here Mother Nature and the river carved a gash between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In this forbidding area, the Golubac Fortress has stood guard over the Danube while control changed hands from Serbs, Hungarians, Bulgarians and Turks.

Danube gorge – the Iron Gate

The Lepenski Vir is an archeological site and museum that stores finds from a culture that lived on the banks of the Danube 6,000 years ago. Sifting through the sediments here uncovered seven layers of settlements as well as the remnants of stone altars, tools, pottery, jewelry, statues and skeletal remains.

Traditional houses at Lepenski Vir

The Belogradchik Fortress in Vidin, Bulgaria is a Roman fortification built to take advantage of natural rock formations of between 320 and 820 feet high on three sides. The views from the top of the fortress are breathtaking.

The Belogradchik Fortress

The first wine school opened in Vidin in 1887. The area produces high-quality dry white and sparkling wines as well as elegant reds with a distinct fresh and fruity aroma. You can tour the Bononia, Vidinski Games or Los Dos Alamos wineries. The Magura Winery is famous for what is referred to as the Bat Gallery, a cave with darkness and humid that produces ideal conditions for aging great sparkling wine.

Synagogue ruins in Vidin, Bulgaria

Nearby Ruse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area was inhabited by monks for hundreds of years. They began living in caves carved into the hills and out of the rock they carved the Churches of Ivanovo as well as individual cells, monasteries and churches.

Ruse, Bulgaria

An Eastern Danube River cruise should, of course, include an obligatory visit to Romania’s Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.

Bran Castle, Transylvania, Romania

Do some exploring in Brasov first. Here you’ll see lovely medieval buildings painted in bright colors as well as the Town Hall and Black Church, the only two original buildings still standing after a devastating 17th century fire. Both are Gothic style architecture and the Black Church is easily one of the most impressive churches in Eastern Europe. It has high ceilings, an impressive pipe organ, fabulous stained glass windows and an extensive collection of Ottoman-era prayer rugs. The striking neo-Gothic architecture of Beth Israel Synagogue makes it a “must see” site to visit.

Town of Brasov, Romania

Nearby Peles Castle was the summer residence of King Carol I. The castle reflects architectural styles of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance. The surrounding gardens are incredible. There is a profusion of flowers, fountains, sculptures and manicured garden areas.

Peles Castle, Brasov

The Peles Castle, as well as Bran castle have great collections of medieval art, furniture and weapons on display.

How about it? Are you up for an adventurous cruise on the Eastern Danube? The travel advisors at GetAway are ready to help you out. Call (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Experience the joy of the season at European Christmas Markets

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While it’s true there’s no place like home for the holidays, there’s no reason why you can’t start your holidays at one or more of the fabulous Christmas markets held all over Europe. This year when you gather for the holidays, start thinking about making some new holiday memories starting with a fabulous getaway that includes some stops at Christmas markets. Your travel advisors at GetAway can plan your trip including some stops for shopping and enjoying some new holiday experiences. 

 Markets got their start in Vienna 

 Christmas markets are street markets designed to celebrate the holiday during the four weeks of Advent leading up to and sometimes, depending on which country you are in, past Christmas into January. They are thought to have originated in Vienna, but were made popular in Germany. 

Vienna, Austria, City Centre Christmas Market

The first Christmas market supposedly was in 1296 in December when Emperor Albrecht I of Austria granted shopkeepers a one-to-two day market so the townspeople could stock up before the winter. Christmas markets are held in town squares and the little, decorated wooden stalls offer arts and crafts items, candles, toys, Christmas decorations and figurines as well as food and drinks. Some town halls transform into giant Advent calendars with different windows lighted each night. 

Nutcrackers in Rudesheim Germany Christmas Market

Now, virtually every country including Germany, Denmark, France, Austria, Portugal, Spain and England have Christmas markets. So your GetAway advisor can plan plenty of sightseeing in a country and have your trip end with a fantastic Christmas market experience. You can fill that second empty suitcase you brought with your holiday gifts, and, of course, a couple of items for yourself! 

 Festive sights, sounds and food 

 The most famous Christmas market is in Vienna, which actually has a dozen or more markets located throughout the city. The largest market is in Rathausplatz, in the square facing Vienna City Hall. Markets in Vienna are, well, grand — like the residents strive to match the fabulous, grand architecture of the city. There’s lots of light displays and Rathausplatz has an ice skating rink. And, just a note, when markets are described as having stalls with items, we are taking upwards of 200 stalls. 

Christmas Market Mainz, Germany

Markets, no matter what city in what country, serve a variation of gluhwein. Gluhwein is hot mulled wine spiced with cloves, anise, cinnamon and citrus fruits. Red wine is the most prevalent, but you can find it done with white wine. There is usually a version of apple cider if you want a non-alcoholic beverage and, of course, hot cocoa. Gluhwein, where ever you are, is served in a mug which you put a deposit on. You can return for a refill, or keep the mug for the price of the small deposit. They make great keepsake souvenirs. 

Make sure to go to the markets hungry. In France, where you should wait until dusk to go shopping because the twinkling lights are magical, you can get oysters, champagne, caviar, poutine and freshly grilled meat. 

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Port wine: A Portugal treasure

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Port wine is to Portugal as Champagne is to France. Each of those spirits have to be prepared using strict guidelines and their ingredients have to be sourced from a certain area. The only sparkling wine that can be called Champagne must come from the Champagne Wine Region of France and the only wine that can be labeled “Port” has to be from the Douro Valley of Portugal. 

Whether you are a port person or a champagne connoisseur, GetAway Travel can construct a trip for you. We’re working on a port-forward trip right now! It takes you to the Douro Valley and it’s aboard a fabulous modern ship designed for river cruising. 

What’s all the fuss about location? 

 The narrow Douro Valley has its own microclimate which makes it the optimal area to produce grapes used in port. In the 1700s, Portugal’s prime minister took measures to distinguish the specific area of the Douro Valley as being the only area where true port could be produced. It set production standards, the same way there are standards set for only some sparkling wines to be known as champagne. 

Port Casks aging at Offley

The unique aspect of the valley is that the soil as well as the terraced vineyards, were transformed by hand. The vineyard owners worked the soil to produce specific grapes and the terraces were set up to retain water as well as drain water if needed. More than 80 types of grapes are produced in the valley. Many of the vineyards have to still harvest by hand because of the way they are set up. 

Port wine must be at least two years old before it can be sold to the public and producers are only allowed to sell 30% of what they make so there is always port wine aging with producers. The port “winters” in the valley in barrels or kegs because that type of climate helps the fortifying agent mix with the wine. It then is moved to Porto (where it gets its name) because the humid, mild climate there is better for continued aging. 

Port tasting in Porto

 Tell me more about port 

 Port wine is not a chugging wine, it’s a sipping wine most often served with dessert or even as a dessert. It is considered the most delicious dessert wine on the planet! 

It is a fortified wine (more on that later) and it is richer, sweeter, heavier and higher in alcohol content than normal wines. It has an alcohol content somewhere between 19 and 20%. Heady stuff, but it goes great with fine cheeses and rich desserts. 

There are two main kinds of port, ruby and tawny. 

Ruby is slightly less sweet than tawny and it has berry and chocolate undertones. Tawny has caramel and nut nuances, but aged tawny can also have undertones of graphite, hazelnut, almond, butterscotch and graham cracker. 

There’s also white port, rose port and vintage port. Vintage port is rare, it is made from the best grapes of a single type of grape. Port houses declare a port wine as “vintage” only a few times in a decade. 

very old Vintage Port

 Do they still stomp the grapes? 

 Yes, yes they do — and here’s why. Those bitter seed nibs in grapes do nothing to add to the taste of port and feet stomping the grapes slide over the seeds and they can be drained out later. Some vineyards do employ mechanical feet machines to crush the grapes and they cross their fingers not a lot of the seeds get crushed. 

The harvested grapes, all picked in one day, are put in granite treading tanks and stomped to release the juice and the pulp from the skins. It is a synchronized process to make sure all of the grapes get crushed. When that is done and the skins are floating to the top of the tanks, the treading continues to keep moving the skins under the juice so fermentation starts. When about half of the natural sugar has fermented, the treading stops and the skins are allowed to sit on the top of the tank and the juice is drained out. The wine is then fortified with a distilled grape spirit called brandy. The sugar turns to alcohol and that’s where the high alcohol content happens. 

View from Taylor tasting room in Porto

 Tell me more! 

 Drink port with rich cheeses like bleu cheese, chocolate and caramel desserts, salted and smoked nuts and even sweet, smoky meats. You can add it to chocolate cakes or chocolate sauces and it can be simmered to a thick sauce, similar to a balsamic glaze. 

Rosé port should be served ice cold. It’s very trendy to serve it cold in the summer with a twist of lime. 

White port should be served cold, tawny port should be cool, like about 50 to 58° Fahrenheit and ruby should be served at cellar temperature which is about 60°. Port should be stored on its side and set upright about 24 hours ahead of serving and decanted if possible. The shelf life of port is about halfway between wine and liquor. 

We could talk about port all day, but we’d rather you learn more on a trip to the Duoro Valley. Contact us about that trip, or any other fabulous trip you’ve been thinking about. We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel