The season is officially upon us when the world seems to bloom with new sights and sounds to discover. One region that truly dazzles this time of year is along the Rhine River through the countryside of the Netherlands and Belgium, where millions of dormant tulip bulbs bloom each spring and cloak the landscapes in color. This spectacular performance by Mother Nature is not to be missed, so we encourage you to forgo the traditional spring cleaning in favor of a spring European getaway on an incredible river cruise.

Voyages along the Rhine are where flower-filled views meet meandering canals, and medieval architecture presides over bustling town squares that exude modern life. A “Tulip Time” itinerary typically sails from Amsterdam, beginning  with overnight stays. From there you will explore charming historic riverside towns where stair-stepped gables, imposing castles and cobbled alleyways take you back a century or two Other stops might include urban sophistication like that found in Rotterdam, sitting in stark contrast to the old-world charms of the rest of the region, with its contemporary architecture and high-energy boulevards.



For more springtime sunshine, follow the hillside paths through the endless tulip fields, punctuated by the iconic windmills of Holland. In a similar distinction between haute and historic, a typical Flemish itinerary will showcase the classic Dutch culture in Holland’s oldest city, Dordrecht, as well as Belgium’s high-fashion and art scene with an overnight stay in Antwerp. These sailing are filled with opportunities to taste world-class beers and chocolates, see the inspired brushstrokes of Van Gogh, discover the ingenuity of Dutch engineering and embrace the warm welcome of the destinations and your luxury river ship.
This is no time to spend cleaning out closets and daydreaming about adventures yet to come. Now is the time to find what discoveries will bloom when you sail through Europe on a fantastic river cruise.

Contact ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com to help you pick the right cruise-line and itinerary! She is an all inclusive expert & certified river cruise specialist. Her professional planning services bring you added value at no additional cost.  

For true beer lovers, the highlight of any vacation is hoisting pints of the local stouts, IPAs and lagers of their vacation destination. They will not be disappointed at these destinations, where the quality and variety of the beer attracts millions every year.

Munich, Germany - No beer bucket list would be complete without Munich, the place where millions of barley buffs converge every year for the 16-day festival called Oktoberfest. But even if you can’t make it during that time, you can still enjoy the city’s legendary beer gardens and the famed 425-year-old brewery Hofbräuhaus.

Montreal, Canada - For decades now, Montreal has been a mecca for brewpubs, perfecting the art of microbrewery. Beer brewed here is often defined by its color—blonde, rousse, ambrée or noir—than by its style at such places as the world-famous Le Cheval Blanc.

Amsterdam, Netherlands - Home to globally popular brands Heineken and Amstel, Amsterdam is a town steeped in beer history. Locals like to linger long over their pints of pils at neighborhood watering holes called brown bars, where the darkened interiors inspire profound conversations.

Dublin, Ireland - Guinness. Need we say more? Fine…inside the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s top tourist attraction, you’ll get a grand history lesson along with a perfectly poured pint. Afterward, soak in the city’s thriving pub culture at The Porterhouse, Dublin’s first brewpub, to sample their homemade porters.

Brussels, Belgium - This is the capital of Belgian beer, the award-winning ale that has been traditionally brewed by monks since the Middle Ages. Here, beer aficionados debate over the quality of their lambics at charming café-bars called estaminets.

ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com believes HANDS DOWN that a River Cruise is the BEST way to visit these destinations and sample the local beers! She's been there and done it.  Contact Chris to learn more and start planning your European river cruise, today! #tet4u

Rome is called the Eternal City because ancient Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world, or how many empires rose or fell, that Rome would go on forever. The enduring quality of the city continues to this day and it’s no surprise with all its beauty and intrigue that Rome remains one of the most beloved tourist destinations in the world.

Getting around the city is easy. There’s walking, the metro, or one of Rome’s hop-on-hop-off narrated bus tours. To truly experience the magic of Rome, these are the experiences that shouldn’t be missed.

Tour the Colosseum
No matter how many times you view photos of Rome’s iconic and magnificent Colosseum, seeing it in person is amazing due to its sheer enormity. Gladiators once fought in this massive stadium, built in 70 A.D. The amphitheater is incredibly impressive from the exterior, but walking through its interior is a must. Although ravaged by time and human destruction, what remains powerfully echoes the glory and grandeur of Rome. We were astonished by its intricate underground infrastructures that supported the staged spectacles above. One word of advice is to arrive early in the morning or book a tour for front-of-the-line privileges.

​Walk the Roman Forum
There’s something humbling yet magical about walking in the footsteps of Rome’s emperors like Caesar Augustus. The Roman Forum flourished as the center of Roman life in the days of the Republic and early Empire. Though much of the ruins are mere shells of the original temples, arches, and basilicas, what remains is both moving and archaeologically fascinating. Climbing nearby Palatine Hill provided spectacular panoramic views of the Roman and Imperial Forums, Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum.

Visit the Vatican Museum
The glories of the ancient and medieval world are on display in the lavish papal palace known as the Vatican Museum. It can be overwhelming to decide what to see due to its enormity. Having a guidebook is a tremendous help. Arriving early is imperative to beat the crowds. Filled with a treasure trove of statues, mummies, tapestries and Renaissance art, every room provides another awe-inspiring experience. No matter how many times we’ve visited, our favorite showstopper remains Michelangelo’s painted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. The astonishing achievement took four years to complete as the artist laid flat on scaffolding while creating this magnificent work of art.

See St. Peter’s Basilica
From the Sistine Chapel, there’s a time-saving shortcut leading to another world-renowned site, St. Peter’s Basilica. Considered the holiest shrine of the Catholic Church, the basilica is built on the site of St. Peter’s tomb. The Pope delivers Mass within its glorious walls and Bernini’s massive bronze canopy towers over the altar. The basilica also contains Michelangelo’s famous Pietà. The marble statue, completed when he was only 24 years old, depicts a grieving Mary cradling her crucified son Jesus.
Be aware, the Vatican adheres to a dress code.

Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
Rome is the city of fountains—and there are thousands. But, its most treasured and famous is the Trevi Fountain. Legend proclaims that if you throw a coin in the fountain, right hand over left shoulder, it ensures your return to Rome. True or not, there’s a lot of coin tossing happening at this exquisitely sculpted, ever-flowing Baroque masterpiece.

Explore the Jewish Quarter
One of the most underappreciated places to see and explore in Rome is the Jewish Quarter. From the 16th through the 19th centuries, Rome’s Jewish population was forced to live in the cramped ghetto along the Tiber River. While the medieval Jewish ghetto no longer exists, the quarter is still home to Rome’s Jewish community. The Great Synagogue of Rome sits impressively in the heart of the former seven-acre ghetto.
The most fascinating sights to behold in the quarter are the colonnaded ruins of the Portico of Octavia and nearby ancient Teatro di Marcello.
​
Experience the Pantheon at Night
Rome after dark transforms into a magical wonderland. Many of its iconic sights are illuminated, but there’s something special about viewing the Pantheon, Rome’s most preserved monument at night.
The Pantheon was a Roman temple dedicated to the gods. Original structures burned, but the current temple dates back to 120 A.D. It was a wonderful surprise the first time we came upon it accidentally at night. The interior is a must-see during the day. However, it’s unexpected majestic presence when turning the corner after dark is always an unforgettable experience.

Wining and Dining in Rome
The Italians are masters of the art of fine food. Truth be told, we haven’t had anything but great cuisine and good wine in Rome. Ambiance makes a huge difference. Most dining establishments have outdoor seating—a huge criterion for us each time we visit. It’s hard to beat dining overlooking flowing fountains and surrounded by ancient history. For visitors that truly want to tap into the region’s specialties, there are a few must-tries. Spaghetti alla carbonara (consisting of an egg and bacon sauce), carciofi alla guiuda (Jewish-style artichokes), and gnocchi alla romana (Italian dumplings) are well-known mouth-watering Roman dishes. No meal is complete without wine—even the basic house wine (vino della casa) is usually a good choice. Roman desserts are delectable. When tummies are too full for tiramisu or another sweet treat, there’s always gelato—which can be found everywhere throughout the city.

Italian painter and architect Giotto di Bondone said, “Rome is the city of echoes, the city of illusions, and the city of yearning.” Perhaps it’s why each time you visit you yearn for the moment of return.

​From a former power station that houses monumental pieces of contemporary art to modern marvels of engineering that are as awe-inspiring on the outside as the art they contain, here’s our personal list for the world’s most spectacular art museums.
 
GUGGENHEIM, BILBAO, SPAIN
Built in a former shipyard, this titanium, glass and limestone building is one of the most celebrated pieces of architecture in modern times and placed the industrial city of Bilbao firmly on the cultural map. The museum is home to modern and contemporary art from all over the world. Expect irregularly shaped galleries, large glass curtains and unexpected design features.
 
MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART, DOHA, QATAR
Designed by I.M. Pei, the same architect that designed the Louvre’s glass pyramid, the Museum of Islamic Art is a modern masterpiece inspired by ancient Islamic architecture. As the name suggests, the museum holds one of the world’s most impressive collections of Islamic art. From royal treasures dating back to the seventh century to ordinary household objects, every piece in this extraordinary museum tells a story.
 
TATE MODERN, LONDON, UK
Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, the iconic space is now home to spectacular galleries that include the station’s original turbine hall, the boiler house and oil tanks. The museum is dedicated to international modern and contemporary art. From monumental pieces of sculpture to colorful abstract paintings, you’ll be surprised by the range of exhibitions. Films, performances and workshops are also on offer.
 
NITEROI CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM, RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
It took five years to build this museum designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, but this spectacular saucer-shaped structure now hosts one of Brazil’s most important contemporary art collections. Like a film set from a science fiction movie, the galleries hover over Boa Viagem beach. With its panoramic views, the iconic museum is the perfect home for artistic creation and dream-like ideas.

Contact All Inclusive Vacation and Tour Specialist Chris Rakes to learn more and  help you get there!

Perhaps you've already stood inside the storied walls of the Colosseum or marveled at the chiseled lines of the statue of David. Maybe you’ve cruised through the most romantic of ancient canals. Even if you’ve experienced the highlights of Rome, Florence and Venice, there’s an entire country of diverse regions, people, traditions and cuisine you haven’t seen, experienced or tasted in Italy. And there is no better way to get to these picturesque towns, than with the insight and expertise of a local guide and ease of transportation; than on the right tour.

Touring is the best way to rediscover Italy. In the last year alone, not only did I go myself, but I sent several clients back to Italy to find these undiscovered places. Because I believe it is the best way to see Italy, I used tours that focus on those out-of-the-way cities.  These itineraries really get you to see the beauty of Italy often missed when you only visit Rome, Florence, and Venice.  Even if you have experienced the highlights of Rome, Florence and Venice, there's an entire country of diverse regions, people, traditions and cuisine you haven't seen or tasted in Italy.  It is not a "visit once and done" destination.  Italy is a place you can go to repeatedly and still want more! I'm already planning my next trip back!!

​ALBEROBELLO
Take in views of the "Trullo," white-washed conical-roofed houses. Created out of local limestone, these homes, which once housed peasants, could be easily dismantled and moved

​RIOMAGGIORE
The largest of the five fishing villages that make up Italy's Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is one of its most romantic sights.Enjoy the dramatic scenery, colorful houses, and harbors filled with fishing boats. ​

The transition from the bliss that is a Crystal River voyage – a week or two filled with smiling faces granting your every wish with a warm “my pleasure,” Michelin-inspired cuisine served with perfect wine pairings, a personal butler at your service with just the touch of an iPad in your suite – back to real life, can feel like an alarm clock that sounded too soon. Inverse logic dictates that the anticipation of an upcoming Crystal vacation can make the days leading up to embarkation drag on…and on. Enter: Crystal River Cruises’ pre- and post-cruise land experiences, extended land programs that allow you to prolong the luxury vacation you’ve been waiting for.
Specifically, four immersive programs offered in 2018 that delve deeper into some of the most famously fascinating destinations in Europe invite you to explore ashore, with every detail crafted by Crystal’s own experts. Three nights in Prague, Paris, Berlin and Slovenia – each program packed with experiences designed to authentically showcase the many facets of each destination, with luxury accommodations selected particularly for their historical and architectural significance to each city.
Exclusive dining reservations at acclaimed venues, an enriching roster of adventures that offer special access and insightful perspectives from experts, and the ability to “Design Your Time” make Crystal’s pre- and post-cruise land experiences exactly what you want them to be.

Let the vacation continue…

Prague Discovery
Explore the “City of a Hundred Spires” that sits along the Vltava River. Prague’s history is vast, and its present is vibrant. Bespoke experiences showcase traditions of the Czech Republic that have endured for centuries, as well as the awe-inspiring architecture that presides imposingly over the city’s modern culture. Taste Pilsner in the capital of Czech beer, and venture to UNESCO-listed Kutná Hora, returning to the elegant, 14th-century Augustine Hotel after each day’s adventures. *Offered from Budapest
You’ll Always Have Paris
The City of Light’s joie de vivre will, indeed, remain with you long after your return home, imprinted on your memory as clearly as on your passport. The iconic treasures of Paris are yours to explore, from the gilded rooms and gardens of Versailles to the monumental Eiffel Tower and Nôtre Dame. Stroll the romantic Champs Élysées from the centrally located Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome, itself an icon of Parisian charm. *Offered from Amsterdam
Slovenian Treasures
Stretching from the Adriatic Sea to the Slovenian Alps, these three days encompass the quintessential medieval influence of Eastern Europe. Your home base will be the Kempinski Palace in the heart of Portoroz’ city center, with its own private courtyard and expansive wine cellar. Beyond your luxury hotel lie visits to ominous Predjama Castle, the incredibly preserved open-air museum that is Piran, and encounters with the legendary Lipizzaner horses renowned by nobility and beloved by all Slovenians. *Offered from Vienna
The Best of Berlin
Retrace the footsteps of some of history’s most pivotal events and today’s greatest artistic and innovative minds. Pass through Brandenburg Gate, visit prominent World War II sites, and peruse the gritty masterpieces of Berlin’s thriving street art scene, juxtaposed with exclusive tours of the city’s preeminent art museums. Taste the many – many – nuances of traditional German beer, and join the locals in Gendarmenmarkt Square. Berlin’s world-class shopping, dining and bustling historic Mitte District is at your fingertips from your accommodations at the Regent Hotel, one of the most acclaimed luxury hotels in the world. *Offered from Frankfurt

​Crystal’s Extended Land Programs are offered pre- and post-cruise from select cities throughout 2018. Contact Crystal Cruise Expert and Travel Partner, Chris Rakes to Book today, and prolong your Crystal journey.