Posted on Thursday, March 08, 2012
Thinking about taking an escorted tour? Here is a glossary of some common terms used in our itineraries:
Visit - Your coach will stop and you'll get to visit a specific site.
View - A brief stop and an opportunity to take photos.
See - Your Insight coach will drive by the site so that you can see it.
Sightseeing tour - A local city guide will accompany you on a tour of a city or site.
Orientation tour - Places of interest are pointed out, allowing you to go and explore them on your own.
'Why not see' or 'perhaps enjoy' - These phrases refer to optional excursions not included in the tour package, but are available for an additional fee.
Time to explore and discover - Free time on your own.
A day to relax - No planned activities; time for optional excursions or other independent activities.
Our tour specialists are always available to help you understand what is included on a tour vacation, so that you can plan how much money to budget on your European vacation.
Posted on Saturday, April 09, 2011
The Hofburg Palace is located in Vienna, Austria. From 1438 to 1583 and 1612 to 1086, it was home to the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. It is now the residence of the current Austrian Federal President. It has many different area and wings that make up the palace itself. Over the centuries, the Hofburg has expanded to include many different things, including museums, a chapel, horse stables, and the Imperial Library.
Among the oldest sections of the palace is the Swiss Wing. These oldest parts date back to the 13th century, and were mainly built by Ottaker II of Bohemia. Before the Hofburg was built, the Austrian rulers’ castle was located near the Scottish Monastery on the square called Am Hof. Inside the Swiss Wing is the gothic chapel Burgkapelle, circa 15th century, the treasury Rechskleinodien, and the Imperial Music Chapel.
The Imperial Library actually a stand-alone structure before it was made part of the palace, and once stood on the other side of the complex. Charles VI was the founder of the library, which is now called Prunksaal. Construction of the building was finished in 1735. This amazing library contains the complete book collection of Prince Eugene, statues of emperors done by Paul Strudel, and a huge ceiling painting by Daniel Gran. Lorenzo Mattielli did the exterior decoration, complete with Attika figures. Here you can see a sculpture of Atlas holding the world on the left side of the roof.
The Redoutensaele, also known as the Redouten Wing, is a gorgeous concert and dance hall that Maria Theresia had converted from a 17th century opera house. It was here that Beethoven’s 8th Symphony premiered in 1842. A fire seriously damaged the wing on November 27th, 1992. Restoration and reconstruction took place over a period of five years, and it was reopened in 1998.
The Ceremonial Hall, or Montoyer Wing, was built at the beginning of the 19th century by Louis Montoyer for Emperor Franz II/I. The original name for it was ‘Nose of the Hofburg’ because of its placement. It was here that Napoleon Bonaparte asked for Marie Louise’s hand in marriage, who was the emperor’s daughter. The exclusive Ball of the Court was also held there.
On the southeastern side is the Augustinian Wing, named for the St. Augustine’s Church. The St. Augustine’s Church was used by the people of the Habsburg dynasty for their court church, and it was also used for wedding ceremonies. It is here that Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elizabeth were married. There is also a chapel on the side of the church called the Hearts’ Crypt, because the hearts of the Habsburgs are laid to rest inside.
If you’re taking a tour of the Hofburg, you should definitely try to go on a Sunday so that you may attend Mass and listen to the amazing voices of Vienna’s Boys Choir. Make sure to visit the Library as well! Opening hours are 9 am to 5:30 pm from September to June, and 9 am to 6 pm for July and August. Admission charges for adults $12 with audio guide or $15 with a tour guide. For children ages 6 to 18, admission charges are $7 with audio guide or $8 with a tour guide.
Posted on Monday, March 21, 2011
If you are planning to travel to a foreign country, why not "dive" into the culture a bit and learn some of the language.
English is spoken by many in Europe, but to be a real traveler, you should learn a few words of that foreign language... no need to purchase a language program (unless you want to,) but learning some key phrases will make it fun, and foreigners appreciate when you try to speak their language. Learn hello, good-bye, please and thank you at the very least. It's just polite to do that.
Also learn how to ask (in their language) if they speak English... or try to ask your question in the local language. They will appreciate the effort. Often they will volunteer, "Would you like to speak English?" And if they don't speak English, they will probably try to find someone who does. Other useful phrases are how much is it? Where is a bathroom? What time is it?
Carry a phrase book. It will help to be able to point out a phrase if the local person you're asking doesn't seem to understand you. Don't just speak louder... that isn't going to help. Remember English is a foreign language to them! Even if you're trying, your pronunciation might leave them scratching their heads or blushing as you've said something you didn't want to. To be a traveler, you need a sense of humor... especially about yourself. If they don’t understand you, don't be embarrassed. Point to the word in the phrase book.
Take a chance. People are forgiving of tourists.... even the French who have an undeserved reputation for not being helpful. The key is to be GRATEFUL that they speak a little English to help you... not to expect it. When you're speaking English, speak slowly and avoid slang.
Don't be intimidated by signs in a foreign language, as you can usually figure things out without asking. Does it look similar to a word you're familiar with? If it says "farmacia" instead of "pharmacy", take a guess... you're probably looking at that pharmacy. Is there a sign with a picture that might help solve the mystery? A green cross or a pharmacist's scale would be a good clue.
Remember, you went on this trip to experience something different... so revel in that foreign language, learn a few words and enjoy yourself! If traveling in a tour group, of course your guide will help you get around and can give you language tips as well.
Posted on Friday, March 18, 2011
First held in the late 1870’s, the Salzburg Music Festival is of great historical significance. Its inspiration is Mozart and its philosophy is to share the legacy of classical European music. With endless concerts, theatrical performances and exhibitions throughout the city, international musicians and music lovers come together in Salzburg to pay tribute to the musical genius. The aura is reminiscent of a bygone era as the sparkle of the snow-capped Alps is rivaled by the glitter and glamour of celebrities arriving at opera houses and theatres. It is the social event of the season not to be missed!
Salzburg Music Festival - July 27th to August 30th, 2011
5 Nights
Mercure Salzburg Kapuzinerberg $811
A favorite hotel in Salzburg, the Mercure Kapuzinerberg, is a short walk from the main train station, pedestrian zone and old town with fortress and Getreidegasse. Within easy reach of the highway, airport, conference and exhibition centers, it's ideal for cultural vacations, business trips, city breaks or stopovers. Boasting 139 rooms (some air-conditioned), "Amadeo" restaurant, Atrium bar, indoor garage, Wi-Fi access and 6 meeting rooms for seminars, conferences and meetings for up to 250 people. Distance from Hotel to Town, 1 miles (2 kms). Distance from Airport to Hotel, 5 miles (8 kms).
NH Salzburg City $999
NH Salzburg-City is located in the heart of the city of Salzburg close to Mirabell-gardens. It offers a central base for the business travelers as well as an ideal starting point for the individual travellers visiting Salzburg. The completely refurbished and air-conditioned hotel offers a high level of comfort an a smart service always with an "eye for detail". Most of the sights and the historic city center can be accessed by walking within a few minutes from the hotel. Distance from Hotel to City, 1 kms (1 mile). Distance from Hotel to Airport, 7 kms (4 miles).
Hotel Goldener Hirsch Salzburg $2318
Situated on the renowned Getreidegasse road, the hotel introduces guests to the city's captivating character. Across from the Festival Hall and down the street from Mozart's house, the hotel is just a short walk from designer boutiques and the Salzach River.
The two authentic Austrian restaurants and renowned bar are some of Salzburg's top pre and post-theater haunts, paying homage to the city's rich bohemian heritage. The historical "Die Bibliothek", meanwhile, offers a glimpse at the hotel's scholarly past.
The 65 rooms and four suites boast authentic Salzburg-style decor. The original antiques, handmade furniture, and native rag rugs are opulent and discreet, and honor 600 years of hotel history. Distance from Hotel to Munich, Germany, 1 1/2 hours. Distance from Hotel to Salzburg Airport W.A. Mozart, 15 minutes.
Included Sightseeing Tours:
Salzburg Mozart City Tour: This tour is the best way to see all the important sights of both the new and old parts of the city. Visit Mozart's Wohnhaus (Mozart's Residence), where the composer lived for many years, Mozart Square where you will see the famous Mozart statue and much more!
Sound of Music Tour: Enjoy a day trip visiting the breathtaking landscapes and locations where the famous musical, the Sound of Music, was filmed. The English-speaking guide not only shows you the highlights of the film 'Sound of Music' but also the historical and architectural landmarks in the city.
Package prices are per person and include:
- Private roundtrip airport/hotel transfers
- 5-night hotel accommodations
- Hotel tax
- Daily breakfast
- Salzburg Mozart City Tour
- Sound of Music Tour
Tours operated by Travel Impressions, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. Rates are land only, per person, based on double occupancy in the lowest available room categories. Mercure Salzburg Kapuzinerberg rate is valid for travel 7/29/11-8/27/11; all other hotel rates are valid for travel 7/22/11-8/31/11 and vary by departure date. Blackout, holiday, and peak season surcharges apply. Rates and promotions are accurate at time of publication and are subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. All advertised savings are reflected in price. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the publication of this ad. Additional higher priced packages available. Valid for new bookings only.
Posted on Friday, February 25, 2011
‘Tis the season to be jolly, so it’s time to wrap up warm and prepare for some festive fun. Why not do some shopping in European Christmas markets?
Picture the scene: sparkling Christmas lights adorning snowy trees; chestnuts roasting on an open fire and a warming glass of mulled wine to stave off the cold; little stalls selling everything from wooden toys to hand-crafted jewellery to Christmas panettone. Yes, it’s the time of year when all across Europe the Christmas markets are in full swing, and there’s no better place to pick out some unique gifts for your loved ones back home – or, indeed, a Christmas present for yourself! And, unlike the commercialised chaos of the shops back home, the bustling Christmas markets of a stunning European city like Prague, Munich or Vienna are guaranteed to leave you feeling festive not fraught.
The traditional Christmas market originates in Germany, where it is known as the Christkindlmarkt and held throughout the four weeks of Advent in celebration of Christmas. A Christmas market was held in Dresden as far back as 1434, and today its 60 stalls attract as many as two million visitors each year. You can visit this city yourself on a Trafaglar tour of Germany. These days you have a wide range of festive destinations to choose from on a tour of Europe, whether it’s a traditional Christkindlmarkt in its German homeland, or beyond to European cities as diverse as Krakow in Poland, Salzburg in Austria and Zurich in Switzerland. The perfect way to discover the joy of the traditional Christmas market is on the Trafalgar Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland European tour – endless inspiration for your Christmas shopping!
There’s no time quite like December to visit an enchanting European capital. Traditional Christmas markets tours offer the perfect seasonal shopping experience and are an ideal way to get yourself in the mood for Christmas. If you’ve never been to one before, we’re sure you’ll love them as much as we do – and if you have, then you’ll know what we’re talking about!
