Inspiration and pure attitude to life. Bavarians are among the proudest and most independent minded people in Germany. Locals are loyal to their roots and traditions. Bavaria is also the most autonomous of German states, and many Bavarians see themselves as Bavarians first and foremost, Germans second. SCHLOSS ELMAU south of Garmisch-Partenkirchen Occasionally you stumble upon a hotel that makes … Read More
Belgium’s underrated capital city lures travelers with Baroque architecture, medieval history, and plenty of beer and chocolate. Brussels WikiVoyage Page A great resource for all the basic information you need for Brussels. My Brussels Information Page at Virtuoso Here is a good place to start for some additional information on quality Hotels and Activities. Belgium General Information Page Have a … Read More
Fabled Libations, Rich Culture, & Stunning Terrain Portugal’s Douro Valley vineyards have served as the center of the port-wine industry for 400 years. But look beyond the bottom of your glass to discover the cliffs and beaches of the Algarve, the waterfalls and lakes of Peneda-Geres National Park, the gorges and peaks of Madeira, and the maze-like Moorish alleys of … Read More
The Hills Are Vibrant And Full Of Life While Lisbon is famous for its melancholic, mandolin-accompanied music, Fado, the city itself offers a different mood entirely. Colorful buildings line the narrow streets of the Alfama neighborhood, where cafes serve strong espresso and pastelerias dish out regional sweet treats. Yellow trams traverse Lisbon’s steep hills, while the ornate 16th-century UNESCO World … Read More
Visitors to Tuscany come for many reasons. Many come in search of fine art, others to explore the extraordinary countryside. Gourmets and wine buffs descend on Tuscany to enjoy the simple yet wonderful cuisine and wine. Walkers enjoy the mountain paths, cyclists the rolling hills, summer vacationers the sea coast and islands. Students come to learn the beautiful Italian language … Read More
I had the extreme pleasure of being treated to a French Road Trip. First hand experience of what the spirit of the Relais & Chateaux experience is all about. For all intents and purposes, this page focuses on the region of Provence, and up the Mediterranean Coast to Côte d’Azur and Nice. I only had the pleasure of experiencing NCE … Read More
Romantic Ruins Visit the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and the manicured Villa Borghese park overlooking the city. Admire Michelangelo’s work at the Sistine Chapel and the spectacular St. Peter’s Basilica. You’ll never tire of this lively, chaotic, beautiful city. Chapter Roma Rome’s historic Regola neighborhood Rome has glamorous hotels, opulent hotels, luxurious hotels. But it doesn’t have many hotels … Read More
Finnair makes it very easy and a pleasure to get to Finland For some reason, many prefer winter in Helsinki, which is much milder than one would expect. This would make it a good year-round experience, pending on your love of cold nordic climate. Part of the EU & Schengen, so once in Europe it is a simple to enter … Read More
What was originally planned to be a 1-day/2-night stopover, turned out to be a 6-night stay, and what a great place to be for 5 full days. The food was great – everywhere, it’s pretty safe for everyone, and for those with children, very kid friendly. For me one of the biggest downfalls is the lack of Über, but there … Read More
Most likely one of the prettiest major airports I have been to. A beautiful design and extremely efficient. The first time I landed here, I could not wait to come back. And upon returning, it was a pleasure to spend a bit of extra time. Modern and warm inside. It is a very inviting environment to prepare for your journey. … Read More
Get “Craic”in… Celtic Capital Sets the Bar High for Good Times You’ll find great “craic”—the Irish term for fun—in Temple Bar, where music and laughter enliven plentiful pubs. Learn to pull the perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse, or get in the spirit at the Old Jameson Distillery. For a sobering tour, visit Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison, or get … Read More
Castles, cliffs, and one of the world’s most dazzling coastlines await Drive the Ring of Kerry for memorable views of mountains and sea, and experience the stony isolation of the Burren, a vast limestone plateau. Brace yourself atop the windy 700-foot Cliffs of Moher, and walk among 60-million-year-old stone columns on Giant’s Causeway. Sleep like a king at a castle … Read More
