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PRAGUE and CHRISTMAS MARKETS CRUISE
along the LEGENDARY DANUBE RIVER
December 2 - 10, 2012
Travel Broker Tours invites you to join Denise Johnson, on an wonderful Prague and Christmas Markets Cruise along the legendary Danube River during the 2012 Holiday Season!
RESERVE YOUR SPOT! THIS RIVER CRUISE BOOKS UP FAST!
Travel Broker Tours invites you to join Denise Johnson, on an wonderful Prague and Christmas Markets Cruise along the legendary Danube River during the 2012 Holiday Season!
Enjoy and celebrate the holiday spirit in true 'winter wonderland' fashion on our Prague and Christmas Markets Cruise along the legendary Danube River during the 2012 Holiday Season! Delight in the sights, smells and tastes of the historic and local Christmas markets of Prague, Nuremberg, Regensburg and so many more along the Danube River. We'll visit charming towns dressed in their holiday best, while admiring beautiful vista's of enchanting Bavaria and the charming Wachau Valley of Austria. Many of our signature traditions such as Christmas trees, baubles, tinsle, gingerbread houses, nutcrackers, candy canes and jolly St. Nick come to us from Germany and Austria.
Beginning in the 1,000 yr old city of Prague's Old Town Square enjoy a cup of 'svarené víno' (hot mulled wine) while browsing the brightly decorated wooden huts selling a variety of traditional Czech products, handicrafts and Christmas stocking stuffers. Then discover the medieval atmosphere of Nuremberg’s renowned main Christmas Market, and sample its famous holiday gingerbread. Stroll through Regensburg’s romantic Christmas Market, savoring dumplings with vanilla sauce. In Passau, shop for unique crafts like hand-painted porcelain and Bohemian glass ornaments. And in Linz, “The Town of Christmas Crèches,” you’ll marvel at the small clay figurines that represent the people of a typical village—the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker. Hear an exclusive organ recital at the Augustinian Convent in Dürnstein and a Mozart and Strauss concert in Vienna. All this and more, in three countries of culture and elegance, will surely make for a joyous start to your holiday festivities.
Join us and make 2012's holiday season one you’ll never forget!
Our Program
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 Tour EscortDenise Johnson
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Highlights Include:
- 2 Nt Prague Pre-Cruise Tour: 2 Nts superior hotel accomodation in Prague with private bathroom, daily buffet breakfast, guided sightseeing and land transfer to river ship in Nuremberg on embarkation day.
- 6 Nt Deluxe Danube River Cruise: 6 Nts Nuremberg to Vienna cruise on theNEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama which launches in May 2011) in an outside stateroom including windows, all meals, sightseeing and excursion program as per itinerary.
- Guided sightseeing excursions in Prague, Nuremburg, Regensburg, Melk and Vienna - Daily port lectures, sightseeing and shore excursions (with personal headsets) with an expert local guide and VIP access into key destinations, no waiting in lines. Included sightseeing and excursions per itinerary. Optional excursions available.
- Welcome reception and farewell Captain's dinner - Enjoy a welcome reception on day of embarkation, Captain's reception and farewell dinner.
Detailed Itinerary
SAT Dec 1 - Depart HOME CITY
You depart on your international flight (not included in tour price) to Prague, Czech Republic. As a full service travel agency, we are happy to assist you to arrange your flight and transfer details from your home city to join this tour.
Day 1: SUN Dec 2, Arrive in PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Welcome to Prague! The Czech Republic’s capital straddles the Vitava River with domes, cupolas, spires and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. Truly one of the most captivating and beloved cities in Europe, the “City of Spires” is a delightful way to begin our Christmas markets tour. Its mixture of gothic, Renaissance, and baroque architecture is amazing to behold.
Lodging: Prague Hilton
Day 2: SUN Dec 3, PRAGUE
Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. We see its best-known treasures such as the Old Town’s Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; Hradcany Castle Grounds; St. Vitus Cathedral; and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books and stroll through the Christmas markets. Rows of brightly decorated wooden huts sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. Get a little inner warmth with a cup of 'svarené víno' (hot mulled wine) and a traditional hot sausage from one of the stalls. The beautifully decorated tree in the Old Town is an impressive sight.
Meals: (B) Breakfast
Lodging: Prague Hilton
Day 3: MON Dec 4, PRAGUE to NUREMBERG, GERMANY for EMBARKATION
After a morning at leisure we'll drive to Nuremberg, where our NEW river cruise ship, the Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama which launches in May 2011) is docked. A brand new kind of vessel, the unique "Suite Ship" is the first of its kind in the industry - with two full decks of suites feauting a Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window that transforms the living space into a unique Open-Air-Balcony. All suites and staterooms have hotel-stye beds, premium bedding and and a large private bathroom w/ full shower and glass door, hairdryer & premium bath amenities. The suites and staterooms are also furnished
with bedside tables w/ reading lamps and an alarm clock, a vanity and writing desk, spacious 3-door closets, easy luggage storage, personal safe, individual climate control, flat-screen satellite TV w/movie channels, Wi-Fi access, direct-dial telephone, well-stocked minibar, complimentary bottled water, bathrobes & slippers and continental breakfast & beverage room service available. The Avalon Panorama accommodates a maximum of 168 guests, providing an intimate small-ship ambiance preferred by experienced cruisers. Facilities onboard include elevators, elegant dining room, bar and club lounge, outside viewing deck, sky deck and shade system w/ premium lounge chairs and whirlpool, expanded fitness centre, hair salon, internet corner w/ Wi-Fi access and library corner. Once onboard we will meet our crew at a welcome reception before enjoying a wonderful dinner in the ships dining room.
Meals: (BD) Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
 Nuremberg Christmas Market and the "Christmas Angel"The Nuremberg Christmas Market or 'Christkindlesmarkt Nürnberg' in German, is one of Germany's oldest Christmas fairs. The pre-Christmas event on Nuremberg's Main Market Square dates back to the mid 16th century. A list from 1737 demonstrates that almost all Nuremberg craftsmen were represented and entitled to offer goods for sale. Towards the end of the 19th century, the Christmas Market became less important and shifted to various venues within the city. In 1933, the Christmas Market moved back to the Main Market Square, where it became a much more romanticised event with the introduction of an actress dressing up as the 'Christmas Angel'. Accompanied by two golden Christmas tree fairies, the "Christmas Angel" would offically open Nuremberg's Christmas Market by reciting a prologue, while a children's choir sang and church bells rang. The prologue has been recited by the "Christmas Angel" on the Friday before the first Advent Sunday ever since. In 1969, the tradition of an actress being selected as the "Christmas Angel" was replaced by a young Nuremberg woman (16 to 19 yrs of age) being elected and holding the title for a two year period. During World War II, no Christmas Market was held in Nuremberg. |
Day 4: TUE Dec 5, NUREMBERG
Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg hosts Germany's most famous Christmas market, which dates back to 1628; the Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The city's traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. This evening we'll introduce you to some of Germany’s famous beers!
Meals: (BLD) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
Day 5: WED Dec 6, REGENSBERG
Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights included on your tour are the Old Town Hall and Porta Pretoria - gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria’s cultural centers. The Christmas market is located on the historic market square. Germany is famous for its sausages and Regensburg is home to the country's oldest restaurant, Historische Wurstküche (the Old Sausage Kitchen), dating back to the 12th century.
Meals: (BLD) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
Day 6: THU Dec 7, PASSAU - LINZ, AUSTRIA
Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights as well as more Christmas cheer - the traditional carols, the sparkling lights, and the smell of candles and gingerbread! Linz, Austria's third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port.
Meals: (BLD) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
Day 7: FRI Dec 8, MELK - VIENNA
Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening, arrive in Vienna, known as the "City of Music," which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight.
Meals: (BLD) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
Day 8: SAT Dec 9, VIENNA
Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy on your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. Soak up the atmosphere of the Adventszeit (Advent season) and spend some time in the beautiful Christmas markets located throughout the city.
Meals: (BLD) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
Day 9: SUN Dec 10, DISEMBARKATION - Depart VIENNA, AUSTRIA for HOME CITY
Our cruise tour ends with breakfast this morning. We disembark in Vienna, Austria filled with memories of Christmas in Eastern Europe!
Meals: (B) Breakfast
Lodging: NEW Avalon Visionary (Sister ship to the Panorama)
INTERESTED in extending your holiday....
As a fully licensed travel agency we are happy to assist in arranging your flights or any other custom arrangements either before or after this program.
Pricing:
† LAND & CRUISE - December 2 to December 10, 2012 Prices per person in Canadian Dollars (CA$) |
In a Twin |
Port Taxes |
| EARLY BOOKING BONUS - Per Person For deposits received by August 29, 2011. †† Save $500.00 per person off "Cruise & Air", and $250.00 per person off "Cruise Only". |
Up to $500.00 †† |
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Category E - Deluxe Stateroom - 172 sq. ft. |
$2,067.00 |
$90.00 |
Category D - Deluxe Stateroom - 172 sq. ft. |
$2,192.00 |
$90.00 |
Category B - Deluxe Stateroom - 200 sq. ft. |
$2,652.00 |
$90.00 |
Category A - Deluxe Stateroom - 200 sq. ft. |
$2,693.00 |
$90.00 |
Category P - Deluxe Stateroom - 200 sq. ft. |
$2,777.00 |
$90.00 |
Category Royal Suite - Deluxe Stateroom - 300 sq. ft. |
$3,487.00 |
$90.00 |
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River Ship Deck Plan (Sister Ship Panorama):
River Ship Staterooms (Sister ship Panorama):
Tour Inclusions:
- 2 Nt Prague Pre-Cruise Tour: 2 Nts superior hotel accomodation in Prague with private bathroom, daily buffet breakfast, guided sightseeing and land transfer to river ship in Nuremberg on embarkation day.
- 6 Nt Deluxe Danube River Cruise: 6 Nts Nuremberg to Vienna cruise on the NEW Avalon Panorama in an outside stateroom including windows, all meals, sightseeing and excursion program as per itinerary.
- Stateroom Features: Hotel-stye beds, premium bedding and and large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer & premium bath amenities. All staterooms are appointed with bedside tables with reading lamps and alarm clock, a vanity and writing desk, spacious 3-door closets, easy luggage storage, In-room safe, individual climate control, flat-screen satellite TV w/movie channels, Wi-Fi access, direct-dial telephone, well-stocked minibar, complimentary bottled water, bathrobes & slippers and continental breakfast & beverage room service available.
- All Meals on River Cruise: Supurb dining with all meals on river cruise including early riser coffee at 6am, full breakfast buffet from 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., full lunch buffet at 12:30 p.m., afternoon tea at 4pm, sit-down four-course dinner at 7:30 p.m. (served in a single sitting) and night fare at 10:30 p.m.
- Enhanced Breakfast: Enjoy an extended daily full buffet breakfast from 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., including complimentary sparkling wine (Mimosa's) and a made-to-order egg station.
- Four - Course Dinners: With choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees & desserts and cheese.
- Regional Wine, Beer and Soft drinks at Dinner: Quality regional wines, beer and soft drinks served with all onboard dinners.
- Coffee, Tea and Premium Coffee Station: Coffee, tea, cappuccino, latte and espresso served all day at the self-serve beverage station.
- Special Social Events: A welcome reception, Captain's reception and 5-course farewell dinner.
- Lectures, Guided Sightseeing and Shore Excursions: Daily port lectures, sightseeing and shore excursions (with personal headsets) with an expert local guide and VIP access into key destinations, no waiting in lines.
- Shipboard Ammenities and Features: Elevators, dining room, bar and club lounge, outside viewing deck, sky deck and shade system w/ premium lounge chairs and whirlpool, expanded fitness centre, hair salon, internet corner w/ Wi-Fi access and library corner.
- Tour Escort and Cruise Director: A Canadian escort from The Travel Broker will travel with the group. Services of a professional Cruise Director while onboard cruise.
- Taxes: Local taxes on all included ground transportation, cruise services, hotel accommodation and meals
Tour Exclusions:
- † International flights to Prague, Czech Republic and return from Vienna, Austria are not included in the above pricing but can be arranged with Travel Broker Tours - A division of The Travel Broker and Cruise Centre.
- Airport Transfers
- Personal Insurances (travel, baggage, cancellation, etc.)
- Passport & Visa Fees and Immunizations.
- All alcoholic beverages and bar beverages (soft drinks, juice, sparkling water, etc.) not mentioned in the inclusions above.
- Personal Charges (excess baggage fees, laundry, souvenirs, personal hotel or cruise charges, etc.)
- All optional excursions or deviations from the itinerary.
- Any item not mentioned in the itinerary or in the inclusions above.
- Tips or gratuities to your tour escort, local host, tour drivers, local city guides, hotel staff (hotel porters, chambermaids and dining staff) and cruise ship staff (cruise stewards and servers).
Deposits and Final Payments:
- Deposits: At time of booking CA$500.00 per person + insurance
premium if applicable. - Final Payment: Final payment due on August 29, 2012. Payments may be made by personal cheque, Visa or Mastercard
Cancellation Charges:
- Once a deposit has been paid the following scale of cancellation charges will apply:
(Note that insurance premiums, once paid, are non-refundable) - Cancellation notice received prior to August 29, 2012 - 100% of Deposit
- Cancellation notice received 90 - 60 days prior to departure - 35% penalty
- Cancellation notice received 59 - 30 days prior to departure - 50% penalty
- Cancellation notice received 29 – 1 day prior to departure - 80% penalty
Tour Notes:
- Christmas markets operate from late November until December 25
- In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach.
- Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility of obtaining visa(s) rests with the traveller.
- Included features, visits, excursions, sightseeing and itinerary details are subject to change; if a change becomes necessary, a substitute will be offered.
For more information or to register for this tour please contact Denise Johnson at:
Travel Broker Tours
A division of The Travel Broker & Cruise Centre
1758 Bath Road Kingston, ON Canada
Telephone: 613-389-7914 or 1-800-387-7678
Email: denise@thetravelbroker.ca
