Grand Circle Cruise Line - Traveler Christmas Markets Along the Rhine 2023
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Grand Circle Cruise Line ®
THE LEADER IN ENRICHING CULTURAL EXPERIENCES SINCE 1958
Your GCCL Travel Planning Guide
PREPARED ESPECIALLY FOR:
Traveler
Christmas Markets Along the Rhine
2023
1
Grand Circle Cruise Line ®
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
I can’t wait to see where my next journey will take me. I know you’re eager to explore the world, too,
and Christmas Markets Along the Rhine itinerary described inside is a perfect start.
We’ve always felt that real travel is about meeting new people and discovering unique cultures—
elements that are at the heart of every Grand Circle Cruise Line experience. That’s why you’ll go
beyond the iconic sites and into the true heart of Europe—exploring alongside you and your group
of 38-45 travelers from beginning to end.
Thanks to our European Program Director, you will be brought into the true heart of the region
and be shown secret treasures that only an insider can know. You can also rely on the seasoned
team at our regional office in Bratislava, who are ready to help 24/7 in case any unexpected
circumstances arise.
Throughout your explorations, you’ll meet local people and gain an intimate understanding of
the real Europe, not just a supeficial view. Get a glimpse of everyday German life when you join a
family for a Home-Hosted Visit in Speyer, enjoying an afternoon of homemade treats and friendly
conversation.
Plus, you can put your own personal stamp on your adventure, like the more than 87% of our
travelers who take advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 31% of
travelers who extend their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Switzerland: Basel, post-trip
extension to Belgium: Brussels & Bruges, or both of these extensions to your European vacation.
I hope you find this Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions, don’t
hesitate to contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-800-221-2610.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Grand Circle Cruise Line
P.S. To view Dates & Prices, watch videos, and read traveler reviews about this popular river
cruise, visit our website at www.gct.com/rxs2023.
2
CONTENTS
A Letter from Harriet Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The GCT Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Freedom to Personalize and Tailor Your Experience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Grand Circle Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The Leader in Solo Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
CHRISTMAS MARKETS ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS:
ALONG THE RHINE CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE
Your Vacation at a Glance: The Cultures of the Rhine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Where You’re Going, What it Costs, Shopping: What to Buy, Customs,
10
and What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shipping & More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Your Detailed Day-To-Day Itinerary . . . . . . . . 12
Pre-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY
Post-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Netherlands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Deck Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Germany. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION Switzerland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements. . . 26 Belgium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . 28
Money Matters: Local Currency & RESOURCES
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Suggested Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . 35 Suggested Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . 39
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . 46
Aboard Your Ship: Cabin Features,
Dining & Services on Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
3
Since 1958, leading the way in enriching
cultural experiences
4
Experience the Grand Circle Difference
We’re the only cruise line with local Program explore the world on a Grand Circle Cruise Line
Directors who are residents of the region you are vacation since 2015, and that number grows
visiting. You will get a true insider’s perspective every year.
that brings each place alive—the stories, food,
We’re the best value in travel, and your trip price
customs, hidden treasures and more.
includes all accommodations, as well as most
Authentic cultural connections, like our meals; all onboard house beer, house wine, and
Exclusive Discovery Series events, take you into soft drinks; guided tours; exclusive Discovery
the heart of your destination’s culture, providing Series events; port charges; and gratuities for local
you with a glimpse of its people’s day-to-day lives. guides and motorcoach drivers.
Solo-friendly travel ensures that you’ll never Our 36 worldwide offices craft truly unique
feel alone, with 1,700 solo travelers joining us itineraries, designed and supported by a team that
through 2023. We’ve had over 8,000 solo travelers lives and works in the area.
The Pillars of Discovery
EXCLUSIVE DISCOVERY SERIES EVENTS
These cultural encounters and learning opportunities
are woven into your trip itinerary, so you’ll gain a
greater sense of daily life in the destinations you visit.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
Meet the local people where they live, work, and play.
You might help a farmer, learn to make ricotta, or
even participate in a welcome ritual.
HOME-HOSTED EXPERIENCES
In groups of 8 travelers, you’ll join a local family
in their home for a meal that proves cross-cultural
exchange is the best seasoning.
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION (GCF) VISIT
We established Grand Circle Foundation to give back
to the world we travel. You might visit a local school,
clean water facility, or a project supporting a local
community.
Left page: Wachau Valley, Krems, Austria; Top: Travelers in Bernkastel, Germany;
Bottom: A Home-Hosted Lunch in Aljmas, Croatia
5
Freedom to Personalize and
Tailor Your Experience
You Can Tailor Your Vacation Your Way
PRE- OR POST-TRIP EXTENSIONS
More than 55% of Grand Circle travelers choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension. Why? You’ll
maximize your discoveries, take advantage of your included international airfare, and you’ll usually travel
with the same group and Program Director from your main trip.
1 You’ll maximize your discoveries—often in 2 Great value: All extensions include accommodations,
an even smaller group than your main trip daily breakfast, and airport transfers.
(on average, 20 travelers with a dedicated
3 Continuity and camaraderie: You’ll usually travel
Program Director)—and take advantage of your
with the same Program Director who leads your
included airfare.
main trip, enjoying more of his or her insider
expertise—and more time to bond with the group.
Optional Extensions offered with your Europe vacation
Basel, Switzerland Brussels & Bruges, Belgium
3 nights pre-trip from $645 3 nights post-trip from $795
Basel, SwitzerlandCaption The Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium
6
87% of travelers personalize
and tailor their vacations.
Here’s how...
ARRIVE EARLY, STAY LATER COMBINE & TAILOR YOUR EXPERIENCES
Arrive early in the first destination of your pre- More than 450 Grand Circle travelers
trip extension or main trip, or stay later in the combined two or more trips in 2019. If
last destination on your main trip or post-trip you’re already overseas, why not see more
extension. By coming early, you’re able to rest of the world and maximize your value by
after your long flight or start exploring on your avoiding the expense and length of another
own. By staying later, you have extra time to international flight?
relax, do last-minute shopping, or explore more
in depth.
AIR PREFERENCES
See how 54% of travelers are personalizing
their air itineraries; you can choose your
STOPOVER IN POPULAR
departure city and airline, depart from one city
INTERNATIONAL CITIES and return to another, upgrade your seat to
Travelers with Grand Circle airfare have the Premium Economy or Business Class, and more.
opportunity to stopover in popular cities
en route to your main trip. Speak with one FREEDOM OF CHOICE DURING
of our Travel Counselors to learn more YOUR TRIP
about your options and to arrange your Our itineraries provide a balance of included
international airfare. activities and free time so you always have the
flexibility to participate in included activities,
go off on your own entirely, or do a mix of both.
To discover how you can personalize
and tailor your vacation, visit
www.gct.com/personalize
Top: Travelers in Prague, Czech Republic;
Right: Paris, France
7
CHANGING PEOPLE'S LIVES
One village, one school, one person at a time
Dear Traveler,
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation, an
entity of the Lewis Family Foundation, as a means
to give back to the world that had already given
us so much. Since then, we’ve pledged or donated
more than $225 million worldwide to support
the education of young people, the preservation
of international treasures and UNESCO World
Heritage Sites, and the conservation of natural
resources for future generations.
Grand Circle Foundation is also there when
Foundation funds are supporting Ukrainians like this family
crisis unfolds in the world. The almost universal who has found safe haven at a shelter in Romania.
condemnation of Russia’s recent actions against
Ukraine has resulted in an unprecedented
outpouring of support for Ukrainian refugees
and orphans. Through the kind generosity of
our travelers, friends, and associates, we have
raised more than $2 million to assist Ukrainians
who have had their lives upended. Our efforts
are being spearheaded by two of our regional
associates, Stefan Mototolea in Romania, and
Kadir Tasdelen in Poland. They have been
instrumental in using their local connections
to cut through the red tape so that Ukrainian
families most in need are getting help. And as
of March 31, more than $800,000 of relief aid in Learn how Moroccan women are bettering their lives with
workshops at the Imik Simik Women’s Association.
the form of clothing, food, medicine, and other
items in short supply has made it directly into the
hands of Ukrainian refugees at shelters in Poland
and Romania. And more is on the way.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
If you visit the Foundation’s home page
Thank you for traveling with us, and for helping at www.grandcirclefoundation.org, you can
to change people’s lives. click on our “Donate to Ukrainian Refugee
Relief” section. To learn about many more
Warm regards,
ongoing Foundation projects, you can sign up
for our weekly e-newsletter, the Inside Scoop,
at www.gct.com/the-inside-scoop.
Harriet R. Lewis
Chair
Grand Circle Foundation
www.grandcirclefoundation.org
8
LEADER IN SOLO-FRIENDLY TRAVEL
Travel solo, but never alone
WHO IS A SOLO TRAVELER?
Some solo travelers may bring a friend or family SOLO-FRIENDLY TRAVEL—
member along, sharing the journey. Others may BY THE NUMBERS
explore on their own, enjoying the security
and camaraderie of group travel. However you
travel, feel confident with the leader in solo- OVER 50%
friendly travel. of all Grand Circle travelers travel solo.
1400 SINGLE SPACES
LOW-COST SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
are being offered in 2023 on all
When you travel solo, your trip is your own. Grand Circle Cruise Line vacations.
That’s why our single spaces have the lowest
single supplements in the industry. See details at
www.gct.com/solo.
YOU’LL ALWAYS FEEL SAFE AND SECURE
Our regional associates know your itinerary inside
and out, and are ready to help 24/7 throughout
your entire trip, should the need arise. And a local
Program Director is there to ensure you always
SCAN ME
feel part of the group. NEW! 101+ Tips
for Solo Women
TRAVEL AMONG FRIENDS Travelers
Groups of 30 travelers on average by land and This complimentary, 96-page
booklet is a comprehensive
38-45 on our River Cruises are ideal for connecting
collection of savvy tips
with fellow travelers. Since one in four travelers specifically for seasoned women
explore with us solo, you’re sure to find friends travelers going solo. Learn about
as you experience the world. safety for solos, packing like a
pro, the best travel apps, self-care
on the road, and more. Scan this
code to view an online copy or to
request one by mail.
9
Christmas Markets Along the Rhine
Switzerland: Basel | France: Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, Strasbourg | Germany: Baden-Baden,
Speyer, Mainz, Koblenz, Cologne | The Netherlands: Nijmegen, Amsterdam
Christmas market, Mainz, Germany
IT’S INCLUDED
FROM PER DAY DAYS
$
3295 $ 275 12 International airfare, airport transfers, government taxes, fees, and
airline fuel surcharges, unless you choose to make your own air
arrangements
Including international airfare
Accommodations for 10 nights aboard a private river ship with
Single Supplement: $595 wireless Internet access now in all common areas and cabins
ALL meals: 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 10 dinners—plus all
MAXIMIZE YOUR DISCOVERIES onboard house beer & wine, as well as soft drinks
& VALUE 7 included tours with personal headsets, up to 7 Christmas
markets, and 4 Exclusive Discovery Series events—Home-Hosted
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS Kaffeeklatsch • German Christmas Traditions conversation • Stollen
all with FREE Single Supplements baking demonstration • Operation Market Garden conversation
Basel, Switzerland Local Program Directors, a Grand Circle Cruise Line exclusive:
3 nights pre-trip from $645 These dedicated experts are with you and your group of 38-45
Brussels & Bruges, Belgium travelers from beginning to end to provide insider’s knowledge and a
3 nights post-trip from $795 local perspective
Gratuities for local guides and motorcoach drivers
Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips
All port charges
5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip
Christmas Markets Along the Rhine
10ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Amsterdam
ENGLAND
Pre-trip extension: 3 nights in
Nijmegen
GERMANY
Basel, Switzerland
Rhin
Day 1 • Depart U.S.
e
Brussels Cologne
(Optional Extension)
Koblenz Day 2 • Basel, Switzerland
CZEC
Mainz REPUB
Embark ship
el
os
M
Port Basel
FRANCE
Speyer
Arrival/ Day 3-4 • France
Departure
Plittersdorf Baden-Baden
Strasbourg Ports Breisach, Germany • Kaysersberg,
Rhine
Optional Extension
Cruise Route Riquewihr Strasbourg
Motor Route Kaysersberg
Breisach
Total Cruising 854 miles
Distance (1378 km)
Day 5-6 • Germany: Upper Rhine
Basel
(Also Optional Extension) AUSTRIA Ports Plittersdorf • Speyer
SWITZERLAND
Day 7-9 • Germany: Middle Rhine
Ports Mainz • Koblenz
Activity Level: Day 10-11 • Germany & the
Netherlands: Lower Rhine
Ports Cologne • Nijmegen • Amsterdam
WHAT TO EXPECT Day 12 • Return to U.S.
Disembark ship
Group Size • Travelers using walkers, crutches,
• This trip has a group size of 38-45 or other mobility aids must travel Post-trip extension: 3 nights in
travelers with a local Program with a companion who can assist Brussels & Bruges, Belgium
Director exclusive to Grand Circle them throughout the trip
• We reserve the right for Program
Pacing Directors to restrict participation,
You can also cruise the reverse
• 11 days, with 10 nights aboard a or in some circumstances send
itinerary from Amsterdam to
river ship travelers home, if their limitations
Basel
• Return flights often require impact the group’s experience
departing in early morning hours
Terrain & Transportation
Physical Requirements • Diverse terrain and uneven walk-
• Walk 1-3 miles unassisted over ing surfaces, including steep and
a period of 1-2 hours, and par- unpaved paths, hills, riverbanks,
ticipate in 3-4 hours of physical 25-50 stairs without handrails, and Watch our most popular
activities each day, including stairs cobblestones video for this vacation
and cobblestones • Travel by 140-passenger river ship
• Optional activities and walks may and 49-seat coach SCAN ME
be offered in addition to the activ- • Changes in water-level depths may
ity level above require adjustments to your itin-
• Agility and balance are needed for erary, including your Strasbourg
boarding small canal boats and canal cruise
navigating steep, at times slip-
pery stairs Climate
• Not accessible for travelers using • Daytime temperatures range from Open the camera feature on your mobile
38-45°F during cruising season device, and hover the lens over this code
wheelchairs or scooters to scan it. A pop-up notification will take
• Rain, ice, snow, and wind are pos- you directly to the video.
sible during the holiday season
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/rxs2023
11Christmas Markets Along the Rhine
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Basel, Switzerland
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 4 Basel
Day 2 Arrive Basel, Switzerland Day 5 Basel • Embark ship
Day 3 Basel
Day 1 Depart U.S. Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Depart the U.S. today on your flight to Basel, Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Switzerland. rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
the lounge.
Day 2 Arrive Basel, Switzerland •
Embark ship
Day 3 Breisach, Germany • Kaysersberg &
• Destination: Basel
Riquewihr, France
• Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony • Destination: Kaysersberg
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning: Arrive at the Basel airport, where you
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony
are met and transferred to the pier to embark
your river ship. From Basel, located where Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Switzerland, Germany, and France all meet,
Morning: You’ll sail toward Breisach, Germany,
ships can navigate the Rhine all the way to the
set just on the edge of the Black Forest.
North Sea.
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Lunch: A light lunch will be served onboard in
the ship’s dining room. Afternoon: Upon arrival, you’ll head into the
Alsace region, the French side of the Rhine, to
Afternoon: The balance of the day is at
visit Kaysersberg. This was the birthplace of
leisure. Unpack, and get settled into your
Albert Schweitzer, the great humanitarian and
comfortable cabin.
recipient of the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize, who
Later, gather to meet your Program Director is famous for his philosophy of “reverence for
and traveling companions for a ship briefing on life” and his work in Africa. Your tour includes
your upcoming Grand Circle River Cruise. a visit to Dr. Schweitzer’s former home, now a
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
12museum, where his study is preserved exactly mid-morning, your guided tour concludes at
as he last used it in 1959. You’ll also see the the Palais Rohan in the town center, which you
city center, and have time to discover more of will travel to via city tram using your included
Kaysersberg on your own. single-day transit pass. If you like, you may
walk on your own from the Palais to visit the
You’ll also visit the nearby commune of
city’s magnificent cathedral, one of the finest
Riquewihr, a renowned “wine village” known
of Europe’s great Gothic cathedrals. Its lofty
for its Rieslings. After an informative stroll,
single spire dominates the city.
you’ll have free time to explore on your own.
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Dinner: Gather this evening with your fellow
travelers and Program Director for a Captain’s Afternoon: After lunch, journey by motorcoach
Welcome Drink and Dinner onboard the ship. to the spa town of Baden-Baden, nestled in
the tranquil Black Forest. Since Roman times,
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Baden-Baden has been renowned for its
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
thermal baths, with mineral waters thought to
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
have restorative powers. After a walking tour of
the lounge.
Baden-Baden, we’ll return to the ship, arriving
in late afternoon
Day 4 Strasbourg • Baden-Baden
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
• Destination: Strasbourg
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
Activity Note: Christmas markets typically
the lounge.
open one week before, or at the start of Advent
observances in mid- to late-November. Hours
of operation for the holiday markets vary Day 5 Speyer • Home-Hosted
depending on region, and may be limited or Kaffeeklatsch
closed between December 24 and December 26, • Destination: Speyer
as well as on New Year’s Day. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. • Accommodations: M/S River Harmony
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Morning: Discover Strasbourg, a unique
confluence of French and German culture and Morning: Spend the morning at leisure
traditions. Strategically important since ancient as our ship cruises to Speyer, a city whose
times, Strasbourg became a free imperial city in charms—including portions of its medieval
1262, and then was occupied by France in 1681 wall and gates—date back more than
and Germany in 1871. France recovered the city 2,000 years.
in 1919 after World War I. From the comfort of
Lunch: Enjoy lunch in the ship’s dining room.
your glass-covered tour boat, you’ll cruise the
city’s famous canals and see the major sights Afternoon: Shortly after our ship arrives in
(including the Palais de L’Europe, where the Speyer, we’ll depart by coach to visit a local
European Parliament meets) and admire the family for a traditional Kaffeeklatsch. You’ll
city’s remarkable Renaissance architecture. In share coffee, cake, and conversation during this
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
13Exclusive Discovery Series Home-Hosted Visit. Afternoon: Enjoy a leisure afternoon of sailing
Later, consider strolling through the Christmas as your ship heads toward Mainz.
market and browsing its festive stalls.
Or, if you’ve chosen our optional tour, visit
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. Heidelberg’s turreted 600-year-old university,
Germany’s oldest. In keeping with the spirit of
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
the holidays, you’ll also stop at Heidelberg’s
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
lively Christmas market. After the tour, you’ll
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
ride to Mainz to re-board the ship.
the lounge.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Day 6 Speyer • Optional Heidelberg tour Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
• Destination: Speyer rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony the lounge.
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Day 7 Mainz • Optional Rudesheim Dinner
Morning: Enjoy a free morning to explore
• Destination: Mainz
Speyer. On your own, you might take in the
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Historical Museum of the Palatinate, which
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony
has large collections of pre-Roman and Roman
materials and includes a wine museum. Or, Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
consider visiting Speyer’s four-towered
Morning: Enjoy a walking tour of Mainz. The
Imperial Cathedral. Dating to the eleventh
city is best known for its most famous son,
century, it’s one of the greatest Romanesque
Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of movable
buildings in Germany and contains the tombs
type, who was born here in 1397. Gutenberg
of eight emperors. This was also an early center
began his career by creating and selling
of printing as the home of the 15th-century
indulgences—papers that could be purchased
printers John of Speyer and his brother
and used as “coupons” by the faithful to
Wendelin. The ship begins cruising towards
absolve them of some of the time they had
Mainz before lunch onboard.
earned in Purgatory. Gutenberg realized he
Or, perhaps you’ll take our all-day optional could absolve himself of some of his own
tour to discover romantic Heidelberg, a historic monetary debts if he could mass-produce the
university town nestled between wooded hills indulgences. To do this, he created uniformly
at the edge of the Odenwald Forest and crowned sized metal molds for letters that allowed
with the ruins of Heidelberg Castle. Begun in him to create error-free, repeatable text. This
the Gothic style of the 14th century and built was the beginning of the movable type that
up gradually over the next 400 years, the castle transformed the world.
demonstrates the evolution of architectural
You’ll see the Gutenberg Bible and the
style, finally completed in the Baroque period.
printing press, which are housed in the town’s
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. Or, Gutenberg Museum. The museum exhibits one
for those who join the optional tour, enjoy an
included lunch at a local restaurant.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
14of the 47 extant copies of the Latin Gutenberg Afternoon: Embark on a walking tour of
Bible—a 42-page volume with elaborate Gothic Koblenz, the 2,000-year-old city that stands
lettering, dating from the 1450s. at the confluence of the Rhine and Mosel rivers.
Sitting amidst hills populated with castles and
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
fortresses, this strategic location has made the
Afternoon: You have free time in the afternoon city vital to European trade—and explains why
to visit the Christkindlmarkt in Mainz. You’ll it was heavily bombed during World War II.
have ample opportunity to explore the myriad Many of its historic buildings have since been
craft stalls, and to explore the rest of the city as restored and the Altstadt (Old Town) features
you please. distinct architecture like the Liebfrauenkirche
(Church of Our Lady), a 13th-century
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. Gothic basilica with twin towers capped by
onion-shaped spires, and the Basilica St. Kastor
Or, spend a memorable optional excursion to
or Kastorkirche, dedicated to Castor of Karden,
Rudesheim’s renowned Drosselgasse wine
featuring four towers. Across the Rhine you’ll
alley, a narrow street lined with charming
find the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, central to a
taverns serving the area’s famed wines. This
ring of fortifications built to protect the town
optional tour includes dinner, locally produced
and the region.
wine, and live entertainment.
The afternoon is free to explore on your own.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps Dinner: Return to the ship for dinner onboard
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in in the dining room.
the lounge.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
Day 8 Rhine River Valley • Koblenz
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
• Destination: Koblenz the lounge.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony Day 9 Koblenz • Stollen baking
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. demonstration
Morning: Today, the ship cruises along some • Destination: Koblenz
of the most beautiful and inspiring parts of the • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rhine as you sail for Koblenz. • Accommodations: M/S River Harmony
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
You’ll pass the Lorelei, a large rock rising
440 feet above the river. Since ancient Greek Morning: Your morning is at leisure to explore
mythology, there have been legends of sirens, Koblenz and stroll among the stalls of its
women-creatures who lure sailors to their wonderful Christmas market. Savor the smell of
death with sweet songs. Ancient Germanic chestnuts roasting over open fires, and perhaps
legend places one such siren (Lorelei) here, and savor an authentic Bratwurst as you shop for
it is said she enticed sailors to destruction on handmade gifts and enjoy watching artisans at
the reef below the rock. work. Perhaps you’ll visit the Deutsches Eck, or
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
15“Corner of Germany,” where both the Altstadt stained-glass windows, an ornate gold shrine
and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, across the on its elaborate altar, and the intricate detail
Rhine, are visible. common to 14th-century Gothic churches.
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. Lunch: Return to the ship for lunch onboard in
the dining room.
Afternoon: Enjoy an afternoon of sailing as
you cruise to Cologne. En route, perhaps you’ll Afternoon: Enjoy some time on your own
participate in an Exclusive Discovery Series in Cologne. Perhaps you’ll spend time at
baking demonstration where you’ll learn how the Romano-Germanic Museum, with its
to make Stollen, a traditional German bread beautifully restored Roman mosaics and
made with fruit and nuts and topped with reconstructed tomb. The museum is the home
powdered sugar. of the largest collection of Roman glass vessels
in the world and also holds a significant
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
collection of Roman and early medieval jewelry.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the You could also visit Cologne’s Christmas
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps market, and browse its wide assortment of
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in Christmas creations.
the lounge.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Day 10 Cologne Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
• Destination: Cologne
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
the lounge.
• Accommodations: M/S River Harmony
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room. Day 11 Nijmegen, the Netherlands •
Morning: Disembark for a guided walking tour
Operation Market Garden discussion •
of Cologne’s Old City. A Roman settlement
Captain’s Farewell Dinner • Amsterdam
called Colonia Agrippina after AD 50, Cologne • Destination: Amsterdam
came under Frankish control in the fifth • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
century. You can still see the ruins of Roman • Accommodations: M/S River Harmony
temples scattered through the city, and the
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
Roman Tower near the cathedral was once part
of the medieval town walls. During the 15th Morning: Arrive in Nijmegen, a Dutch city
century, the city flourished as a member of the built on seven hills overlooking the Waal River
Hanseatic League. just west of its confluence with the Rhine.
You’ll see the arching bridge that spans the
Your tour ends in front of the city’s magnificent
Waal, which was the site of an important battle
Gothic cathedral (Dom), which you may visit
during World War II that caused devastating
on your own. A UNESCO World Heritage Site,
damage to the city. As a result, Nijmegen, one
the cathedral largely escaped the World War
of the oldest towns in Holland, was almost
II damage that ravaged the city and the rest
completely rebuilt. The town center, however,
of Germany. It’s the largest Gothic cathedral
was remarkably unscathed by shelling, and
in northern Europe, boasting beautiful
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16provides a striking contrast to the newer Dinner: Tonight, gather with your fellow
architecture that surrounds it. Enjoy a guided travelers for a Captain’s Farewell Reception
walk throughout the city. and Dinner.
Return to your ship for an Exclusive Discovery Evening: Arrive tonight in Amsterdam, where
Series conversation about Operation Market you will dock for the night.
Garden, and learn about Nijmegen’s crucial role
in WWII. Day 12 Return to U.S.
Lunch: Savor lunch onboard in the dining room. • Included Meals: Breakfast
Afternoon: Enjoy an afternoon of sailing and Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
take in the passing landscapes as you cruise to
Morning: Transfer to the airport for your
Amsterdam.
return home, or begin your optional extension
in Brussels & Bruges, Belgium.
END YOUR TRIP WITH AN OPTIONAL POST-TRIP EXTENSION
3 nights in Brussels & Bruges, Belgium
Day 1 Amsterdam, the Netherlands • Delft Day 3 Bruges
• Brussels, Belgium
Day 4 Return to U.S.
Day 2 Brussels
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
17OPTIONAL TOURS
During your trip you will be able to book optional tours directly with us. You will be asked to confirm
the payment for these tours by filling out a payment form. Optional tours can only be purchased with
a credit or debit card. We accept MasterCard and Visa on all trips, and Discover on all trips except river
cruises in France. We also accept Visa and MasterCard debit cards, but it must be a debit card that
allows you to sign for purchases.
In order to correctly process these charges, there can be a delay of 2-3 months from the date of your
return for the charges to be posted to your account. Therefore we ask that you use a card that will not
expire in the 2-3 months following your return.
Please note: Optional tour prices are listed in U.S. dollar estimates determined at the time of publication and
are subject to change. Optional tours may vary.
Heidelberg
(Day 6 $120 per person)
Discover Heidelberg, a historic university town
nestled between wooded hills at the edge of the
Odenwald Forest and crowned with the ruins
of Heidelberg Castle. Begun in the Gothic style
of the 14th century and built up gradually over
the next 400 years, the castle demonstrates
the evolution of architectural style, finally
completed in the Baroque period. After lunch,
tour Heidelberg’s turreted 600-year-old
university, Germany’s oldest. In keeping with
the spirit of the holidays, we’ll also stop at
Heidelberg’s lively Christmas market.
Rudesheim Dinner
(Day 7 $90 per person)
Spend a memorable evening at Rudesheim’s
renowned Drosselgasse wine alley, a narrow
street lined with charming taverns serving
the area’s famous wines. This tour includes an
informational stroll, followed by free time to
explore on your own. Then you’ll go on to enjoy
dinner, which will feature locally produced
wine and live entertainment.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18PRE-TRIP
Basel, Switzerland
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Dedicated services of a local
» 3 breakfasts Program Director
» Included tour with personal headsets: Basel » Gratuities for local guides and
motorcoach drivers
» Basel tram day pass
» All transfers
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Join us on this extension to discover Basel, Switzerland’s third-largest city and a center of history and
culture. With a heritage than spans more than 2,000 years and a fortunate geographic location, Basel offers a
cosmopolitan blend of Swiss, German, and French influences.
Day 1 Depart U.S. Dinner: On your own. Your Program Director
will have suggestions for dining among the
Depart the U.S. today on your flight to Basel, many fine restaurants in the city.
Switzerland.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
Day 2 Arrive Basel, Switzerland
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
• Destination: Basel
the lounge.
• Accommodations: Hotel Pullman Basel
Europe or similar
Day 3 Basel
Morning: When you arrive in Switzerland, you
• Destination: Basel
are met at the airport and transferred to your
• Included Meals: Breakfast
hotel in Basel. In the late afternoon, you’ll be
• Accommodations: Hotel Pullman Basel
escorted on a walk in the vicinity around your
Europe or similar
hotel, followed by time to explore on your own.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations. Morning: You have the day to relax or
explore Basel on your own. With more than 30
Afternoon: Join your Program Director for a
museums, the city is a well-known center of art
Welcome Drink and a briefing on what to expect
and culture. Dating to 1662, the Museum of Fine
during your time in Basel.
Arts is considered the oldest public art museum
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
19in Europe. Inside, you can view Old Masters Morning: Explore Basel on your own today.
such as Hans Holbein, along with modern Stroll across a bridge or ride a ferry across the
masters, such as Jasper Johns. Rhine, and explore the city’s two sides: historic
Grossbasel, where many cultural attractions are
Lunch: On your own. Try some local cuisine,
clustered, and more modern Kleinbasel.
such as basler mehlsuppe—a simple soup
requiring few ingredients, usually topped Or, join our optional tour to Bern, Switzerland’s
with cheese. capital.
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries. Lunch: On your own—ask your Program
Perhaps you will visit the Historical Museum, Director for local restaurant recommendations.
housed in 14th-century church, which contains
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
a collection relating to the history of culture
your Program Director for recommendations.
in Central Europe. Its most notable piece is the
Lallenkonig (Babbling King), a crowned head Dinner: On your own—you can seek out
with moveable tongue and eyes. another of Basel’s many excellent restaurants
or ask your Program Director for local
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
restaurant recommendations.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Program Director for recommendations.
Day 4 Basel Day 5 Basel • Embark ship
• Included Meals: Breakfast
• Destination: Basel
• Included Meals: Breakfast Breakfast: At the hotel.
• Accommodations: Hotel Pullman Basel
Morning: Transfer to the pier to embark your
Europe or similar
river ship. Travelers arriving for the main trip
Breakfast: At the hotel. will join you and you will continue from Day 2
of the main itinerary.
OPTIONAL TOUR
Bern in 1191 by Duke Berchtold of Zahringen. The
(Day 4 $115 per person) tour brings you to Bern’s 16th-century clock
Travel about an hour and a half by bus, then tower, after which you’ll have free time to
take a guided walking tour, beginning at get lunch on your own. Then continue on to
the city’s bear pit. The bear is the symbol of Emmental to see how Swiss cheese is made
Bern, and the live animals housed here are as before returning to Basel.
well-treated as some of the city’s most valued
residents. Stroll through the historic center of
this city on the Aare River, which was founded
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
20POST-TRIP
Brussels & Bruges, Belgium
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 3 nights » Dedicated services of a local
» 3 breakfasts Program Director
» Included tours with personal headsets: Delft » Gratuities for local guides and
• Brussels • Bruges motorcoach drivers
» All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Join us on this extension to experience the many delights of Brussels, Belgium. Once a sleepy village that grew
up around a chapel on an island in the Senne River, Brussels is now a thriving city and the headquarters
of NATO and the European Union. An included city tour, visits to porcelain and chocolate workshops, and
free time to explore will give you a unique chance to experience this timeless capital city. And a day trip to
neighboring Bruges allows you to explore that wonderfully preserved medieval seaport city.
Day 1 Amsterdam, the Netherlands • Delft Dinner: On your own, and your Program
• Brussels, Belgium Director will be happy to offer dining
suggestions.
• Destination: Brussels
• Accommodations: Radisson Blue Royal Hotel Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Brussels or similar rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Morning: Disembark and begin your Program Director for recommendations.
motorcoach transfer to Brussels, Belgium’s
capital. En route, visit a porcelain factory in Day 2 Brussels
Delft, the Netherlands, known for its blue • Destination: Brussels
pottery, called Delftware. After the Delft
• Included Meals: Breakfast
factory visit, you’ll have free time to explore on
• Accommodations: Radisson Blue Royal Hotel
your own.
Brussels or similar
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Breakfast: At the hotel.
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Morning: Discover Brussels—known for
Afternoon: You’ll have some more free time producing delicious chocolate—on an included
in Delft before we gather back at our bus to city tour, then delve into the Belgian capital’s
continue our journey to Brussels, arriving at our sweeter side on a special excursion.
hotel late this afternoon.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
21First, you’ll set off on a tour of this lovely Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
old city. See the buildings of the European Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Union and the Atomium, an enormous steel
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
construction representing an iron atom with
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
nine spheres connected by corridors. Pass
Program Director for recommendations.
by the impressive Cinquantenaire Arch, the
Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Pagoda, and the
Royal Park. Everywhere, you’ll see the beautiful Day 3 Bruges
architecture of the city and the art nouveau • Destination: Bruges
style represented by the famous architect • Included Meals: Breakfast
Victor Horta. Your tour ends in Brussels’ Grand
• Accommodations: Radisson Blue Royal Hotel
Place, the famed market square and heart of
Brussels or similar
medieval Brussels. The square is dominated by
the magnificent 15th-century Town Hall, with Breakfast: At the hotel.
its hundreds of little statues, and ringed with
Morning: Set off in a private motorcoach
17th-century buildings and guild houses with
for Bruges, one of Western Europe’s great
their golden inlays.
medieval cities. Originally a ninth-century
Then, visit a family-run chocolate factory fortress built to protect the Flemish coast from
to see fine Belgian chocolate being created. marauding Vikings, Bruges today retains its
Chocolate arrived here in the 1870s, following reputation as one of the best-preserved Old
Belgium’s colonization of the Congo and World cities on the continent. Its museums hold
its cocoa plantations. Traditional Belgian some of the oldest and finest collections you
chocolates are filled with creams, liqueurs, will find anywhere, and its narrow, winding
nuts, or a special dark chocolate called ganache. streets meander through the city beside a
Today the finest chocolates, characterized by centuries-old canal system. You’ll discover the
a smooth, velvet quality and a rich flavor, are intricacy and beauty of this system on a guided
produced in Brussels. At the factory, you’ll see walking tour, led by your Program Director.
a chocolate-making demonstration and learn
Then enjoy another classic Belgian
about the painstaking process from cocoa bean
discovery—lace—as you visit a local lace shop.
to delicious chocolate confection.
Lace-making has a long history but came into
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program its own in the 15th century. Lace was intended
Director for local restaurant recommendations. to replace embroidery. Unlike embroidered
clothing, lace pieces could be changed as
Afternoon: Free to explore on your own. You fashion changed and attached decoratively to
may want to visit the Royal Museum of Ancient different articles of clothing. Belgium soon
and Modern Art, which houses a special gained a peerless reputation for fine lacework.
section on the well-known Belgian surrealist, In the 17th century, Belgian lace was prized
Magritte. Or perhaps you’ll visit the Bruparck, throughout Europe. As you’ll find on today’s
an amusement park featuring (among other included tour, lace-making endures as a
things) “Mini-Europe,” a permanent outdoor “cottage industry,” employing about 1,000
exhibit of small-scale, precision-made workers, most between the ages of 50 and 90,
replicas of Europe’s most famous architectural and there are numerous family-run businesses
achievements.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22throughout the city. You’ll visit a lace store that
showcases beautiful antique lacework as well as
intricate tapestries.
Lunch: On your own. Today you may choose to
try moules-frites—local mussels served with
Belgium’s beloved fries.
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries. Upon
our return to Brussels, enjoy a Farewell Drink
with your fellow travelers.
Dinner: On your own—ask your Program
Director for local restaurant recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps you’ll
seek out some of Belgium’s famous sweets for
an after dinner treat, such as waffles topped
with ice cream.
Day 4 Return to U.S.
• Included Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Transfer to the airport for your
flight home.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23YOUR RHINE, MOSEL, MAIN, AND DANUBE RIVER SHIPS
Sail aboard our privately owned 140- to 162-passenger vessels
Grand Circle Cruise Line’s Rhine, Mosel, Main, and Danube ships were designed specifically
to create an unforgettable European river cruise experience for American travelers. Explore
storybook landscapes with up to four groups of no more than 38-45 travelers, each with one of
our dedicated, local Grand Circle Program Directors, and enjoy the attentive onboard service of
our top-notch English-speaking ship crew.
SHIPBOARD FEATURES
• Dining room with single, open seating: • Sun Deck: Sit outside and enjoy the view
Enjoy regionally-inspired cuisine in your as your ship glides past the European
ship’s dining room. countryside.
• Bar & lounge: Relax with friends • English-speaking crew: Our staff is
old and new. dedicated to your comfort, and all shipboard
announcements are made in English.
• Complimentary beverages: Enjoy house
beer and house wine—as well as soft • Smoking/non-smoking: Smoking is not
drinks—at any time of day while onboard. permitted indoors, but is permitted on
the Sun Deck.
• Complimentary wireless Internet access:
Connect online in cabins and common areas. • Shipboard security: State-of-the-art
Please note: Wireless Internet access may shipboard radar ensures safe navigation
be limited at certain points throughout your at night and in low visibility; safe docking
River Cruise. space; onboard security staff; state-of-
the-art fire safety system; and secured
entryway doors.
24M/S RIVER HARMONY
SUN DECK
SERENADE DECK
SONATA DECK CANTATA DECK
PRELUDE DECK
R E
RESTAURANT BAR LOUNGE
SHOP
SERENADE DECK
E FITNESS
MASSAGE
SAUNA/
WHIRL–
POOL
SONATA DECK CANTATA DECK
PRELUDE DECK
Registry: Malta International crew: 34
Width: 38 ft. Decks: 4
Length: 366 ft. Number of cabins: 70—all outside
Passenger capacity: 140 Elevator: Yes (no elevator access to
Prelude Deck)
M/S RIVER ARIA & M/S RIVER ADAGIO
681'(&.
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Registry: Malta Decks: 4
Width: 38 ft. Number of cabins: 82—all
outside
Length: 418 ft.
Elevator: Yes (no elevator
Passenger capacity: 162
access to Prelude Deck)
International crew: 38
25TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Your Passport
• Must be in good condition
• Must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S.
• Must have the required number of blank pages (details below)
• The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and
Endorsements” are not acceptable
Need to Renew Your Passport?
Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their
website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing
your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS
International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport.
Recommended Blank Pages
Please confirm that your passport has enough blank pages for this vacation.
• Main trip only: You will need 2 blank passport pages.
• Pre- and/or post-trip extension: No additional blank pages are needed for any of the
extensions.
No Visas Required
Travelers with a U.S. passport do not need any visas for this vacation, including the optional trip
extensions.
Traveling Without a U.S. Passport?
If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your
responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about visa
requirements. We recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in
Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org.
Traveling With a Minor?
Some governments may require certain documentation for minors to enter and depart the
country or to obtain a visa (if applicable). For further detail on the required documentation, please
contact your local embassy or consulate.
26Emergency Photocopies of Key Documents
We recommend you carry color photocopies of key documents including the photo page of your
passport plus any applicable visas, air itinerary, credit cards (front and back), and an alternative
form of ID. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for
your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals.
If you plan to email this information to yourself, please keep in mind that email is not always
secure; consider using password protection or encryption. Also email is not always available
worldwide. As an alternative, you could load these documents onto a flash drive instead, which
can do double-duty as a place to backup photos during your trip.
Overseas Taxes & Fees
This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you
are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can
be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with
your Final Documents.
27RIGORS, VACCINES & GENERAL HEALTH
Keep Your Abilities in Mind
Please review the information below prior to departing on this vacation. We reserve the right for
our Program Directors to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home if their
limitations are impacting the group’s experience.
GROUP SIZE
• This trip has a group size of 38-45 travelers with a local Program Director exclusive to
Grand Circle
PACING
• 11 days, with 10 nights aboard a river ship
• Return flights often require departing in early morning hours
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Walk 1-3 miles unassisted over a period of 1-2 hours, and participate in 3-4 hours of
physical activities each day, including stairs and cobblestones
• Optional activities and walks may be offered in addition to the activity level above
• Agility and balance are needed for boarding small canal boats and navigating steep, at times
slippery stairs
• Not accessible for travelers using wheelchairs or scooters
• Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other mobility aids must travel with a companion who
can assist them throughout the trip
• We reserve the right for Program Directors to restrict participation, or in some
circumstances send travelers home, if their limitations impact the group’s experience
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
• Diverse terrain and uneven walking surfaces, including steep and unpaved paths, hills,
riverbanks, 25-50 stairs without handrails, and cobblestones
• Travel by 140-passenger river ship and 49-seat coach
• Changes in water-level depths may require adjustments to your itinerary, including your
Strasbourg canal cruise
CLIMATE
• Daytime temperatures range from 38-45°F during cruising season
28• Rain, ice, snow, and wind are possible during the holiday season
Health Check
Feeling healthy and confident of your mobility is essential to fully enjoy your trip abroad. If
you have ongoing medical conditions or concerns about your health, we highly recommend
that you schedule a checkup with your personal physician at least six weeks in advance of your
departure date.
• Discuss with your doctor any aspects of your itinerary that may affect your health and be
guided by his or her advice. (You can use the “Keep Your Abilities in Mind” on the previous
page as a guideline to discuss with him or her.)
• You may want to have a dental exam before your trip. A loose filling or developing cavity
would be difficult to remedy while you are traveling.
• If you have a condition that requires special equipment or treatment, you must bring and be
responsible for all necessary items related to your condition.
Vaccine Required
COVID-19
Grand Circle Cruise Line requires that all travelers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and
are able provide proof of their vaccination upon arrival at their destination. We consider “fully
vaccinated” to be when all required primary doses have been received, as per CDC guidelines.
GCCL does not require a Booster shot; however, if a country on your itinerary requires one, you
must adhere to their guidelines.
Traveling with Medications
• Pack medications in your carry-on bag to avoid loss and to have them handy.
• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers for a quicker security screen at the
airport and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a
brand name to be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications.
We recommend checking with the State Department for medication restrictions by
country: travel.state.gov (Select “Find International Travel Information” then select “Country
Information”; if you don’t see any medications specifically mentioned under the “Your Health
Abroad” section, then you can presume major U.S. brands should be OK).
Staying Healthy on Your Trip
Jet Lag Tips
29You can also read
