Sphere Within A Sphere

QuickTime Video of Gold Ball or link to the video on Facebook

In the Courtyard of the Pinecone on the grounds of the Vatican Museum, you will come across a large gold sphere. This is called “Sphere Within Sphere” (Sfere Con Sfera) and it was created in 1990 by Italian sculptor Arnoldo Pomodoro. What it is meant to signify is open to interpretation – I’ve heard that the inner sphere is supposed to reflect Earth and the outer sphere reflects modern day society (also saw reports that it was supposed to signify today’s Christianity). Apparently, Pomodoro has made quite a few of these bronze spheres  – they can be found at the UN in NYC, at the University of California in Berkeley, at Trinity College in Dublin as well as in Spain and D.C.

The bronze sculpture rotates periodically and it acts as a magnet to the many tourists who were walking from one wing of the Vatican Museum to the other on the day of our visit.

You can view the sphere with any general admission ticket to the Vatican or during a guided tour (with a group or private). Regardless of how you choose to explore the vast Vatican Museums (on your own or with a guide) its highly advisable to book your tickets in advance – or be ready for LONG lines! I can assist you with these reservations (see below for contact info).

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Want to visit the Vatican Museums and/or other parts of Europe? Just fill out a Travel Request Form or send me an email. I am a travel agent who specializes in travel to Europe. Check out my main website: GoYourOwnWayTravel.com for more info!

The Colosseum in Rome

It is highly advised to pre-plan your visits to the three most popular ancient sights in Rome – the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill – or expect to wait in long, long lines.

There are a couple ways to avoid these lines:

- Take a tour. While guided tours are not everyone’s cup of tea, it is recommended in order to be able to “skip the lines” – especially at the Colosseum. I have a source for small group tours (max 25 pax per guide) which depart twice daily (once in the morning and once in the afternoon). The tour includes a headset so you can hear the guide without having to be in the front of the group (great for those who like to snap photos along the way). The tour is 3 hours and includes about 90 minutes at the Colosseum, followed by about 90 minutes in the Forum and the Palatine Hill (for those who like to wander around on their own after the Colosseum can do so – just return your headset to the guide once you are inside the Forum/Hill). Just email me for more information and to make a reservation!

- Private Tour – if following a group, even a small group, doesn’t sound appealing but you want the information that a guide can provide, a private tour is a good way to go – especially for those traveling with 4 or more people anyway. Just email me for more information!

- If you want to explore on your own, it is highly recommended to buy your tickets in advance or at the entrance to the Palatine Hill/Forum instead of waiting in the always-long-lines at the Colosseum. One ticket covers all three areas. Once you buy it, you can “skip the line” at the Colosseum by entering in the prepurchased ticket line. There are also a couple different passes you can pre-purchase which will also allow you to skip the long lines. Just email me for more info!

What to expect at the sights?

- Stairs – lots of them. The sights are not very wheelchair-friendly although there are a couple elevators at the Colosseum.

- Crowds at the Colosseum – Almost every visitor to Rome wants to see the Colosseum so you can expect crowds. The Forum and the Palatine Hill are more spread out so its much quieter and more peaceful.

- Ruins – lots of them! There’s not much left at the Forum or Palatine Hill – so don’t expect full buildings or palaces – they just aren’t there anymore! The Colosseum was also half destroyed in an earthquake which gives it that fragment look that has made it famous.

- Water Fountains – Buy a bottle of water (or bring your own) and fill it up as you go. Public water fountains with drinkable (and cold!) water are found throughout Rome, including these Ancient Sights. Great way to get refreshed on a hot day!

For more information about visiting Rome or to receive assistance with your travel plans (accommodations, transportation, tours and more), please just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form. I am a travel agent who specializes in Europe.

Happy Travels!

The Amacello sails through Passau

Learn about wine from true industry experts while sailing along the scenic European rivers on AmaWaterways special themed itineraries. Wine experts will share their knowledge with you while you partake in wine tastings and vineyard visits, and indulge in fine dining.

One of the special wine-themed itinerary highlights is the Vineyards of the Rhine and Mosel. Depart the U.S. on November 9th, 2012 and head to Paris for a few nights of sightseeing before your cruise. On November 13th, you will board a high-speed train to Metz where a tour of Luxembourg city and a panoramic drive passing the American Cemetary and Memorial (General Patton’s resting place) is included. Meet fellow passengers onboard the Amadante ship this evening where a Wine Toast is followed by dinner.

Spend the next week sailing along the Rhine and Mosel rivers. Learn about the areas you are passing through by attending onboard lectures and workshops. Visit medieval towns and castles, meet the vineyard owners, and, of course, taste the wines of the region.

Cruise ends November 20th in Amsterdam. Rates start at just $1999 per person for the cruise (7-nights). Add the 3 nights in Paris for $780 per person. This sailing will feature special guest Christopher Silva, CEO of St. Francis Winery and Vineyards, as well as AmaWaterways Executive V.P. Kristin Karst.

Restaurant onboard the Amacello

Cruise also includes:

• Fine dining plus complimentary wine tastings, lectures & wine pairings
• Complimentary wine, beer & soft drinks with dinner
• Luxurious accommodations on the award-winning AMAWATERWAYS fleet
• Spacious staterooms & suites from 170-255 sq. ft. French balconies in over 80 percent of staterooms
• Complimentary Hollywood movies, Internet in staterooms & Wi-Fi
• Tours included in all ports |
• Entertainment provided every evening
• Services of a professional cruise manager

Book now to get up to $200 in stateroom credit! All rates are in U.S. dollars and are based on double occupancy in a Cat. E. Port charges of $133 p.p. and airfare are additional

For more information, please email leila@worldclasstvl.com or fill out a Travel Request Form. Other itineraries available. Book today to get the best rates!

The bathroom in the Suites

The Amadante is quite a new ship – her maiden voyage was only in June 2008. Because of this, she has some of the most up-to-date features including:

• Free bicycles-  Each ship has plenty of bicycles onboard which can be used by passengers, free of charge, to explore the small towns. Most regions offer well-maintained bicycle paths along the river.
• Wellness Area – Located in the aft area of the Violin Deck, this generously designed space includes a glassed-in fitness room, massage and beauty salon; the aft lounge with modern wicker furniture and French doors to enjoy the fresh river air.
• Elevator – Each ship has an elevator, which very few river cruise ships feature. The elevator reaches four different levels: the Restaurant level (1), the Staterooms on the Cello Deck (2), the Lobby and Panorama Lounge (3) and the Staterooms on the Violin Deck (4).
• Infotainment System – Every stateroom is equipped with monitor, keyboard with Internet access, English language TV stations, a large movie selection and numerous music programs. Our satellite telephone system allows you to call home for a nominal fee.
• Stateroom Amenities – Inside your exquisitely decorated stateroom, you’ll find all the amenities of a fine hotel with white-on-white plush bedding, a cozy sitting area, Infotainment System, hair dryer, safe, terry bathrobes, individually controlled air-conditioning and ample closet space. All staterooms and Jr. Suites are outside; over 82% feature large French balconies, which are a true delight when relaxing in your stateroom.
• Junior Suites – Although rarely found on European river cruise ships, Junior Suites aboard our ships are extra spacious at 255 square feet. They feature a comfortable sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, floor-to-ceiling windows with French balconies and luxurious, extra spacious bathrooms with bathtubs and showers. The suites sell quickly, so early reservations are recommended.

Standard Stateroom

St Mary's Basilica, Krakow

Sightseeing in Krakow and Warsaw, Poland

I just have to say that I love Poland. I really didn’t know what to expect when I first went a couple years ago. What I found was a beautiful country, friendly people, good food (including easily accessible vegetarian dishes), and historic sights. And its cheap!

Here are some sightseeing options available in the two major cities – Krakow and Warsaw.

For Krakow:

Krakow Sightseeing Tour
Krakow is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe and the old city of Krakow is on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. This tour will introduce you to the city’s unique charm created by centuries of history and cultural wealth. With its very special climate of culture and arts, we gain an insight into the history of Poland and Europe. Some of the highlights on this tour are the Barbican, Florian Gate, the Old Market Square, the former Jewish District and the Wawel Hill Royal Castle, the Cathedral and St Mary’s Basilica where you will be able to see the unique altar curved in wood in the 15th Century. At the end of this tour you will agree that Krakow is the place you will keep coming back to, each time to discover new objects of startling beauty.
Includes: English speaking guide, transportation by coach, entrance fees to Wawel Royal Castle or Old Synagogue, Wawel Cathedral, St.Mary’s Basilica, photo stops on the Wawel Hill and The Old Town.
Daily morning departures. Duration: 3.5 hours.
Between $50-75 per person

Auschwitz-Birkenau
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum was established in 1947 by the Polish Government on the site of the largest Nazi concentration camp, which was set up in 1940 for prisoners from Poland. From 1942 it became one of the biggest extermination camps for the European Jews. There is an exhibition entitled ‘Man Did This To Man’ in the huts once used to house inmates. In recognition of its historical significance as a memorial to all who suffered and died there, the Museum was entered on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Includes: Visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau camp, assistance of an English speaking guide-escort, documentary film in English, services of the museum guide and transportation by coach.
Daily morning departures. Duration: 5.5 hours.
Between $50-75 per person

Dunajec River Gorge and National Park
Take advantage of this unique experience in Europe and enjoy a pleasant wooden punt trip through the breath taking Dunajec River Gorge in the Pieniny Mountains. Marvel at the beauty of the surrounding area as you pass by. You will have the chance to see the castle ruins at Niedzica, which were originally built between the 13th and 14th century (closed on Mondays) as well as a stop at Debno, a 15th century wooden Gothic country church. Here you can view the exquisite original polychromatic wall decoration inside, a relic of unique beauty. The church is also an UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. At the end of the tour you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Includes: Transportation, services of a local guide, wooden punt trip and entrance fee to castle Niedzica and the National Park. Hotel Pick Up.
Daily morning departures. Duration: 7.5 hours.
Between $250-300 per person

Inside the Salt Mine - everything is salt!

Wieliczka Salt Mine
This is one of the oldest salt mines in Europe. Visitors may take a walk of 3 kilometres through 3 levels in the Salt Mine down to 136 metres below ground level (400 steps), through chambers and chapels hewn out in the salt rock; you will admire the statues of saints sculpted in salt and the saline lakes, in which diseases are treated.
Includes: Assistance of an English speaking guide, entrance and guided tour of the mine, short break of 10 min for shopping inside the mine, transportation by coach, lift up from the mine back to ground level.
Daily morning departures. Duration: 3 hours.
Between $50-75 per person

Three Faces of Krakow
This sightseeing will introduce you to the major sights of the three sides of Krakow: Nowa Huta, Former Jewish District of Kazimierz and the Old city of Krakow.
On this tour you will be able to experience the three faces of Krakow: Nowa Huta, the former Jewish District of Kazimierz and the Old City of Krakow. You will start at the Central Square and then drive to Mogila, a former village with a Monastery, which is a good example of sacral architecture. You will also visit the Entrance Gate to Mittal Steelworks. Driving along the Steelworks you will be able to see Rose Avenue, Folk Theatre and ARKA-Church. You will then arrive into the district of Nowa Huta with its specific architecture from communism days as well as a Cistercian Monastery and its church in Bienczyce style. Finally you will visit the Old City Town where you will enjoy the Great Market Square and St. Mary’s Basilica.
Includes: English speaking guide, transportation by bus, entrance fees to Synagogue and St Mary’s Basilica.
Departs Mon/Wed/Sun in the morning. Duration: 3.5 hours
Between $50-75 per person

Outside church where Chopin's heart is located in Warsaw

For Warsaw:

Morning Sightseeing of Warsaw
Enjoy this city tour which includes all the ‘must see’ monuments and sights of Warsaw: Lazienki Park, Theatre Square with Grand Opera and former Town Hall Buildings as well as Belvedere Palace, the Ghetto Memorial. You will also drive through the most famous and elegant avenues in Warsaw and see Nowy Swiat and Krakowskie Przedmiescie avenues, the Presidential Palace, University of Warsaw, Holy Cross Church with Chopin’s heart, Copernicus Statue. During previous centuries monarchs constructed the beautiful palaces you can admire today around you. Later you will also go to the Old town to see St. John’s Cathedral with its magnificent Gothic interiors, St. Ann’s Church and the Castle Square with the Column of King Sigismund III Vasa. You will also see the Old Town Market Square and the City Walls.
Includes: Transportation by coach and services of a local guide. During the period 01/June to 15/Sep, the tour also includes a live organ music concert at St John Cathedral everyday of the week except Sundays.
Daily morning departures. Duration: 4 hours
Between $40-50 per person

Gdansk Amber City by Train
The three and a half hour express train ride takes you to the three main cities of the Gdansk Bay. Gdansk is a tourist centre with many interesting sights in both the New and Old Towns. Highlights of this tour include town houses, gates, churches, the Town Hall, the Artus Court and the Fountain of Neptune in front of it. Enjoy an organ music concert in the famous Oliwa Cathedral and a nice walk along the picturesque pier in the town of Sopot – the best place to buy amber souvenirs.
Includes: English speaking guide, 2nd class return train ticket, transportation in Gdansk, Gdynia and Sopot, entrances to St.Mary’s Church and Artus Court in Gdansk, Oliwa Cathedral in Sopot.
Departs daily in early morning (by 7am). Duration: 14 hours.
Between $350-400 per person

For more information on these options or to receive assistance with your own travel plans to Poland (and beyond!), please just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form. I respond to all requests asap!

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Italy has always been a top destination for US travelers. Its cities are full of famous art and historical sights, and are often the main focus of a trip to Italy. In the past decade or so, culinary vacations have become increasingly popular. Travelers these days want a more in-depth immersion into the Italian culture – and what better way to get this immersion then to enjoy its food and wine!

For example, why not spend some time in the relaxing Tuscan countryside after a stay in bustling Rome? This is just one of the options available.

Five Day Tuscan Cuisine and the Cinque Terre Seaside

Day 1: Start off in Pisa where you will be met by a local guide. Have a light lunch and then visit the famous Leaning Tour and the Baptistery. This afternoon, visit a 17th century farmhouse which produces its own organic olive oil. Learn the secrets and sample some oils (and wine!).

Overnight at a 19th century country house that is surrounded by beautiful countryside. The Rural Country House features five rooms with modern conveniences (such as a/c, minibar, and safe). There is also a swimming pool, an orchard and a large olive grove on property.

Day 2: Enjoy a visit to the seaside town of Viareggio. Do some shopping or take a break at the sandy beach. This afternoon, visit Pietrasanta, a small Roman town. It is world renowned for its local sculputors who work with marble and bronze.

This evening, enjoy your first cooking class featuring a Tuscan seasonal specialities menu. The cooking lass is with a small group and are led by an experienced chef. Once you finish making dinner, enjoy it along with wines that are carefully selected to complement your meal.

Day 3: Morning at leisure.

In the afternoon, visit the city of Lucca – with its 100 churches and preserved ramparts. Afterwards, head to a wine factory which produces organic and biodynamic wines and olive oil. A tour of the vineyards and tastings are included.

This evening, you will enjoy tasting a variety of pizza and foccaccia.

Day 4: Take a day-trip to Liguria and the Cinque Terre region. See the “five towns” by water and by hiking from one to the other. They are all extremely picturesque with magnificent seascapes.

This evening, a seafood dinner is included (with views of the sea!)

Day 5: This morning, visit Camaiore which is located in the foothills of the Apual Alps. Learn the secrets of handmade chocolate!

This trip includes:

Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Local Travel Assistance and some Meals.

Rates start at $2170 per person (based on double occupancy). Have four people interested? Then the cost starts at $1985 per person.

This itinerary is completely customizable based on your own interests and preferences. For more information, please email me or fill out a Travel Request Form.

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Cooking Classes and Wine Tastings in Paris, France

One of the most popular new experiences in Paris is to participate in a guided wine tasting and/or cooking class. Many classes are available for the novice or the expert.

The options below are available year round and are a great way to enhance your vacation in Paris. At least you get a break for a few hours from the museums! For more information, please email me or fill out a Travel Request Form.

Wine Tastings:

Wine Museum Entrance – Visit the Wine Museum, located in one of Paris’ oldest limestone quarries and discovery the history and heritage of wine in France – a perfect visit for any wine lover! Near the Eiffel Tower, the Wine Museum is located in one of Paris’ oldest limestone quarries. Many artefacts and tools from another age are brought to life by wax figures in cellars from the XV century. With the aid of an audio guide you will discover and learn about various art objects, which have been used for the consummation of the wine: glasses, jugs, bottles and potteries etc. You will even be able to finish your visit with a glass of wine! The Paris Wine Museum testifies the richness of the French viticulture heritage. A perfect visit for any wine lover or connoisseur! Self-guided.
Includes: Entrance to the Museum including audio-guide and a glass of wine at the end of the visit. Available Tuesday – Sunday from 10am-5pm. Less than $25 per person.

A Wine Introduction – Taste a small variety of French wines and learn about basic wine techniques on this introductory wine course. This quick introductory wine tasting lesson in Paris will teach you all the basics about French wine! The perfect tasting for those with a busy schedule! Held in a cellar in the heart of Paris, close to the Louvre, this wine tasting is just a short walk from the metro station Louvre Rivoli. This cellar has a lot of personality and the decor has been recently restored. If you don’t know much about wine but would like to learn then sign up for this introductory tasting and a French sommelier from O chateau supplier will introduce you to the pleasures of wine! You’ll learn about basic wine techniques for tasting and appreciation as well as France’s major wine regions. Sante!!!
Includes: White and red wine tastings of three different wines with a French sommelier. Mon/Wed/Fri at 3pm. Duration: 1 hour.  Less than $50 per person.

A Cheese and Wine Tasting - Taste a wonderful variety of French wine and cheese: from Alsace to Bordeaux, from Burgundy to the Rhone Valley … and leave as a French wine expert! How about indulging in two of Frances’ best delicacies: Wine and Cheese. Beginning with a flute of Champagne, you will be expertly guided through a wonderful tasting experience by our French sommelier. This little gem is the best of Paris attractions. Our new twist on a Tasting Lunch will allow you to learn first hand about food and wine pairing as well as wine tasting techniques. You’ll leave the tasting with a better understanding of Frances’ major wine regions and with a greater appreciation for French wine, including its Champagne! A day spent walking around Paris can sure create an appetite, but we’ll make sure you won’t be hungry at the end of this tasting! Sante et bon appetit!
Includes: White and red wine and cheese tasting with a French sommelier.
Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat at noon. Duration: 1.5 hours. Between $100-125 per person

A Wine Tour de France – Taste a wonderful variety of French wines: from Alsace to Bordeaux, from Burgundy to the Rhone Valley … and leave as a French wine expert!
Whether you are a wine novice or a real connoisseur, this tasting is made for you! Held in a cellar in the heart of Paris, close to the Louvre, this wine tasting is just a short walk from the metro station Louvre Rivoli. This cellar has a lot of personality and the decor has been recently restored. This is your opportunity for good fun and great wine in a friendly atmosphere with plenty of helpful information guaranteed. With a unique and refreshing approach, the sommelier from O Chataeau will teach you how to read a French label and how to navigate a wine list. You will also learn about wine techniques for appreciation and strategies for pairing food and wine! You will go through the major French wine regions and the interesting details that make French wines unique. You will learn fun and useful tips, including how to slurp wine with class!
Includes: White and red wine tastings of six different wines with a French sommelier. Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat at 5pm. Between $75-100 per person

Cooking Classes:

Cooking Class in the Opera Area – A great opportunity to recreate your favourite French dishes with a French cooking teacher at hand! Come and spend the day at Myriam’s, our experienced cooking teacher, who will warmly welcome you at her lovely terraced apartment in the 9th district. Born in Provence in a family of chefs, Myriam will give you recipes for delicious traditional or more creative dishes along with very useful cooking tips. Under Myriam’s watchful eye, you and the small group will all contribute to the preparation of a whole meal: starter, main dish and dessert.
Includes: The three courses cooked on the class, one glass of wine and a tea or coffee.
Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat at 1045am. Duration: 3 hours. Between: $175-200 per person.

Cooking Class and Market in the Opera Area – Same as the Cooking Class above but you will firstl meet Myriam at her apartment for a tea or coffee and a homemade pastry. Then she will take you to the nearby market of Levis street, well-known for its fresh products There, Myriam will teach you how to choose the best products for the dishes you will be preparing. You will then go back to Myriam’s and, under her watchful eye, you will all contribute to the preparation of a whole meal: starter, main dish and dessert.
Includes: A tea or coffee and a pastry in the morning, then the three meals cooked during the class, one glass of wine and a tea or coffee.
Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat at 915am. Duration: 4.5 hours. Between $200-250 per person.

Cooking Class in the St Germain des Pres – Chef Veronique will give you a cooking class in her intimate and elegant apartment near St Germain boulevard. Veronique will first take you and the small group to the market in Boulevard Raspail, before talking you through some of her most refined recipes. You will all help prepare a three course meal that you can enjoy afterwards.
Includes: The three meals cooked during the class.
Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat at 1045am. Duration: 2.45 hours. Between $150-175 per person

Dessert Cooking Class in the Opera Area - The ideal class for people interested in French dessert making. This class will take place at Myriam’s lovely appartment in the 9th district. Myriam is an experienced cooking teacher, born in Provence in a family of chefs. Myriam will assist you and the small group in cooking 3 different desserts and will give you some of her precious tips. You will then be able to enjoy the desserts you made with a coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
Includes: Tasting of three desserts and tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat at 3pm. Duration: 3 hours.Between $100-150 per person

Pure Chocolate Walking Tour - This guided tour will take you and your small group (8 persons max) to three of Paris’ greatest chocolate makers, located in the St-Germain-des-Pres area. You will have the privilege to be shown their various production methods and the skills of the artisans will be explained to you. Each boutique will offer you a tasting session of their great quality products. This is not a cooking class but a tasting tour. Saturdays at 430pm. Duration: 1.5 hours. Less than $50 per person.

A Walk and Taste of Flavours in the St Germain des Pres District - Enjoy a guided walking tour of picturesque St Germain des Pres, accompanied by amusing anecdotes of local artisans all while sampling their delicious specialities. Stroll through the charming and historic St Germain des Pres district while tempting your taste buds on this “epi-curious” adventure. Your guide will take you through the sweet past and savoury present of mythical St Germain des Pres. Enjoy wondering through small streets and well hidden passages as this district reveals its rich and rebellious story. Stroll from its Abbey to its cafes, art galleries and luxury boutiques. Through jazz, existentialism and the Rive Gauche spirit, you will experience a bounty of delicious stories. Along the way you will hear amusing anecdotes of local artisans and learn about their traditions while sampling their delicious products in front of their boutiques – you will sample oils, cheeses, meats, wine and something sweet. The stroll ends at a speciality wine store.
Includes: Services of a local guide and 5 delicious tastings.
Saturdays at 330pm. Duration: 3 hours.

Other options may be available. Prices subject to change at any time.

Interested in finding out more information about one of these options? Or need assistance with your vacation plans? Please just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form.

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A private guided tour of the British Museum is one of many options

When I say the word “tour” many clients shudder in horror – “I don’t want to be part of a big group”, “I want to do my own exploring”, “I can never hear the guide”…

But there are alternatives to being in a group tour. In fact, Private Guided tours are becoming increasingly popular in London, and all over Europe. These tours allow you and your fellow travelers “front row seats” to many aspects of London that you may otherwise miss when trying to navigate around a busy city on your own. Its sorta like traveling on your own – but with your own private expert!

Private tours are higher in cost but that is because you are also getting one-on-one attention by experts in their fields (art, architecture, history, etc). This allows you to ask your guide questions and get real answers without having to raise your hand or fight your way to the front (My Disclaimer: Not all group tours are this bad!).

Here is a selection of private guided tours that may be available during your stay in London. If you are interested in finding out more about any of these options, please just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form.

Foody London – Borough Market Private Walking Tour
Visit one of the most charming and authentic fine food destinations in London, Borough Market, for the perfect journey of touch, taste and smell!
Visit Borough Market, one of England’s most charming and authentic fine food destinations – on a private, intimate walking and tasting tour. A firm favourite with London’s chefs, amateur cooks and urban sophisticates, Borough Market is packed with tantalising foody gems waiting to be discovered. ‘Foody London’ is a private experience aimed at solo visitors, couples or friends looking to move beyond the tourist trail. Join your personal insider guide, a London based foody, on a fabulous journey of touch, taste and smell. From award winning olives and cheeses to super health foods and delicate pastries: discover and hear the tales of an extraordinary mix of artisan foods. Your last stop is the famous Maria’s Cafe where if you wish you can taste a quintessential English dish from yesteryear, bubble (mashed potato) and squeak (usually cabbage), the perfect way to close your London market experience!
Duration: 2 hours. Available Thu/Fri/Sat at either 11am or 1pm. Between $125-150 per person

Gay London – Private Walking Tour
As one of the world’s most exciting gay visitor destinations, Gay Capital is a fabulous three hour private walking tour of London’s gay neighbourhoods. Your expert gay insider guide will show you the gay life of central London by combining an intimate look at London’s gay history and personalities (past and present), and today’s gay scene. Discover London’s gay fashion quarter, interior stores, bookshop, cinemas and theatres. Also in the mix if it’s your scene we can also visit a number of specialty gay adult shops. This is the perfect way to get an overview of the London gay scene. You finish your Capital Gay experience with a coffee and cake (calorie counting is not permitted) at one of London’s most popular gay coffee shops.
Duration: 3 hours. Daily at either 11am or 1pm. Between $125-150 per person

Hip London – Uber Cool East End Private Walking Tour
Discover London’s uber cool East End. A private walking tour for solo visitors, couples or friends that want to connect with the beat of London’s hippest neighbourhood. Let your personal insider guide share the extraordinarily hip (but often missed) secret locations. One Europe’s most creative hubs the Hip London tour is aimed at visitors keen to move beyond central London and discover an alternative view of London life. Every ‘in-the-know’ Londoner’s little black book is packed with shops, galleries and spaces drawn from the cutting edge of art, fashion and design in east London. Today the East End it is one of London’s most vibrant and multi-layered enclaves, combining a rich heritage with cutting-edge design, young hip residents and creative chatter. Discover the areas most intriguing shops, galleries and hidden gems with an expert in-the-know guide drawn from a mix of writers, designers and trendspotters. In fact, the type of person that has made the East End their home.
Duration: 3 hours. Daily at 11am or 1pm. Between $125-150 per person.

British Museum with a Scholar – Private Walking Tour
This walk explores how the British Museum came into existence in the mid-eighteenth century during the period of Enlightenment, so called because of people’s desire to re-examine received ideas and explore new ones using different methods of collecting data. We will look at some of the antiquities and languages of ancient Iraq and Iran as material from these areas forms some of the earliest collections in the British Museum. We begin our walk in the Enlightenment Gallery where we will talk about how archaeology evolved from the work of antiquaries; how art history was born with the study of ancient Greek sculpture and vase painting, and how Greek art set the standard for the next 200 years of what was considered the model of fully evolved art. We then move onto discussing how ancient texts came to be deciphered in the first place and we will compare the ways in which hieroglyphs and cuneiform, the two earliest scripts, were cracked. Our discussion will be illustrated by the Rosetta Stone which now lives in the British Museum, along with about 130,000 pieces of cuneiform tablets from ancient Iraq, some of which are on display.
Duration: 3 hours. Daily at 11am or 230pm. Between $150-200 per person.

London Architecture – Private Walking Tour
Constantly changing throughout time, London’s topography and architectural elements are completely different from those of any other big European capital. Spanning from the Norman times till recent years, this walk will offer a general introduction to the main periods and styles of London architecture, all led by a PhD level scholar/historian. Take this walking tour with a difference – led by a Ph.D. level scholar/historian our supplier will provide you with an in-depth alternative to traditional tours, pairing intellectually curious and adventurous travellers with specialists for an in-depth cultural experience. Constantly changing throughout time, London’s topography and architectural elements are completely different from those of any other big European capital. Spanning from the Norman times till recent years, this walk will offer a general introduction to the main periods and styles of London architecture. Walking around the central areas of Holborn and Bloomsbury, we will get to know the main features of London’s buildings through the different ages, the sources of their styles, the building materials and their practical function in the urban environment. The tour starts at Temple church, built by the Knights Templar in the shape of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which represents one of the best places to discuss Medieval London and the passage between Norman-Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The walk with also lead you to different style buildings from the Jacobean, Georgian and Victorian eras.
Duration: 3 hours. Available daily except Sunday at 10am or 2pm. Between $150-200 per person.

Portrait of a City – Private Walking Tour
Take this walking tour with a difference – led by a Ph.D. level scholar/historian our supplier will provide you with an in-depth alternative to traditional tours, pairing intellectually curious and adventurous travellers with specialists for an in-depth cultural experience. London has a rich 2000 year old history, but much of it is hidden and hard to perceive by the uninitiated. This walk seeks to bring to light much of this history, looking broadly at the story of the city in a three hour walk. For the purposes of this walk we will focus on the City itself and see how London developed from a Roman town to the bustling financial centre of an empire. We will begin at the Museum of London, where we will walk through a timeline of the history of the capital. As we leave the museum we will pass some of the remainders of the Roman wall and fort that was situated in this area. We shall then proceed to the Guildhall, the medieval town hall and the only pre-1666 secular building that survived the fire and the WWII Blitz. We will then proceed to walk through the heart of the city through Eastcheap, once part of the area containing London’s medieval market, whose memory only remains in the road names. From here we will walk to the Monument, a large monolith, that commemorates the believed starting-point for the Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed most of the Medieval city.
Duration: 3 hours. Available Daily at 10am. Between $150-200 per person.

Tides of Time – Private Walking Tour
Take this walking tour with a difference – led by a Ph.D. level scholar/historian our supplier will provide you with an in-depth alternative to traditional tours, pairing intellectually curious and adventurous travellers with specialists for an in-depth cultural experience. Old Father Thames is the longest and best known river in England. In this walk, we move from Tower Bridge to the Houses of Parliament as we explore how the river and the city have shaped each other. Most of the walk will follow the recently regenerated and pedestrianised South Bank, where we will pass the rebuilt Shakespearean Globe Theatre, ruins of a medieval palace and the former Bankside Power Station, which has been transformed into London’s most recent art museum, the Tate Modern. Royal palaces and modern government buildings will illuminate the river’s role as a power base; old warehouses and wharfs will illustrate the working river and the bridges will tell the story of the development of areas previously divided by the river. In addition, we will chart how London has cleaned up its act, and its river, since the ‘Big Stink’ of 1858, allowing the Thames to once again become a diverse wildlife habitat.
Duration: 2.5 hours. Daily at 10am or 2pm. Between $150-200 per person.

Saturday Markets – Private Walking Tour
Enjoy a stroll through some of the most charming markets in London such as Broadway Market, Borough Market and Camden Passage.
Connect with the heart beat of London and discover the cities wonderful street markets. This private, exclusive Saturday morning experience showcases the best of London’s Saturday morning markets. Saturday Market is a private walking tour for solo visitors, couples or friends looking to move beyond the tourist trail and connect with contemporary, stylish London. If you value private, intimate and authentic experiences then this is for you. Moving around the city on public transport (travel card not included), our day starts in the north east of the city at Broadway Market in Hackney. One of London’s best kept secrets is small, intimate and packed with unique character. Discover artisan food, independent stalls and a fabulous mix of shops. From here it’s onto England’s finest food markets, Borough Market, close to London Bridge, an eye-opening, mouth watering destination. Here you can taste food and drink from across the globe, including award winning olives, cheeses and hams. Your tour closes at one of London’s much loved hidden gems, Camden Passage. An antique and flea market packed with over 50 established and younger dealers it is a haven for style-conscious Londoners. Camden Passage has a charm and atmosphere that is uniquely London.
Duration: 3 hours. Saturdays at 11am or 1pm. Between $150-200 per person.

Style Capital – Private Shopping and Fashion Tour
On the Style Capital shopping and fashion tour you will fast-track to the inside knowledge across London’s style scene. There is no better shopping destination in the world than London, but London’s sheer size and scale can often leave visitors overwhelmed and even worse, lost. Your in-the-know insider guide, a London based style journalist or designer, will introduce you to the hottest neighbourhoods, boutiques and one-off shops in London. This is an engaging, relaxed walking tour for the style conscious and curious. The tour will thrill serious shoppers and casual browsers. Get the inside track on locations known only to native Londoners, urban sybarites and fashion insiders. The Capital Style tour focuses on the upmarket enclaves of Bond Street and Marylebone. Packed with interesting treasures on every corner, we take you to slick department stores, world renowned designers, intimate boutiques, and independent shops. From the established to the up-and-coming, we look forward to showing you London’s best.
Duration: 3 hours. Daily at 11am or 1pm. Between $150-200 per person.

Please note that not all of these tours are available year-round. To find out if any of these options are available for your dates, please just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form.

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Looking for some fun kid- and teen-friendly activities to do while in London (let’s face it – most kids aren’t too thrilled with just going to museums!)? Here is a selection of “vacation enhancements” that they might be interested in! All of these arrangements can be booked in advance – just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form for more info!

Duck Tours Road and River Sightseeing Adventure
Step on board this amphibious vehicle and drive past many famous London landmarks, such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus, before a dramatic launch into the Thames for the second part of the tour. This continues with more sightseeing of London – only this time in the river rather than by road. The excitement of seeing the capital in this novel way is enhanced by an entertaining action packed commentary. Less than $50 per adult/child

Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds is one of London’s hottest attractions. Its both visually immersive and interactive and should be top of your list when visiting London. As you wander around Madame Tussauds you will stumble across an endless number of famous faces including David Beckham, Kylie Minogue, President Bush, Tony Blair and many more. You can also interact with the model celebrities, for example, you can be there when David Beckham prepares to take one of his famous free kicks and feel the beat of his heart and tremble as the floor vibrates beneath your feet!! Then you can go through to the London Stardome and explore this interactive show dome. You will also get to experience ‘Scream’ which is a maximum security prison taken over by the unhinged inmates, their mission is to give you nightmares. This is not suitable for children under the aged of 12 or for people of a nervous disposition. Less than $50 per adult/child

London Eye
Take a flight on Merlin Entertainment’s London Eye, a visually striking structure and the world’s largest observation wheel. As you ascend over the Thames you will see London’s famous streets, churches, palaces and monuments spread out below in a panoramic scene giving you a new perspective of a great city! On a clear day the views can stretch as far as 25 miles to Windsor Castle. Visitor to the London Eye can now experience a four minute 4D film focused on the journey of a little girl and her father in London in which they visit the London Eye and enjoy a spectacular take on the capital. Their experience is brought to life with vibrant 3D images of colourful parties and events inside the London Eye capsules, dramatic firework displays, a snowfall over the city, revolutionary aerial footage of other iconic landmarks and sophisticated, fun 4D effects. Visitors will feel like they are really there. Less than $50 per adult/child

Original London Sightseeing Tour
The Original London Sightseeing Tour offers you 4 Hop-on Hop-off bus routes to customise your own tour of London.The ticket is valid on all routes operated by The Original tour for 24hours. The Original Tour (Yellow route) is the Grand Tour and takes you to the best of London’s sights with an entertaining live guided English commentary. The City sightseeing tour (Red route) covers the major sights and offers digitally recorded commentary in seven languages plus a specialist children’s channel for under 16′s. Then there’s the Loop line (Green route) connecting London’s West End to Westminster and Waterloo International train station. Finally there is The Museum tour (Blue route) which gives you easy access to many of London’s top museums, shops and attractions. You will also receive a free river cruise voucher to be taken on one of City Cruisers sightseeing cruises on the Thames and Includes a FREE walking tour with every bus tour ticket! Less than $50 per adult/child

Harry Potter’s London Walk
Experience the Harry Potter’s magical London as we take you round the London film locations and inspirations behind the books, including the latest film locations from Harry Potter and the Half Blooded Prince. The walking tour includes a boat cruise along the Thames, a bus ride across London Bridge and a London Underground journey for which you need to have a valid Zone 1 travelcard to take part. You will see the cinema where each of the Harry Potter films has had its world premiere. The location of the red telephone box where Harry and Mr Weasley descend into the secret Ministry of magic (order of the Phoenix). The magical platform 9 and 3/4 sign where Harry catches the Hogwart’s Express. The bridge destroyed by Lord Voldermort’s Death Eaters (half Blooded prince) and many more sights.
Duration: 2.5 hours. Departures Fri at 7pm, Sat at 4pm or Sun at 1030am. Less than $50 per adult/child

Medieval Banquet Evening
Join King Henry VIII and his court for two hours of theatre & themed entertainment, enjoy unlimited wine and beer with your feast, then carry on dancing until late!
A four course feast awaits you with unlimited beer and wine in King Henry’s Banqueting Halls. The regal banquet takes place in the atmospheric vaulted cellars of Ivory House, just a stone’s throw from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Accompanying King Henry VIII are fighting knights, strolling players and dancing wenches, providing a magical medieval pageant for your delight. After the show, there is music and dancing, after which, you could take a two minute walk to Tower Bridge and enjoy a panoramic view of London by night. Prepare to be swashed and buckled by our fiery knights, marvel at minstrels and raise your tankard and cry “Wassail!” to the lords and ladies of the dance as a medieval extravaganza unfurls before your eyes.
Includes: Four-course banquet, chicken meal or vegetarian meal, Unlimited wine and beer with the meal, Two hours of theatre & themed entertainment, Open bar, great music and dancing until late. Available Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun evenings. Between $50-100 per person.

St Paul’s Cathedral, Crypt, and Galleries
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late seventeenth century, St Paul’s cathedral is one of the world’s most beautiful and best loved buildings. A potent symbol of the life of the nation, its stones have absorbed the hopes, fears, sorrows and joys of generations; an enduring symbol of both the past and present. St Paul’s welcomes many thousands of visitors through its doors each year for services, concerts, debates, educational events, performing arts and sightseeing. Recently transformed by state-of-the-art restoration techniques, the light flooding the internal space of the Cathedral highlights the luminescent Portland stone and brings mosaics, carvings, paintings and sculptures to life. St. Paul’s have now added “Oculus” a New 270 degrees film experience that brings 1400 years of history to life. Located in the atmospheric former Treasury in the crypt, Oculus takes visitors on a journey through the history and daily life of St Paul’s Cathedral. St Paul’s is a must see when visiting the famous capital! Less than $50 per adult/child

The Tower of London and River Cruise
The tour commences with a panoramic tour of the City of London followed by a guided tour of St Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece. It’s then on to the Tower of London, home to the world famous Crown Jewels and host to many dark and bloody secrets. Meet the magnificent Beefeaters in their Tudor uniforms, hear the legend of the ravens and some spine chilling tales from the Tower’s 900 year history. See the infamous Bloody Tower where the Princes were murdered. Here you will also have some time to explore by yourself. As the afternoon ends you will be then able to enjoy a River cruise from the Tower of London.
Includes: Transportation by coach, English speaking guide, cruise on the River Thames and entrance to The Tower of London, guided tour of St Pauls Cathedral.
Duration: 5 hours. Daily at 1245pm. Between $75-100 per person

Vintage Red London Bus Tour
What better way to see the highlights of London than from onboard a vintage Red double Decker bus? Enjoy great views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye as we meander through the streets and history of our great city, all brought to life by our professional guide. Have your cameras at the ready as we stop for photos at Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral where Admirals Nelson and Wellington lie buried and where Princess Diana was married. Then join us at the Tower of London that was built nearly a thousand years ago, during the reign of William the Conqueror, and is now home to the Crown Jewels protected by the famous Beefeaters. The imposing former palace was once used as a fortress and a prison and your guide will take you to see Traitors Gate where prisoners entered the Tower for the last time! Next we take a leisurely cruise on the River Thames that passes Shakespeare’s Globe, Cleopatra’s Needle and London Bridge before we arrive at Westminster pier, rejoin the bus and head for Buckingham Palace. Here we make our way to the perfect spot to watch the world famous Changing of the Guard ceremony as the soldiers, dressed in their fabulous tunics and busbies march to military music. In the afternoon tour we will take in the inspection of the Guards at Horseguards Parade rather than the Changing of the Guards.
Includes: Vintage red London bus tour with changing of the guard in the morning and inspection of the Guard at Horseguards Parade and Thames river cruise.
Duration: 4 hours. Departs daily at 815am or 130pm. Between $50-75 per person

Day-trip options include:

Windsor Castle and Runnymede

This delightful tour starts at the home of the Royal family – Windsor Castle – the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Its proud, strong walls dominate the delightful town that has grown around the castle over the years. Generations of Kings and Queens have conducted their business here and enjoyed its grounds. Here you will get a real sense of British history breathing through the walls of Windsor castle. You’ll see the lavishly decorated state apartments containing priceless furniture in glorious colours and St George’s chapel, home to the 14th Century Order of the Royal Garter, our senior chivalric order. Departing Windsor we make our way to the magnificent Runnymede, where King John met his barons in 1215 and agreed to seal the Magna Carta that was to have a profound influence on rights and freedoms, not only in England, but across much of the civilised world. We will also see the memorial to John F Kennedy on an acre of land given to America by the people of Britain.  Includes: Transportation by coach, professional blue badge guide, Entrance to Windsor Castle, visit to Runnymede and view the John F Kennedy memorial. Duration: 5 hours. Departs Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun at 1pm. Between $75-100 per person.

Simply Stonehenge
Wander around the world heritage site and be captivated by the unique rock formation! Situated on Salisbury Hill, 40 ton rocks stand alone since their arrival 5,000 years ago. Abundance of theories surround Stonehenge; from a religious temple to an astronomical clock and even a Bronze Age burial ground! Decide for yourself whilst discovering the history of this mysterious monument.
Includes: Transportation by coach, entrance to Stonehenge with audio guide on arrival.
Duration: 5 hours. Daily at 830am. Between $50-75 per person
Half-day Stonehenge tours also available daily with a midday departure.

Need help with your London travel plans?  Want to book one of these options or have questions about them? Please just email me or fill out a Travel Request Form! I respond within 24 hours (but often much quicker then that!).

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Destination of the Month: London

How can I have LondonParisAmsterdam.com without having London as the first destination of the month for January 2011?

London is an amazing city and one of my favorites (ok, so I might be biased as my family is all originally from London). However, on every visit I’ve been able to find something new to love about this exciting destination.

Highlights to any visitor include:

- The Tower of London – Great for the whole family. Explore the grounds and turrets of this landmark attraction. Say hello to the ravens and listen to the stories told by the official “Beefeaters”.

- British Museum – Home of the Rosetta Stone and thousands of other artifacts from around the world. Don’t miss the Egyptian and Greek collections. Can easily spend a whole day in this (free) museum.

- London Eye - Take a flight on the London Eye for birds-eye views of London. The London Eye rotates slowly so no motion sickness. And its climate controlled.

- Harrods – Go shopping (or at least window shopping) in this megastore – a London original. Don’t miss the Food Court which is just overwhelming. Stock up on some goodies for a picnic!

- Buckingham Palace – The site of the Changing of the Guard. However, you can’t actually go inside the Palace unless its the summertime (and then you can only see a small part of the Palace). If the Queen is home, the flag will be up. The Changing of the Guard attracts large crowds so get there early! (It is held around 1145am every other day).

- St Paul’s Cathedral – Sir Christopher Wren’s magnificent cathedral. This is where Charles and Diana got married. You can pre-purchase tickets which enable you to skip the line.

- Westminster Abbey – A different type of experience when compared to St Paul’s. This Abbey oozes history from every nook and cranny. Visit Poet’s Corner and see the tombs of royals.

- The Tate’s – There are two Tate Museums in London: the Modern and the Britain. The Tate Britain houses British art from the 1500′s to Modern Day. The Tate Modern houses an international collection of contemporary and modern art in a unique facility (once a power house, now a museum).

- Piccadilly Circus – Always crowded, hectic and loud. Come at night when the famous advertising screens really light up the area.

- Trafalgar Square – Large area outside the National Portrait Gallery. Used to be home to hundreds of pigeons but I think they are all gone now.

- Food and Antique Markets – London is home to various street markets including Portabello Road (Antiques), Camden Market (clothes, jewelry and everything else), and the London Borough Market (amazing food market).

- and Much More! This is just a sampling of the different sights and attractions that makes London unique – no matter how many times you go!

Have a “must-see” London idea? Just comment below!

Planning a trip to London, or elsewhere in Europe, and need assistance? Just fill out a travel request form or send me an email! I am a travel professional who specializes in Europe. I can assist you every step of the way.

*Sorry the photos aren’t lined up and all organized. I’ve tried reformatting it several times but can’t get it to look right. Sorry – my technical skills aren’t as good as my travel advice* : )

The massive British Museum

The British Museum

Most people visit the British Museum to see the Rosetta Stone – in fact, just getting a glimpse can involve a lot of pushing and shoving

The Rosetta Stone

(much like trying to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre). However, the British Museum has a lot of other noteworthy and interesting artifacts. Those not that interested in history may only need to have a quick walk through the museum (its free, so why not) while the history buffs in the family could spend a whole day.

Inside the British Museum and its sunlit lobby

Most of the collection is either Greek, Egyptian, Asian or Middle Eastern although there are objects from all over the world. Visit the British Museum website for a floor plan with highlights of each section.

The museum is open daily from 10am to 530pm, and is free to all visitors. There is also a couple fun gift stores (one for kids) and foot outlets on property.

Planning a trip to London and have questions? Just fill out a Travel Request Form or email me for personalized assistance!