Watch this video for a glimpse at what awaits in Norway Get on the list for notification of special values on this and other vacations as they happen by subscribing here.. If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Click here to request your PDF copy. Vibrant Travel researches and plans vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull all the details needed to create memorable hassle-free trips. Call today at 407-517-4744 or schedule a consultation here and end the frustration of doing it all yourself.

Norway is a magical place. There is so much to see and do whether you arrive by plane or cruise ship you will savor every moment and the views are absolutely amazing. The train from Oslo to Bergen, or reverse, is said to be the most beautiful train ride but that is another article. Norway is a beautiful Scandinavian country known for its historical landmarks, Viking heritage, and abundance of natural beauty. There is so much to discover in Norway, from large metropolitan cities to charming fishing villages and picturesque fjords. Whether you are coming for the culture or to spend time outdoors, here are the five must-see cities in the country. OSLO As the capital city of Norway, Oslo is the most visited city in the country. However, unlike most capital cities, Oslo has a unique balance of natural beauty and modern innovations. The city itself overlooks the Oslo Fjords to one side with panoramic mountain views on the other. While you're in Oslo, be sure to check out the Norwegian Folk Museum and Viking Ship Museum for a glimpse into the country's past. Let’s not forget the Royal Palace, Olympic Ski Jump, Vigeland Park and of course the many sidewalk cafes. BERGEN As the second-largest city in Norway, Bergen has a lot to offer. Bergen is a quintessential Norwegian town with old wooden boathouses that date back to the 12th century. The old wharf is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and delights visitors with its old cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. No visit to Bergen is complete without sampling the local seafood! TRONDHEIM Perfectly positioned in the middle of Norway's coastline is the town of Trondheim. As the country's third-largest city and former capital, Trondheim features a vibrant cafe culture in the colorful old quarter. As you walk the city's street, you'll be surrounded by plenty of Norwegian history and culture. Be sure to visit the Nidaros Cathedral while in Trondheim, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world! HENNINGSVAER Located on the Lofoten Islands is the charming fishing village of Henningsvaer. Located just inside the Arctic Circle, the town is known for its brightly painted houses that rise out of the sea and stand out against the harsh elements. Throughout the year, the town can experience beautifully clear days with 24-hours of sunlight or be completely blanketed in fresh snow. One of the best ways to experience Henningsvaer is to charter a boat and take a cruise around the islands. TROMSO Despite its remote location deep within the Arctic Circle, Tromso is one of Norway's most beautiful cities. Not only is it known for being a fantastic place to see the Northern Lights, but visitors can also enjoy dog sledding, spot reindeer, and tour centuries-old houses in this arctic winter wonderland. No matter where you choose to travel in Norway, you’ll be treated to breathtaking natural beauty, amazing wildlife, and stunning architecture that will leave you in awe. If this small sample sounds amazing, watch for future articles on both Bergen and Oslo. A Fjords cruise or Northern Lights cruise are extremely popular and the perfect was to see the country and enter the arctic circle! Click here to see an ocean cruise itinerary in Norway. Vibrant Travel researches and plans vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull all the details needed to create memorable hassle-free trips. Call today at 407-517-4744 or schedule a consultation here and end the frustration of doing it all yourself. Get on the list for notification of special values on this and other vacations as they happen by subscribing here.. If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Click here to request your PDF copy.

It's no secret that Amsterdam is an exciting place to visit. With its rich history, artistic legacy, intricate canal system, and abundance of museums, you will find that something for everyone. One of the great things about Amsterdam is that you choose how to get there. To help you on your journey, here are the top 5 things to do while you're in Amsterdam. 1. Take a historical canal ride. The water tours of Amsterdam are some of the most desired experiences. There are hundreds of canals throughout the nation that were created just for travel, maybe not leisure travel but give them a try. During your gentle water ride, you'll get to view the country's most detailed architecture and beautiful landscapes. 2. Take a walk through the wildflowers. Amsterdam takes great pride in its bulb flowers, especially tulips. Visit the amazingly vibrant bulb flower park in Lisse to see the tulips in all their glory. If you happen to miss the tulip season, don't worry. There are plenty of other bulbed flowers to see at the park. 3. Anne Frank House. Amsterdam’s most visited attraction, the Anne Frank Huis is located on the Prinsengracht canal. The structure that once hid Anne Frank and her family from the Nazi authorities during World War II has been viewed as a memorial to the Holocaust since 1947. It was that year that Anne’s father published the diary that Anne wrote while they lived hidden within the building. View the rooms where Anne lived as well as exhibits that chronicle life. 4. Rijksmuseum. No trip to Amsterdam is complete until you visit the Rijksmuseum. This museum is arguably the most important of the nation’s arts and history museums. With more than one million artifacts dating from the 13th century onward, it is not to be missed. The museum opened in 1885 and currently has approximately 8,000 objects on display, the most famous include paintings by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vemeer. Rembrandt’s masterpiece Night Watch is worth the price of admission alone. 5. Koninklijk Paleis One of three royal palaces in the Netherlands, the Koninklijk Paleis in Amsterdam is located on the western side of Dam Square in the center of the city. The 17th structure was converted into a palace during the Napoleonic Wars when Napoleon’s brother Louis was crowned King Louis I of Holland. The interior is a premier example of the elaborate Empire style of the early 1800s. The palace is still used by the Dutch Royal House for Royal events but is open to the public for most of the year. To see the Tulip Time River Cruise itinerary that includes Amsterdam click here. To see the Holland and Belgium River Cruise itinerary that includes Amsterdam click here. Get on the list for notification of special values on this and other vacations as they happen by subscribing here.. If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Click here to request your PDF copy. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us save you time searching the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

Things to do in Cologne. With history dating back to the 1st century, the city of Cologne, Germany has a unique vibe and plenty to see and do. Cologne, the fourth largest city in Germany, boasts everything from pre-war cathedrals to modern examples of architectural genius. But, if you only have a day to spend there, what’s most important? Here are a few must-do excursions to enjoy Cologne in a day. 1. Cologne Cathedral: Just a couple of blocks from the river is the Cologne Cathedral. With a 13th century foundation, the cathedral’s spires seem to reach all the way to heaven, dominating the city’s skyline. This Gothic building erected for the practice of German Catholicism is one of the most visited landmarks in all of Germany. From stunning stained glass to holy relics, the Cologne Cathedral has it all. For an extra challenge, climb the more than 500 steps to the top of the spire for a unique view of the city of Cologne. Souvenirs from the city of Cologne can be purchased from nearby Kolne Souvenirs Linke. 2. Café Reichard: After climbing all those stairs in the cathedral, you might be ready for a sweet treat. Just a short walk down the street from the cathedral is the gorgeous Café Reichard featuring some of the most delectable bakery products you’ll ever experience. With options like truffles, pralines, cakes, marzipan items, and other baked goods, you’ll no doubt want to have a few there and take some to-go. 3. The Elves of Cologne: Heinzelmannchen: As you traverse the city, be sure to be on the lookout for The Elves of Cologne. Sprinkled throughout the city, carved in small monuments and ornaments, are whimsical elves who are sure to bring a smile to your face. 4. Historic Old Town: Featuring cobblestone alleyways filled with hidden pubs and restaurants surrounded by colorful houses, the adorable allure of Old Town can’t be missed. Here you’ll find a selection of art museums and other important points-of-interest, including the Lindt Chocolate Factory. Who doesn’t love one of their amazing truffles? At the factory, you can see how they are made and even make your own. Be sure to check out the nearby Fragrance Museum, too. You can’t visit Cologne without learning about cologne! 5. Fruh: Fruh is home to one of Cologne’s best authentic brewery atmospheres. Here, you’ll connect with locals and tourists alike. Since 1904, they have not only been serving up some of the best German dishes, but have been offering unique beer tasting experiences, as well. Kolsch beer tastings are popular in Cologne, but at Fruh, they have a unique style for keeping up with how many you’ve had. The beer, served in small glasses on a coaster, is continually refilled until you place your coaster on top of your glass to indicate that you are done. In the meantime, servers mark your coaster to indicate how many glasses you’ve had. Be prepared to share a long table with other customers, as Fruh is a busy place! Put on your walking shoes and get ready to see one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Enjoy all of the sights, sounds and tastes Cologne has to offer! If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Click here to request your PDF copy. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us save you time searching the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

What makes Salzburg, Austria so special? Why should you choose to spend your vacation here instead of one of the many beautiful places in the world? One look at the breathtaking views of a city with the alps as a backdrop will tell you why visitors just fall in love with the city. Let’s see what else makes this destination worth a visit. If you are a fan of “The Sound of Music” then you will be in heaven here. See St Michaels Church in nearby Mondsee where Maria walked and Captain von Trapp married. Salzburg is spattered with sites where the Children’s singing lessons took place. Mirabell Palace and Gardens was built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau for his mistress and their children. The Palace was called Altenau until after his death when his successor re-named it Mirabell. The massive Palace and Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you walk through the gardens with flowers all in bloom, the snow-capped alps in the distance, you can’t help but think of the Sound of Music. The site is so beautiful that it was used as a backdrop for many scenes in the film. Make sure you see the fountains, rose garden, orangery, and what is said to be the most beautiful place to be married, the Mirabell Palace Marble Hall. If you want to see Salzburg in all its grandeur, you can’t go wrong by visiting the iconic and popular sightseeing spot in Salzburg; The Fortress Hohensalzburg, the largest fully preserved castle in Europe. It sits majestically atop a hill overlooking Salzburg and offers the most magnificent 360-degree views of the city. It is something you’ll never forget! Whether you’re a Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s fan or not, you cannot help but think of him as you walk this beautiful city. Both his birthplace and his residence are now museums. This city so loves Mozart that you will find everything from chocolates to statues of him throughout the city. Take a tour and see the streets he ran through as a child, the walls he touched, and so many textual and visual presentations of his life and works. You are likely to hear a concert or two as well. Another iconic site making Salzburg worth visiting is the 17th century baroque Salzburg Cathedral. Originally built in 774, this cathedral was rebuilt multiple times before the final appearance you see today. You’ll want to stop by Mozartplatz square nearby to see a few more museums including the Christmas museum. There are many little town squares worth exploring to absorb the essence of this wonderful place. In summary, Salzburg is a perfect blend of modern structures and romantic buildings and fortresses. It's a charming city with a breathtaking landscape and fresh picture-worthy spots. If you’re a lover of culture, architecture, music, or aesthetically pleasing settings, Salzburg, Austria, is the perfect place for you to visit. To see an itinerary that includes Salzburg click here To see an itinerary that includes Salzburg Christmas Market click here If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Click here to request your PDF copy. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us save you time searching the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

14 Countries, 7 Rivers, 45 Nights, and Countless Memories - Spring Version With the landscape in bloom, this journey will tickle all of your senses. Experience exquisite cuisine, cultures, architecture, castles, history, gardens, a concert in Vienna, and even a steam train ride! This trip is full of exclusive experiences and sure to be full of wonderful memories. River Cruise ships are smaller, have less people onboard, and offer a more intimate and immersive experiences. Imagine stepping off the ship and right into the town your are visiting. Explore on your own or take one of the many included tours. Take a look, I'm sure you will be dreaming. It's time! The summer version was so popular that this new Spring trip was added. See more here or call us with your questions. Save your cabin while they are still available. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic journeys, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us declutter the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

Seven Rivers, 14 Countries, Countless Memories. This short video takes you on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through Europe on a 46-night dream trip. If you been waiting for something special, a Spring 2023 sailing has just been added. Call us for more information and to hold your space. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us declutter the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

One of the many included excursions on the Colors of Provence sailing. Truffles have long been a treasure find in dishes from Michelin rated restaurants around the world. Of course, many of the best hail from France where, along with fine wines and chocolate, they are one of the country’s most highly prized epicurean delicacies and aphrodisiacs. And no, these aren’t the chocolate sold in Godiva. Earthy and robust and from the mushroom family, truffles are sometimes referred to as “the diamonds of the kitchen.” Indeed, they are often sprinkled over dishes to elevate a good meal into something much more extraordinary and have been highly sought after since Greek and Roman times. They are grown underground and are among the most expensive foods, selling with certain varieties selling upwards of several hundreds of dollars per pound (or between one hundred and two hundred an ounce)! Join AmaWaterways on a visit to one of France’s most distinguished truffle growing regions and visit a beautiful truffle farm to observe specially-trained dogs in action as they hunt for these treasures. Truffles are so elusive that neither man nor machine can locate them on their own, relying on canines’ keen sense of smell to find the fungus, which grows underground. A variety of dogs can sniff around and be truffle hunters, including Labrador Retrievers and Lagotto Romagnolos. However, they must first go through a special training process, teaching the dog to be alert for the particular aroma since the fungus is not something a dog would usually look for on its own. Farmers teach their dogs these new tricks in several different ways, often coating an item in truffle oil and having the dog fetch it in return for either a doggie treat, play toy or fun playtime. Truffles are predominately grown near oak trees (and sometimes fragrant fields of lavender) so a walk through a truffle farm is always a lovely, scenic route. Made more so by man’s best friend. In previous times, pigs were usually used to search for the tricky truffles but nowadays, the truffle hunter scours the farm with his truffle-hunting dogs in tow. When the dog smells the truffle’s aroma, he either marks it with his paw or begins digging it up himself. Either way, the hunter must hurry to scoop it up and then reward his (or her) buddy with a special doggie treat. It’s a charming ritual that has been taking place for years and yet still continues in this day where technology seems to have overtaken nearly everything else—and so is quite a delight to see! While harvest season runs in the winter, roughly from November to March, one can enjoy truffles all year round in the form of popular kitchen staples, such as truffle-flavored olive oil and truffle salt. Be inspired by your visit to add fresh truffles or truffle-flavored products into your own cooking at home for a special, decadent twist! After the tour, the group will head to the charming town of Grignan to visit a Renaissance Chateau perched on a hill surrounded by lavender fields. Along with the truffles unearthed in this region, this Provencal town is known for its picturesque red-tiled roofs, tree-lined, winding streets, open-air cafes and colorful markets. Go in search of Avignon's highly prized "Black Diamond" truffles during the Colors of Provence river cruise. To see the Colors of Provence river cruise click here Article and photos courtesy of AmaWaterways Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic journeys, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us declutter the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

Get those special touches and VIP treatment for your cruise when booking with Vibrant Travel and Distinctive Voyages Sail the seven seas, and rivers too, and let the world unfold around you. From world cruises to weekend getaways, we can help you find the Distinctive Voyages sailing that is best for you. Enjoy the services of a Distinctive Voyages Host, a Private Welcome Reception and an Exclusive Shore Event, all compliments of our Agency, when you book with us! Contact our travel agency today! See the brochure by clicking here Watch the Video Below Distinctive Voyages are available on select River and Ocean Cruises. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic journeys, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us declutter the internet and plan your next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

Amazing Journeys through France with AmaWaterways. This video discusses wonderful cruises through the heart of France that can be both standard cruises and wine cruises; These cruises offer wine tastings and exclusive festivals, wonderful gastronomic delights, amazing landscapes, and historic architecture. Enjoy the video. To see the Itinerary for Taste of Bordeaux click here *Promotional offers may have expired. Please contact Vibrant Travel for current offers. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic journeys, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us declutter the internet and plan you next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

Rambling vineyards and charming native farms cling to the steep sides of the Douro River Valley, creating an incomparable backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions and to Port country— the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Sail roundtrip from Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges”; visit Regua, the ‘capital’ of the Douro Valley; and marvel at Salamanca, the UNESCO-designated “Golden City.” Taste wines from historic wineries and soak up the genuine beauty of one of Europe’s most unadulterated landscapes. Additional Photos

I love to cruise, my friends love to cruise, my clients love to cruise. But here we are. Some cruises will be starting this summer but so far, not from US ports. If you want to start dreaming of travel again but know it might be a while before you can get back on a cruise ship here is an alternative to consider. All-Inclusive Resorts offer many things you might find on a cruise and then some. The Casino - Put a check by that one. Many resorts have casinos or are affiliated with the casino next door. And you just might get some room coupons to use for the slots or tables there too. Beverage Package - Ah, the beverage package, enabling you too enjoy your cruise that much more. It’s included in an all-inclusive resort. Yep, included. Drink at the bars, plural, within the hotel or other affiliated hotels. Your in-room mini bar may even be restocked daily as part of your package. Champagne anyone? The Food - Maybe you won’t find a buffet right now, but yes, the food in included and there are several restaurants to choose from including snacks at the swim up bar. They range from snacks to elegant dining with all different types of cuisine. The Pool - Maybe your resort has one, maybe two, maybe more. Forget the walk back to your room, just swim to it. Many resorts offer swim out rooms. Some even have your own private pool or hot tub. The Beach - You love the beach excursions when you’re in port, right? Walk out of your room onto a beautiful beach. Maybe even sunbath with pink flamingos. Need a cabana, grab one. Many are free. Non-motorized water sports are included. No rental fees. Try kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing, catamarans, floats, a free scuba lesson, or other activities. Yes, you can also try more adventurous things that will have a cost if you are bored. Deck Party without the Deck - The parties are included too. Some with themes just like on the ships. Music, dancing, clubs, shows, or just relax under the stars. Other Activities - Try yoga, biking, exercise classes, volleyball, a free tennis lesson, maybe try a flying trapeze, aerial silk, or trampoline Cirque style? Resorts offer such a myriad of inclusions depending on the resort location and room. Don’t worry about gratuities either, yes, I’m going to say those words again…included. Pampering – They know how to pamper. Breakfast in bed, champagne delivered to your room. A welcome drink or fruit platter upon arrival. Maybe a spa credit to put toward a wonderful massage to relax and get ready to enjoy your vacation. Adults and Family resorts - All- Inclusive resorts come in all shapes and sizes. Family, Adult, Couples, Singles, Way-Too-Adult for Families. You name it. If you are traveling with family, some resorts offer kids-stay-free benefits! Stay for a while - Get to know the area. You will have plenty of time here and don’t have to rush back to the ship. Try the ruins in Mexico, the diverse terrain in Aruba, explore the Pitons in St Lucia. Destinations - There are all-inclusive resorts around the globe and not just at the beach. Popular destinations in the Caribbean include Aruba, Antigua, Bahamas, Belize, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Mexico, St Lucia and more. Cost - All Inclusive resorts run the gamut from reasonable to wonderfully luxurious. With everything included the value is there no matter which resort style you choose. Your travel advisor will find out what you like to do on vacation and find an all-inclusive resort to match your style. Another reason to use an advisor is to look into the current health situation and requirements for your destination. They vary greatly and are rapidly changing. Advisors have resources to find the information for you. Many resorts are offering complimentary COVID testing on-site for your return flight to the US. So, if you love what cruising has to offer and are really anxious to plan something in a tropical location, give an all-inclusive resort a try for now. Go for a long weekend to try it or stay ten days if you like. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic journeys, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Let us declutter the internet and plan you next amazing vacation. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744