CHRISTMASTIME IN PRAGUE ON THE
DANUBE & VIENNA
December 24, 2008– January 2, 2009

Won’t you join us as we explore some of the world’s finest cultural wonders, as well as see and participate in some of Central Europe’s most cherished holiday traditions?

In 1,000-year-old Prague, Christmas is the most important family holiday of the year. In keeping with this, the Czechs launch their Christmas Markets the first week of December and keep them open through early January. The Christmas Markets in Old Town Square and in Wenceslas Square are two of Prague’s most popular, with rows of stands offering locally crafted Christmas ornaments, glass jewelry, ceramic mugs, wooden toys, and scented candles, and, of course, the wonderful holiday foods and wines. Nearby, the Havel Christmas Market is held in one of Prague’s oldest marketplaces, established in 1232.

From Prague, we’ll travel cross country to Nuremberg where the German holiday traditions linger with the aromas of mulled wine (Glühwein), sweet roasted almonds, Nuremberg sausages (Wurst), and the city’s celebrated gingerbread (Lebkuchen). Then board one of the newest and most exciting vessels in Europe to cruise the legendary Danube River to Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, then Passau, Linz and Melk (with its spectacular Benedictine Abbey), Austria before arriving in glittering Vienna, the “City of Music”. Here discover a city that was once the center of the Hapsburg Empire, with opulent palaces and the legendary Vienna Opera House with the home of the famous Sachertorte nearby.

Our river home for six nights will be the state-of-the-art
Avalon Tranquility, launched in 2007, with elegant dining and complimentary local wines at dinner, floor to ceiling sliding glass door windows in most staterooms as well as flat screen TVs, internet access, and a warm and friendly staff dedicated to making this journey one to remember.

This trip represents tremendous value! Our price includes
accommodations, most meals and excursions, onboard lectures and entertainment – all pre-paid in dollars to avoid additional expense due to currency fluctuations. Included excursions are complimented by a selection of optional opportunities to allow each one of us to create our perfect adventure – explore further into the countryside or walk the narrow streets and shop the colorful markets of riverside towns.

AND – through our excellent relationship with our friends at
Avalon Waterways, we have been able to secure a savings of $100 per person off the rates shown in this brochure if you confirm your reservation by July 15, 2008. Space on this wonderful holiday adventure will go quickly so please book early to avoid disappointment!

From $2,171 + air.

Brochure (Requires an Adobe pdf reader to view)