Monday, September 22, 2014

Wine on the Rhine - join our group departing the US March 29, 2015, for a 7 day wine themed cruise on the Rhine

Special rate: Enjoy incredible $ 1500 off per stateroom if booked by Ocotber 31, 2014!
Join our group on the wine themed "Enchanting Rhine " river cruise with AMA Waterways' AmaCerto, a floating 4.5 star river vessel. Depart the US March 29th, 2015 for a 7 night cruise. A 4 night land package in Switzerland can be booked additionally. Enjoy tastings of the Sbragia Family vineyards while cruising through one of the most romantic parts of Europe, the Rhine Valley.



This trip can be booked with or without land package (kindly see the itineraries in the itinerary section of this blog) in beautiful Lucerne and Zurich, Switzerland following the cruise.
Basel, Switzerland
Embark the AmaCerto, your 4.5 star floating hotel,  in vibrant Amsterdam where you can enjoy the legendary canals and colorful surroundings. Feel like being in a fairy tale when beautiful castles and romantic towns will be your scenery during this 7 night cruise. Discover majestic Cologne Cathedral, the historic university town of Heidelberg, stroll through charming medieval Strasbourg, discover the legendary Black Forest region and disembark in Basel where you can start the land program amdist Switzerland's stunning scenery and world-famous cities, enjoying lake-side excurions and Alpine vistas.

Amsterdam, Holland

Meet the AmaCerto - your 4.5 star floating hotel


Inspired by classic ocean yachts, the AmaCerto -- debuted in 2012 -- will provide the most distinctive river cruise experience. A magnificent glass elevator is one of the unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies”. The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 300 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.
Enjoy additional complimentary amenities such as Wi-Fi, a specialty coffee station and a fleet of bicycles. 
Check out this beautiful video about river cruising !







Check out our website for deckplans, the different category staterooms, amenities and more  here

Detailed itinerary including land package

Day 1DEPART USA/CANADA
Board your overnight flight to Amsterdam, Holland.
Day 2ARRIVE IN AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND - EMBARKATION
Arrive in charming Amsterdam and board your luxurious river cruise ship. Meet your fellow travelers tonight at a Welcome Aboard Wine Toast. (D)
Day 3AMSTERDAM
After breakfast, your morning tour begins with a scenic canal cruise through the city known as the “Venice of the North.” See the beautiful homes that line the water, the fabled Skinny Bridge, and the famous Anne Frank House. Enjoy a panoramic city tour, where you will see many top landmarks and stop for photos at the Rembrandt Windmill. Afterwards, you will return to the ship for an afternoon wine lecture and tasting prior to dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 4COLOGNE, GERMANY - KOBLENZ
This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic heart of Cologne, including a visit to its famous 13th-century Gothic cathedral. Your tour will also include a beer tasting to sample the city’s renowned Kölsch beer. You will then enjoy an afternoon wine tasting as the ship cruises to Koblenz, where you will have an evening walking tour. (B,L,D)
Day 5KOBLENZ - RÜDESHEIM
This morning, sail through the fascinating Rhine Gorge, famous for its forts, castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. After arriving in Rüdesheim in the afternoon, you will have a wine tasting at a local winery. This evening, you may join a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, which houses one of the greatest collections of robotic and self-playing musical instruments from the 18th-20th centuries. As an alternative, sample a cup of the city’s famous Rudesheimer coffee, made with brandy, chocolate and whipped cream and served in a very distinctive cup. (B,L,D)
Day 6SPEYER - HEIDELBERG
Enjoy a morning wine lecture as you cruise to Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities. You may take a guided tour of Speyer or join a half-day excursion to Heidelberg, where you will visit the red-walled Castle, with its Great Vat (a 49,000-gallon 18th-century wine cask) and beautiful views. This evening, the ship sails to Strasbourg, France. This evening, enjoy a sumptuous Chaîne Des Rôtisseurs Dinner with wine pairing. (B,L,D)
Day 7STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Alsace’s principal city is situated on the Ill River where it flows into the Rhine at the German border. This morning, take a tour through this charming town lined with narrow cobblestone streets. See the European Parliament and visit the “La Petite France” district, where you will see the sandstone Gothic Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock, timber-framed buildings, covered bridges and medieval watchtowers. As an alternative, take a guided bicycle tour (capacity controlled) past the Orangery, the town’s oldest park, the European Parliament, and Place de la Republique. In the afternoon, you will travel down the fabled “Alsace Wine Road” to visit Obernai, where you will sample Riesling, Gewurztraminer and other famous wines of this region. (B,L,D)
Day 8BREISACH
This morning, enjoy a wine lecture during a scenic cruise to Breisach, Germany. You have your choice of afternoon excursions: a scenic tour of Breisach and Freiburg, or a visit to the wine village of Riquewihr. Both excursions include a special wine tasting opportunity. (B,L,D)
Day 9BASEL, SWITZERLAND - DISEMBARKATION - LUCERNE
Disembark after breakfast. If you are doing the Lucerne extension, you will have a city tour of cosmopolitan Basel, located at the crossroads of Switzerland, France and Germany. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval Town Hall and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. After free time for lunch on your own, depart for Lucerne. You will visit the Lion Monument en route and arrive mid-afternoon to check in to your hotel. (B)
Day 10LUCERNE
Situated on Lake Lucerne, this city is truly a medieval gem. After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour that will explore some of the city’s famous cobblestone streets, monuments, fountains, public squares, covered bridges and colorful frescoed buildings. The afternoon, enjoy free time to shop for watches, knives and delicious Swiss chocolate. Or, you can join the optional tour and cable car ride (seasonal) to a Swiss Mountain. (B)
Day 11LUCERNE - ZURICH
Enjoy a free morning in Lucerne before checking out of your hotel. Afterwards, you will take a leisurely cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne to Vitznau, where you will board a motor coach for a scenic drive to Zurich. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B)
Day 12ZURICH
Your morning walking tour of picturesque Zurich will include Grossmünster, St. Peter (with the largest church clock face in the world), Old Town, Town Hall and Fraumünster, which was fully renovated in 2004 and now offers an exceptional 360° panoramic view of Zurich. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore the city on your own. (B)
Day 13DEPART ZURICH
After breakfast, bid farewell to Zurich as you prepare for your return flight home. (B)

Detailed itinerary - cruise only

Day 1ARRIVE IN AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND - EMBARKATION
Arrive in charming Amsterdam and board your luxurious river cruise ship. Meet your fellow travelers tonight at a Welcome Aboard Wine Toast. (D)
Day 2AMSTERDAM
After breakfast, your morning tour begins with a scenic canal cruise through the city known as the “Venice of the North.” See the beautiful homes that line the water, the fabled Skinny Bridge, and the famous Anne Frank House. Enjoy a panoramic city tour, where you will see many top landmarks and stop for photos at the Rembrandt Windmill. Afterwards, you will return to the ship for an afternoon wine lecture and tasting prior to dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 3COLOGNE, GERMANY - KOBLENZ
This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic heart of Cologne, including a visit to its famous 13th-century Gothic cathedral. Your tour will also include a beer tasting to sample the city’s renowned Kölsch beer. You will then enjoy an afternoon wine tasting as the ship cruises to Koblenz, where you will have an evening walking tour. (B,L,D)
Day 4KOBLENZ - RÜDESHEIM
This morning, sail through the fascinating Rhine Gorge, famous for its forts, castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. After arriving in Rüdesheim in the afternoon, you will have a wine tasting at a local winery. This evening, you may join a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, which houses one of the greatest collections of robotic and self-playing musical instruments from the 18th-20th centuries. As an alternative, sample a cup of the city’s famous Rudesheimer coffee, made with brandy, chocolate and whipped cream and served in a very distinctive cup. (B,L,D)
Day 5SPEYER - HEIDELBERG
Enjoy a morning wine lecture as you cruise to Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities. You may take a guided tour of Speyer or join a half-day excursion to Heidelberg, where you will visit the red-walled Castle, with its Great Vat (a 49,000-gallon 18th-century wine cask) and beautiful views. This evening, the ship sails to Strasbourg, France. This evening, enjoy a sumptuous Chaîne Des Rôtisseurs Dinner with wine pairing. (B,L,D)
Day 6STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Alsace’s principal city is situated on the Ill River where it flows into the Rhine at the German border. This morning, take a tour through this charming town lined with narrow cobblestone streets. See the European Parliament and visit the “La Petite France” district, where you will see the sandstone Gothic Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock, timber-framed buildings, covered bridges and medieval watchtowers. As an alternative, take a guided bicycle tour (capacity controlled) past the Orangery, the town’s oldest park, the European Parliament, and Place de la Republique. In the afternoon, you will travel down the fabled “Alsace Wine Road” to visit Obernai, where you will sample Riesling, Gewurztraminer and other famous wines of this region. (B,L,D)
Day 7BREISACH
This morning, enjoy a wine lecture during a scenic cruise to Breisach, Germany. You have your choice of afternoon excursions: a scenic tour of Breisach and Freiburg, or a visit to the wine village of Riquewihr. Both excursions include a special wine tasting opportunity. (B,L,D)
Day 8BASEL, SWITZERLAND - DISEMBARKATION
Disembark after breakfast. (B)

Pricing and Information

Enjoy an incredible $ 1500 off per stateroom if booked by October 31, 2014!


Please contact us by email to request a quote.
tripdesign4u@gmail.com

Or call us at: (248) 982 - 4547

Basel - the cosmopolitan city to start your journey

Basel, one of the most important cultural cities of Switzerland.


 Beautifully surrounded by the Jura Mountains (Switzerland), the Black Forest (Germany) and the Vosges (France), Basel is also called the center of Europe. Located on both banks of the Rhine river, Basel has always been a major trade city. First settled by the Celts, key history points are the Roman military position in 30 B.C. and the opening of the University in 1460, the oldest university of the Swiss Confederation! Visit the medieval Town Hall and exquisite 18th century Patrician homes in the historic old town center with their hidden courtyards and winding alleys.
The city comprises a large number of museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the world's oldest art collection accessible to the public.
Its unique setting between France and Germany gives this beautiful city its cosmopolitan charme. 
Make sure to visit one of the many delis in old town and get a taste of local cheese, wine and fresh roasted coffee.

Colmar - the Alsatian Wine Capital

Colmar is a medieval town situated along the Alsatian Wine Route. During your walking tour you will see remarkable half-timbered framed houses, the German influenced old quarter filled with streets of unexpected twists and turns, canals and the Launch River.



Some think about Colmar as a village. No! It's a capital. The capital of Alsatian wine. Cheery, good natured, lively and breathtakingly beautful - it's well worth taking a discovery stroll through Colmar It's a country city, the kind Alphonse Allais dreamed of. Built in the country, on the Ried plain, the banks of the Rhine at its doorstep, the line of the Vosges mountains like a sentry watching over it, with the Fecht and Lauch rivers to gaze in. Colmar offers visitors an exciting glimpse of 1000 years of European history. Besides, with its 67,000 inhabitants, it retains a country town atmosphere which contributes so much to its charm. Wonderfully preserved from the ravages of time, its homogeneous historical center is classed as a protected area and has benefited from careful restoration and ongoing improvements for more than 20 years. 



While on the market place, make sure to visit a "Creperie" and have one of these delicious crepe! 
Lots of legends and stories are being told and I want to share with one with you. Hercules, the half-God, on his way back from the garden of Hesperides, found himself in the region between the Vosges and the Rhine, that would later became Alsace. It was late, hot and he was thirsty. He decided to halt and drank local wine that was (already) good. Entering an inn, he downed vast quantities of the local wine which was reputed even then and thereupon fell into a deep sleep, hes head spinning. When he came to the next morning, his head was aching and he saw that his herd had run off during the night. Rushing off in hot pursuit, he left his club behind. The locals, with their love of all things tidy, eventually placed the forgotten club in the town's coat of arms. This probably explains why, for as long as can be remembered, the inhabitants of Colmar have been known as the Kolbnarren - the mad clubmen.








Strasbourg - a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Strasbourg, not only the capital and principal city of the Alsace region of France, but also a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to the richness of its architectural heritage in the town center, the "Grand Ile". It is very rare for an entire town center to receive this distinction, but in 1988 Strasbourg was the first site in France to receive such an honor. Situated on the Ill river where it flows into the Rhine on the  border with Germany, Strasbourg also is the official seat of the European Parliament!
Overlooking the city is the Strasbourg cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic art. The outside of the cathedral is like a picture book of the Middle Ages with hundreds of sculptures, which almost seem to leap out at you from the wall, make great use of light and shadow effects. There is so much to see from the stained glass windows to the huge organ, but make sure you do not miss the Renaissance astronomical clock, which mechanism dates back to 1842. Admire the parade by the apostles every day at half past noon!
Strasbourg cathedral
Visit the Petite France quarter, the most picturesque district of old Strasbourg, where Fishermen, millers and tanners once lived and worked. The magnificent half-timbered houses date from the 16th and 17th centuries. Their sloping roofs open out onto lofts where hides were once dried.
La Petite France
Strasbourg is also known for its outstanding cuisine. Cooking is more than just an art of living, it is vibrant and living culture backed up by centuries of tradition, yet constantly experimenting and innovating, driven on by the talent of the great chefs and the dynamism of the city's restaurant owners. Traditional Alsatian specialties such as sauerkraut, baeckeoffe , flambe tart, spaetzle and foie gras can be best enjoyed in a "winstub", local Alsatian taverns known for their friendly atmosphere. Strasbourg is renowned for its hundreds of restaurants and brasseries offering the latest culinary trends and dishes from all around the world.  

When you hear some locals talk you might ask yourself: Is this French? Is this German? Actually, the Alsation dialect is a mixture of both. This area went back and forth couple of times in history and you will still hear older people in the rural areas speak German dialect. 




Amsterdam - the Venice of the North


Although the seat of Netherland's government is in The Hague, Amsterdam is the nominal capital. It is also the country's largest city, with a population of more than 750,000, and the most visited, with over 3,5 million foreign visitors a year.
A visit to Amsterdam is not complete without enjoying the canals. They are a symbol of Amsterdam and of great cultural and historical value. In 2010 the World Heritage Committee decided to submit the 17th century canal ring area to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city does its utter best to maintain and protect the canals - their Venice of the North.
One of the must sees is the Golden Bend, the canal from Leidsestraat to Vijzelstraat with the most beautiful and magnificent stretch of canal houses in Amsterdam.



The Reguliersgracht and Herengracht has a unique view over fifteen brides. Make sure to stand on the side of the street with the odd numbers! One of the most picturesque bridges of Amsterdam is the Magere Brug (the skinny bridge), which at night is romantically illuminated.
Visit the Begijnhof, an inner court that dates from around 1300 with typical Amsterdam-style houses. Its fascinating history with many historic events includes the sisterhood of Catholics and even miracles. The women that joined the sisterhood of Catholics were called "begijnen". These were women who lived like nuns without ever taken an oath to God. They cared for the sick and gave education to the poor. With their own set of rules they were for instance allowed to leave the sisterhood to get married.
A story the world needs to hear can be found in the Anne Frank House. It's situated in the center of Amsterdam and holds the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. Anne was a normal girl in exceptional circumstances. For more than two years she described the events of her daily life in hiding in her diary. Anne's original diary along with some of her other notebooks are on display as part of Anne Frank House's permanent exhibition. The collection and temporary exhibitions focus on the wartime persecution of Jews, contemporary fascism, racism and antisemitism. See for yourself how Anne, her family and other people were living while hiding from the Nazis. Take into account, that visiting the Anne Frank House is a moving experience, which has already touched millions of people from all over the world.

After you are done sightseeing consider some shopping around the beautiful squares and experience some culinary delights. Cheese is important in Holland, and no less so in Amsterdam. The economy of the country and the city revolves around their main consumer exports like flowers, cheese and beer. You have the opportunity to visit multiple cheese shops, and taste the flavors of many different regions of Holland. Wander over to the Oud Zuid neighborhood on Stadionweg to L'Amuse and compare Dutch cheese to the rest of the world. With over 400 varieties, this shop keeps their cheese stock in climate-controlled facilities according to each one's specific needs.





Cologne - a city bursting with life

Very well known for its cathedral, cultural diversity, carnival and koelsch beer, Cologne is a city that draws visitors back time and time again. The heart of Cologne is the world-famous cathedral, the city's pride and joy that towers over everything around. True locals are quite literally overcome with emotion when they glimpse the spires of Cologne cathedral in distance on returning from their travels. This famous landmark is one of the largest churches in Europe and one of Germany's top attractions, with more than six million people visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site every year. At approximately 157 meters in height, the Gothic cathedral has the second tallest church spire in Europe and houses the shrine of the Three Wise Men. Another highlight at the cathedral since 2007 is the window by artist Gerhard Richter. You can climb one of the two towers and the effort is rewarded by a fabulous panoramic view!



To experience Cologne's special appeal for yourself, drop in to one of the traditional and welcoming bars in the area around the Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares or the large brewery taverns scattered throughout the old quarter. Koelsch - the city's signature beer - never stops flowing, Rhineland specialties are served and there is so much friendly and light-hearted revelry that it feels like one big year-round carnival. Each brewery's koelsch has its own individual flavor. The beer waiter, known as Koebes, remain immune to the general merriment: a certain gruffness is the hallmark of a genuine Koebes. They will refill empty koelsch glasses without being asked, so if you have had enought to drink, you will need to cover your glass with a beer mat - or don't drain your glass. The best brewery taverns include the Paeffgen, Gaffel Haus and Malzmuehle - no trip to Cologne is complete without calling in one of these!



However, there is much more to Cologne than its bars and breweries, as proven by the many significant museums, ArtCologne and other art fairs. The best known museums include the Ludwig Museum, the Romano-Germanic Museum with exhibits from 2,000 years of Cologne history and many, many more. If you are looking to stretch your legs, the Rhine park is a great idea. One of the largest parks in the city, situated on the Eastern banks of the river and therefore regarded by locals as on the "wrong side" of the Rhine, it is quite an adventure to get there. You take the cable car that departs from the Zoo und Flora botanical gardens and crosses the river. While you're there, ascend to the 100 meter high observation deck of the Koeln Triangle skyscraper for what is probably the best view of Cologne's old quarter and cathedral. Although the scenery is mesmerizing, don't forget to pick up a souvenir: original Eau de Cologne is as much a part of Cologne as carnival and koelsch!





Upper Middle Rhine Valley - sailing through UNESCO world heritage site and visiting Ruedesheim

In recognition of its status as one of the world's oldest and most magnificent cultural landscapes, UNESCO included the Upper Middle Rhine Valley in its list of World Cultural Heritage sites in 2002. The romantic river valley is lined with castles and palaces. 


It extends from the old Roman town of Koblenz, via the myth - enshrouded Loreley rock, to Bingen and Ruedesheim, and includes the steep vineyards that are home to the famous Rhine wines. In the Romantic era, the Rhine began to be associated with Germany's fate. It carried not only goods and people from many different countries, but was also a channel for a wealth of cultural influences and ideas - the religious buildings along the river, in particular, bear eloquent testimony to this.

Drosselgasse in Ruedesheim
Since the beginning of the last century, Ruedesheim has been an attraction for English and German romantic writers, and considering the modest number of its residents, is today one of the most visited towns in Germany. Historical buildings, such as the Klunkhardshof, the fortified Adlerhof, the thousand year old Broemser Castle and the ruin of Ehrenfels Castle offer world class sightseeing. Don't forget to enjoy a glass of the world famous Ruedesheim Riesling in one of the many wine taverns in the Drosselgasse, the heart of Ruedesheim's old town. Built in the 15th century, the Drosselgasse was for boat owners to move items from the river to homes in the town. 




Heidelberg - visit Germany's number one tourist attraction

You have the choice of a half day excursion by coach to Heidelberg on day four. A world famous city and perennial tourist favorite with a justified international and national reputation as one of Germany's top tourist destinations. The city's urban development, its university life, many fine restaurants, shopping opportunities, cultural offerings and wide variety of annual events all contribute to the worldwide popularity of the city which even Goethe felt had something "quite ideal". Situated at the banks of the Neckar river and overlooked by the beautiful castle, you will sure fall in love with this amazing city right away.





Every year, around three million people visit Heidelberg, which makes it the number one tourist attraction in Germany.
700 years of history and a dwarf who could hold his drink? Yes, the main attraction for all visitors, of course, is Heidelberg Castle, perched on the slopes of Mount Koenigstuhl some 70 meters above the Neckar river. It's easy to see why, too. The castle and its neighboring buildings are among the most impressive sights anywhere in Germany. During your guided tour you will appreciate the history of the castle, which has experienced its fair share of ups and downs over 700 years. To get them through these turbulent times, it's likely that the lords of the castle would have made regular use of the royal wine cellar. This is home to the biggest wine barrel in the world! Made from 130 oak trees, it is eight yards wide, over nine yards in length and has a capacity of precisely 55,345 gallons! For a time, the Elector Karl Theodor employed the Italian court dwarf "Perkeo" to guard the barrel. Perkeo's name is said to have been derived from his foundness for drink. Whenever anyone asked him if he would like another glass of wine, the answer came back "perche no?", which means "why not?" in Italian.
Make sure you stroll through the beautiful gardens and take pictures from the city laying to your feet!

From the castle a path takes you straight down into the old town. At the center of this is the market square where you'll find one of Heidelberg's beautiful fountains, grand period houses, lots of cafes and even more little shops. Towering above this delightful scene is the famous Church of the Holy Spirit. From here it's just a stone's throw to Kornmarkt, for many locals Heidelberg's prettiest square. The Madonna from 1718, who is held aloft by angels atop a fountain pillar, was meant to entice Protestants to return to the "truth faith" following the Catholic Revival. Today we can all enjoy the statue, which together with the castle forms one of the town's most popular postcard motifs.



The next square, Karlsplatz, is also decorated by a fountain which offers a playful take on the famous humanist and cosmographer Sebastian Muenster. That such feats should be honored reveals much about Heidelberg. Because over the course of the centuries a great many scholars have shaped the intellectual and cultural ideas of this former electoral seat. Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Robert Bunsen, Max Weber and Karl Jaspers, for example, are just some of the famous names who have studied or taught at the university - the oldest on German soil. Today, around 28,000 student are enrolled here, and although they work hard, it's not uncommon to see them in the numerous cafes and bars. Because drinking is another Heidelberg tradition, as you can experience for yourself over a glass of wine or a home brewed beer in beautiful old student pubs such as "Zum Seppl" or "Zum Roten Ochsen"

After this fun filled day, you will sure say as many more visitors and locals said before: I lost my heart in Heidelberg!







Freiburg - a sun kissed town with a touch of Mediterranen


Are the people of Freiburg so happy because their town gets more sun than anywhere else in Germany, or have they been rewarded with so much sunshine precisely because they are so good - natured? It's difficult to say. But what is certain is that life is good in Germany's southernmost major town, where every visit is a memorable one. Even on those rare occasions when the sun has decided to take a day off. But Freiburg's friendly locals are not the only drawcard. Other highlights include one of Germany's prettiest old quarter, a wealth of culture and history, lots of cafes and inviting taverns, great food and drink, warm hospitality and scenic surroundings. What's more, the town's overall atmosphere is easygoing, laid back and more carefree than most. It's almost- in a word- Mediterranean. 
Old and new town hall

The best way to experience this is on a stroll through the old town, which always buzzes with life and has the minster's 116 meter high Gothic tower as its dominant feature. Muensterplatz square is the biggest in the town center and hosts a farmers market every day except Sunday. The main sights here are the Historical Merchants' Hall from 1532 with its deep-red facade and colorful corner towers, the Museum of Municipal History in the Haus Zum Schoenen Eck from 1761, and the Alte Wache, now the House of Badensian Wines- certainly not the worst use for this beautiful old guardhouse! Augustinerplatz is the other central square in the old town. Overlooked by an Augustinian Abbey and the ruins of the town wall, this is a popular rendezvous for locals, which probably has something to do with the huge steps that flank one side. The lively atmosphere here is strongly reminiscent of the Spanish Steps in Rome. Rathausplatz, location of the Old and New Town Hall, Gothic St. Martin's Church and a fountain with a statue of the Franciscan monk Berthold Schwarz (supposedly the inventor of gunpowder who lived at the monastery that once stood on the square). Oberlinden and Unterlinden are two rather more peaceful squares, and both have a beautiful old lime tree as their centerpiece. True connoisseurs of Freiburg describe pretty little Adelhauser-Platz, which lies away from the beaten track, as the most beautiful square in town. During the year there are countless festivals and celebrations going on at these marvelous places. 


Beautiful view of Freiburg with the Black Forest in the background

Typical for Freiburg are its Baechle which you will see everywhere while strolling through the historical old quarter. The water splashes and gurgles its way through the narrow streets in these tiny channels running alongside the pavements. Originally, they were probably built to supply water for everyday use and for putting out fires, or as drainage canals. Today they are a quirky attraction popular with locals and visitors alike and a great way to cool off in the Summer. The toy store in the Fischerau, close to Augustinerplatz sells the "Baechleboot", boats with a string attached for the little ones to play with in the Baechle. Superstition has it that if a visitor steps in one by accident, this will not be their last visit to Freiburg!
Baechle in Konviktstrasse

Also, don't miss to look at the ground! Beautiful mosaics out of Rhinestones show what kind of store can be found. For example a pretzel will tell you that there is a bakery, or a pig directs to a butcher. 
Let's talk a little bit about Freiburg's minster. Built between 1200 and 1500, the mighty Minster of our Lady is regarded by art historians around the world as an architectural masterpiece of the Gothic period and a cultural monument of great importance. The 116 meter tower of this impressive red sandstone construction is clearly visible from afar and is often referred to as "the most beautiful spire in Christendom". Inside the church are a number of medieval works of art: altars, stained glass (each was donated by a different craft guild. The deep red color was achieved by suspending solid gold nano-particles instead of red dye) and sculptures, including many images and sculptures of the Virgin Mary to whom the minster is dedicated and the patron saints of the town, George, Lambert and Alexander.


Freiburg's minster







Speyer - visit one of Germany's oldest cities


Ready to go back almost 5000 years in time? That's right! 5000 years ago a farmer settled with his family close to what is now the city of Speyer. Now with a population of about 50000 Speyer started its glory once Emperor Augustus  wanted to expand the Roman Empire and lead his troops to built the first fort in 50 B.C. Lots of evidence of this and older periods can be found around town. One of the most renowned finds of around 1500 B.C. is the "Golden Hat of Schifferstadt", a bronze age artifact made of thin sheet gold and served as the external decoration of a head-dress, probably of an organic material, with a brim and a chin strap. You can find this and many more historical finds in the Historical Museum of Speyer



Speyer was also a Bishop's seat which was first given away in the year 346. 
The laying of the foundation stone for the new cathedral also give the decisive impulse for the further development of the town. In the year 1061 the cathedral is consecrated and finally completed in 1111. It is a building which dwarfs all other Romanesque churches in Germany in its size and significance, symbolizing Imperial rule and Christianity with the burial place for eight! German Emperors and Kings and four Queens.
A large number of events, decisions and meetings underpin Speyer's role in the history of medieval Europe: Henry IV's departure for Canossa in 1077, the preaching of Bernard of Clariyaux and the beginning of the second crusade at Christmas 1141, the handing-over of Richard the Lionheart to Henry IV in 1193 or Friedrich II's first journey through Germany in the year 1213.
In 1294 the bishop's rule ends and Speyer becomes an imperial free town with its own government and administration. Clear, external evidence of this political and economic importance in the empire is the Old Town Gateway from this period, one of the few remains of the town's fortifications.
At the same time as these great historical events the first Jewish community emerges on the edge of the bishops' town, under the special protection of Emperor Henry IV and which, in spite of pogroms and persecution has helped influence the spiritual life of Speyer throughout the ages. Witness of the Jewish culture and everyday life is seen in the remains of the synagogue and Jewish bathhouse as well as in the Historical Muserum of the Palatinate, as mentioned above.

After you are done with sightseeing you might be interested in some culinary delights. "In Speyer, the Palatinate begins to turn into Italy", that's what the locals proudly say when asked about the culinary pleasures awaiting the visitor. Hundred of outdoor seats front the ice cream parlors (serving home made Italian ice, a must try), taverns and bistros that are arranged like a string of pearls extending from the cathedral to the old city gate. Even "Father Rhine", as locals affectionately call the river that borders Speyer, gets incorporated into several of these establishments. The tempting aroma of delicious specialties hangs in the air, especially when Summer Folk Festivals turn Speyer's streets and squares into a giant open air celebration.












Passport and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required for each participant. 

Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to the USA.

A non- US citizen must consult appropriate consulates regarding visa and other document requirements. Obtaining required visas and any other required travel documentation, and assuring these are complete and correct in all ways, is the sole responsibility of each participant. We are not in a position to obtain or verify the accuracy  or completeness of any participant's visa or other required documentation and shall not be responsible or liable for delay or missed portion of any cruise or cruise tour or other problems resulting from the participant lacking the appropriate travel documentation.

Cruise the Rhine River - our article in the Fort Mill Magazine







I am writing this article while sitting on the sun deck of the AmaCello, our cruising home for this past week while exploring one of the most romantic rivers in Europe, the Rhine...




Sipping on a café latte, I watch the breathtakingly beautiful scenery pass by.  I am taken to my inner calmness by the mumbling of the water and the simple wave to a family of bikers along the riverbank.  Ever since we stepped aboard this 4.5 star vessel, we cannot stop wondering why we had not ventured on this cruise until now.
We arrived, unpacked, and set off to explore the ship already able to relax and enjoy discovering what this special journey would behold.  No running in and out of a tour bus or cars.  No checking in and out of hotels every day.  Our floating home took all the hassle out of traveling.  We embrace beautiful landscapes on the way to romantic towns and vibrant cities.  We often wish we could hold onto these moments forever.
With a maximum of 150 passengers and a crew ratio of 1 to 4 aboard most river cruise ships, it is the intimate personal atmosphere that discerns a river cruise from other cruises.  Our 170 sq ft cabin features 5-star amenities of down bedding, bathrobes, slippers, and upscale toiletries in the luxurious bathroom and a flat panel television.  The French balcony doors slide open to the romantic slate roofed villages, medieval castles, and vineyards which float by.  “Doesn’t it feel like we’re in the middle of a fairy tale?” I asked my husband.
Every morning felt like unwrapping a present.  What scenic gift would await us today?  Each and every time, we were amazed by the port cities and enriching experiences our Captain offered.  Daily options included a day of land exploration or relaxing onboard with personally selected plans.
Our mornings began with the breakfast buffet, including a glass of champagne, made to order omelets, accented with freshly baked pumpkin seed bread or pastry.  All AMA Waterways cruise ships in Europe include personal pastry chefs that begin baking at 2:30 in the morning.  So, the scent of freshly baked goods winding through the aisles of the ship serve as the only wake up call you need.

While enjoying a gorgeous view and quenching our energy needs with breakfast, we planned our day selecting from an in-depth guided tour or a more leisurely walking tour.  For either tour, the cruise staff provided every passenger with a state of the art headset.  These allowed us to hear our experienced English-speaking tour guide even if we lingered at a site or shop after the group had moved on.  We also took advantage of the complimentary bikes and explored the town by designing our own route.
One of our favorite detours was the Culinary Delights: Bites and Sights tour in France where we visited a winery in the Alsace region learning to pair wine with dark chocolate.  Yum!
For lunch, we either stayed in town and ventured to try the local fare or returned to the ship where we chose a light lunch or mouthwatering delicacies of the onboard restaurant.
Afternoons were spent aboard the ship or exploring the beauty of the town on our own by visiting breweries, attending wine tastings, shopping the wonderful boutiques, or simply sitting in a café enjoying the atmosphere of a quaint market square.  When staying aboard, complimentary espresso drinks, sandwiches and pastries awaited the guests.
The cruise offered an amazing multi-course dining experience uncovering regional specialties accompanied by free-flowing local wines and beers.  The food was absolutely delicious with choices for any palate and remained truly a 4-star experience at each endeavor.   AMA Waterways is the only river cruise line to be an official member of La Chaîne de Rôtisseurs; ranked one of the most prestigious culinary organizations since being founded in 1950 in Paris.  Membership is considered an achievement of world-class culinary acumen, and we experienced this with each and every meal.
After dinner, our cruise manager, Debbie would greet us joyfully: “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to tonight’s featured show!”  Whether traditional local folk dance, a classical quartet, or 70s music, our new friends joined us willingly.  Kevin and Sara, newlyweds from California; John, a single traveler from Maine; and Bob and Anne, a retired couple from Florida, now joined us as we embraced the country we cherish.  It is the diversity of people that makes mingling on board so much fun and creates the connections for future cruise trips together.
Returning to our luxurious cabin for the night, we found room service had turned down our beds, adorned them with chocolates alongside a recipe card reflecting the night’s featured main course signed by executive chef, Primus Perchtold.  What a wonderful idea!  I will definitely surprise my dinner guests back home with these amazing recipes.
Even after growing up in Germany, my husband and I always wanted to cruise this particular region of Europe.  We started in Amsterdam and are now on our way to Basel, Switzerland.  We completely agree that Amsterdam is “the Venice of the North” with its beautiful canals, bridges, and colorful houses.  When you visit Amsterdam, make sure to stop by L’Amuse on Stadionweg; a cheese shop that offers over 400 varieties of Dutch cheeses.

We passed through the Upper Rhine Valley, one of many UNESCO (United Nation Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage sites on this cruise, emphasized by medieval castles greeting us from the tops of nearby hills.  From there, we traveled onward to Rüdesheim and Speyer, as well as the cosmopolitan city of Cologne.  Approaching Cologne, we admired the two spires of the gorgeous Gothic cathedral long before we docked.  After completing the guided walking tour of old town, we advanced to the Gaffel Haus at the Alter Markt, one of so many local microbreweries, to taste the world famous Kölsch.
The following day we cherished a view looking far beyond the castle walls.  Admiring the rolling Neckar River swaying through the old town Heidelberg was like warm rain on a sunny day that truly warmed our romantic side.  The world’s largest wine barrel is located in the cellar of the castle.   Created from 170 oak trees, the magnificent barrel secures a massive 55,345 gallons of wine.  Heidelberg also houses the oldest university on German soil properly named Heidelberg University.  After visiting Heidelberg, I did say, “I lost my heart in Heidelberg” to borrow that special phrase from Fred Raymond‘s famous song.
Strasbourg presented us with another cathedral, Nôtre Dame.  The 59 foot tall astronomical clock is securely embraced by the architectural design of Nôtre Dame.  We experienced additional historical influences while on a guided tour of Petite France Quarter gaining appreciation for covered bridges and canals of the extended waterways.
While some of our friends detoured to explore Colmar, a quaint town on the French side of the Rhine with picturesque half-timbered houses and a history that goes back over 1000 years, we preferred to visit our former hometown of Freiburg.  Surrounded by the ravishing mountains of the Black Forest on one side and the Rhine Valley with the French Vosges on the other, Freiburg is known as Germany’s sunniest place.  There is no better location to have an ice cream than at Lazzarin’s at the Rathausplatz.  We strolled over beautiful Rhine stone mosaics reminiscing about the Kaiser Joseph Street main shopping mile and ended our tour by accidentally stepping into the famous Bächle.  Stepping into the Bächle solidifies fate’s promise of a return to this beautiful land sometime in the near future.

For us, our wonderful time here on the AmaCello had to come to a close.  Looking up from this very paper, I visually captured the outlines of Basel with barges, boats, and cruise ships docking land side like a string of pearls.  Basel is our last stop where we will bid farewell to the AmaCello Rhine River cruise and begin our land program in Switzerland.
My husband nudges me gently, reminding me of a final indulgence that awaits me at the onboard spa.  When done with my massage and facial, we will certainly enjoy making plans for our next dream river cruise.  Maybe the Danube from Budapest to Vienna, or the Douro in Portugal.  How about a wine themed cruise on the Rhône and Seine in France, or even all the way to Vietnam and Cambodia?  There are several river cruises conducted in Europe, Russia, Asia, and Africa.  For now, I am going to enjoy the beautiful scenery while I finish my latte then meander to the spa, where I’ll relax and wonder where in the world our next journey will take us.
Ellen Rauchhaus
Ellen Rauchhaus, a native European, is a travel consultant for almost twenty years, a river cruise specialist and the owner of European Delights by TripDesign.  Ellen can be contacted at (248) 982 4547 or emailtripdesign4u@gmail.com.  More information can be found here: tripdesign4u.com and facebook.com/tripdesign4u.