Exploring Bordeaux by River: A Journey Aboard the Avalon Artistry II

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to experience Bordeaux in a truly unforgettable way—aboard the Avalon Artistry II. Traveling with a colleague made the journey even more enjoyable, as we explored one of France’s most celebrated regions together. River cruising offered the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery, with each day bringing a new opportunity to experience the culture, history, and flavors that make Bordeaux so special. From medieval villages and legendary vineyards to coastal escapes and vibrant city life, this itinerary delivered a rich and well-rounded perspective of southwestern France.

Château de la Brède
One of the most meaningful excursions was a visit to Château de la Brède, the birthplace of the philosopher Montesquieu, author of The Spirit of Law. Surrounded by a peaceful moat, the château’s fortress-like architecture immediately captured our attention. As we explored the interior, we gained insight into the life and work of Montesquieu and the lasting global influence of his ideas.

Médoc Wine Country
No visit to Bordeaux would be complete without experiencing its world-renowned wines. Our scenic drive through the Médoc region showcased miles of vineyards and stately estates. A guided tasting introduced us to the region’s signature varietals—Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Saint-Émilion
We explored the enchanting medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its cobblestone streets, historic stone buildings, and sweeping vineyard views, the village felt like stepping into another era.

Bordeaux City Tour
A guided walking tour of Bordeaux allowed us to experience the elegance of the city firsthand. From grand squares and tree-lined avenues to stunning cathedrals, every corner revealed something beautiful.

Arcachon
One of the final highlights was a full-day excursion to Arcachon, a picturesque seaside resort along the Atlantic coast. We enjoyed fresh oysters paired with local wine while taking in the coastal scenery.

Paris Extension
After disembarking the cruise on June 16, my colleague and I continued our journey by taking the train to Paris. We spent the day exploring the city aboard a hop-on, hop-off bus, including a memorable stop at Notre Dame, where we were able to go inside and admire its beautifully completed restoration. The following day was spent at Disneyland Paris before flying home on June 18.

Final Thoughts
Traveling through Bordeaux on the Avalon Artistry II was more than just a cruise—it was a journey through history, culture, and cuisine, shared with great company. From vineyard landscapes and historic villages to coastal retreats and city adventures, this trip offered something for every type of traveler.

Interested in your own Avalon adventure? Give Laura a call at 616.942.5112 or email her at !

Handbells, Highlands, and a World United by Music

Handbells and Scotland! What more could a ringer want?

I recently had the pleasure of leading 44 handbell ringers and enthusiasts on a tour of Scotland prior to the 22nd International Handbell Symposium in Aberdeen. Our travels took us through Edinburgh, Stirling, Glasgow, Dunblane, Fort William, Inverness, and other picturesque locations. We explored ancient castles, stood in places steeped in Scottish history, enjoyed local cuisine, and soaked in some of the most breathtaking landscapes imaginable.

As wonderful as the tour was, the highlight for many of us was arriving in Aberdeen for the International Handbell Symposium. Hosted this year by the Handbell Ringers of Great Britain, the event welcomed ringers from Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Japan, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Founded in the early 1980’s by Mrs. Sun-Joo Shin and Mr. David Davidson, the Symposium ethos was to “promote handbells; as a musical art, a means of communication between nations and reaching for world peace through the spirit of music.” The event in Aberdeen certainly upheld these ideals! The excitement of the week even attracted local media attention, with Aberdeen’s Press and Journal highlighting the International Handbell Symposium and the remarkable gathering of handbell musicians from around the world.

Aberdeen was my fourth time attending an International Symposium. Each event begins with a “Friendship Reception” at which attendees exchange small gifts from their perspective countries, begin making new friends and catching up with old ones. The first official event is the Opening Ceremony which includes the moving “Procession of Flags,” sort of like what happens at the Olympics. The week is comprised of mass rehearsals, workshops, with some time for sightseeing.

Held every two years, the International Handbell Symposium is a not to be missed event for Handbell Ringers and enthusiasts. The 23^rd International Handbell Symposium will be held in Singapore the first week of August 2028. A pre-tour is already being worked on!

Interested in more handbell related travels? Check out the 2027 European Handbell Festival!

Munich to Mainz: Highlights from My German River Cruise

Germany has a way of capturing your imagination from the moment you arrive. My journey began in Munich, a city where history and modern life blend effortlessly. Wandering through Marienplatz, I watched the famous Glockenspiel come to life before diving into the colorful stalls of the Viktualienmarkt. A day trip to the fairytale‑like Neuschwanstein Castle felt like stepping into a storybook, and strolling through the expansive English Garden—larger than Central Park—offered a peaceful escape. Of course, no visit to Munich is complete without savoring a perfectly crisp Schnitzel.

From there, I took the train to Nuremberg, a city rich with stories. The Documentation Center provided powerful insight into Germany’s past, while Old Town charmed me with its medieval architecture and warm, freshly baked pretzels. Exploring Nuremberg Castle and visiting the impressive zoo rounded out my stay before I boarded a river cruise along the serene Main River.

Each stop along the cruise revealed something new. Bamberg welcomed us with its UNESCO‑listed old town and tranquil Rose Garden. Rothenburg offered cobblestone streets and preserved medieval walls, while Ochsenfurt showcased classic Bavarian charm. Würzburg dazzled with its Residenz Palace, and Wertheim’s half‑timbered houses made it feel like a hidden gem. Miltenberg, with its historic market square, felt like stepping back in time. The journey ended in Mainz, known for its vibrant old town and impressive cathedral.

Traveling through Germany—especially by river—lets you experience the country at a slower, more meaningful pace. Every stop felt like a new chapter, each with its own beauty, history, and warmth. If you’re dreaming of Europe, Germany’s river towns are ready to welcome you.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey through Germany? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your adventure today: 616.957.8113

Georgia: An Unforgettable Country That Belongs on Your Bucket List

Before this trip, I didn’t know much about the country of Georgia. It was one of those destinations that had quietly lived on the edge of my awareness—occasionally mentioned, rarely considered. From the moment I arrived things just felt… different. It felt like stepping into the middle of a story already in motion—one that didn’t need explaining, just observing.

The landscape was constantly changing. One minute I was surrounded by ancient stone buildings and cobbled alleys, the next I was looking out over wide, green valleys stretching up to meet misty snowcapped mountains. The range and beauty of it all was something I hadn’t anticipated.

But it wasn’t just the scenery that left a mark. It was the way Georgia made space for connection in the little in-between moments. A long meal shared over warm bread and bold wine. A quiet moment in a monastery courtyard. Conversations that flowed easily despite language barriers. An unexpected friend I’ll probably never see again. There was a kind of openness—both in the people and the place—that was hard to miss.

This wasn’t the kind of trip I would have chosen on my own, but I’m so glad I had the chance to go, and I am immeasurably grateful for the opportunity. It reminded me how powerful it can be to step into the unfamiliar. How much you can learn when you let a place speak for itself. I went in not knowing what to expect and came back with a stack of stories I didn’t see coming.

Though I may never return, I’ll be rooting for others to go. Georgia deserves to be seen, tasted, and experienced. And if you go, I have no doubt it’ll surprise you, too.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your perfect Georgian experience today.

Discover Southern Germany: Castles, Countryside & Culinary Delights

I recently had the pleasure of exploring Southern Germany—a region that blends fairytale charm with modern luxury. My journey took me through enchanting places like Metzingen, Konstanz, Breisach, Baden-Baden, and the storied Black Forest.

Along the way, I wandered the grand halls of Hohenzollern Castle, strolled through the vibrant gardens of Mainau Island (aptly called the “Flower Island”), and soaked in the old-world elegance of Baden-Baden. I tasted local wines on countryside vineyard tours, tried my luck at the historic Casino Baden-Baden, and relaxed in the city’s famous thermal baths.

One of my favorite memories? Learning to make authentic Black Forest cake during a hands-on cooking class—delicious and fun! I also enjoyed high-end outlet shopping in Metzingen, scenic ferry rides across Lake Constance, and breathtaking hikes through the Black Forest, known for its cuckoo clocks and sweeping views of the Bavarian Alps.

Southern Germany truly has something for everyone—whether you crave adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Europe’s timeless charm.

Ready to plan your own unforgettable journey? Let’s talk! Reach out to start designing your perfect Southern Germany experience today.

Exploring English: A Traveler’s Journey Through Regional Terms

When traveling, we often encounter words that have different meanings than what we were taught. I am especially aware of this when English is the first language. For example, in the US, Midwesterners call carbonated beverages “pop”, while in the South it is “coke” no matter if a Coke, Fanta, or 7-up. Elsewhere in America? “Soda.”

The difference in word choice is even more exaggerated when the speakers are across the ocean from one another. While on my travels, here are a few of the words that gave me pause as I took a moment to figure out what they meant:

Plaster (Band-Aid)
Jumper (crew neck sweater)
Hoover (vacuum sweeper)
Boot (trunk of car)
Hob (stove top)

What a joy to live in and experience a world of differences!

When and Where to see Tulips in the Netherlands

Seeing tulips in the Netherlands is a draw for many travelers. These colorful flowers symbolize a change in seasons, are synonymous with the history of the Netherlands, and are a current global export. They are a must see!

One question we hear year after year:

When is the best time to see the tulips in the Netherlands?

Mid-April is the textbook answer. However, many people don’t realize that tulip time actually spans from late March through mid-May. You will see tulips in varying amounts through these 8 or so weeks. This means that spring break travelers, cruise travelers, and even early May vacationers will all have an opportunity to see tulips.

Why? The tulip season in my local area doesn’t last that long.

The secret to this unusually long tulip season is the more than 3,000 varieties of tulips spanning 150 species. Over the years, a spectrum of growing periods has evolved. A savvy gardener anywhere can have tulips from March to May. The Dutch have perfected this tulip cultivation strategy in the Netherlands, so you can be sure to see tulips at a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens anytime over the spring—in fact, they guarantee it! This Park has over 7 million tulip bulbs and is the best place to see the many different varieties of tulips.

If you’re heading to the bulb fields in Noord Holland, you’ll still see flowers, but early travelers may see blanketed fields of crocus, hyacinths, or other early spring flowers. The optimum time for seeing tulips in the fields is mid-April.

Red and orange tulip fields in the Netherlands

Not coming to the Netherlands in the Spring?

Even if you plan to visit sometime other than spring, you’ll still be able to see tulips in the Netherlands if you know where to look. The tulip is a commodity that is bought and sold daily. Head to the Royal FloraHolland flower auction in Aalsmeer to see the international flower market as buyers and sellers vie to stock floral shops all over Europe. The Amsterdam Tulip Museum is worth a visit if you want to learn about the history of the flower. They also have a bunch of growing guides if you feel inspired to cultivate this iconic flower in your own garden. If you want to mix tulips and souvenirs, the Floating Flower Market or Bloemenmarkt in Amsterdam has tulips and bulbs for sale year-round.

If you visit the Netherlands in September, you’ll have the pick of flower parades. While they may not showcase tulips, they certainly highlight the Dutch history and love for flowers. The Flower Parade in Zundert is held on the first Sunday in September, and the Flower Parade in Lichtenvoorde is held on the second Sunday in September. The Flower Parade in Winkel is the fourth Sunday of the month. All have giant themed floats colored by flowers, are quite the site to see, and advanced tickets are needed.

Are you ready to book your Spring travel to the Netherlands?

We offer a variety of group tours and vacation packages to choose from, so contact us today to start planning!

Croatia: 10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About

Of the 22 countries that I’ve visited (so far), Croatia ranks among my favorites. And although European vacationers have been coming here for a long time, Croatia has recently become an increasingly popular travel destination among American travelers. But there’s much more to this amazing country than meets the eye.

Continue reading “Croatia: 10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About”

Luther’s Legacy

Experience the Heritage of the Lutheran Faith

A Lutheran heritage tour gives believers an opportunity to enrich their spiritual lives in unexpected ways. Walk in Luther’s humble footsteps across Germany. You can see the house in Eisleben where he was born to the cell in the Fortress of Wartburg where he translated the New Testament into German. Or, visit the Castle Church in Wittenberg where he nailed his 95 Theses. Experience the rich heritage of your Lutheran faith as you visit the world’s largest Reformation memorial in Worms, or stand in St. Thomas Church where Luther first introduced the Reformation in Leipzig in 1539. Travelers return from Lutheran heritage tour refreshed in mind, body, and spirit; ready to share how the tour deepened their faith and enriched their lives.

In 2017, Germany celebrated the Reformation Jubilee, the 500th anniversary of the start of the Reformation. More than 500 years later you can still go and celebrate Martin Luther’s remarkable legacy in the places where it all began!

Where to go:

Eisleben | Where Martin Luther was born, baptized and died.

Eisenach | In 1522, Luther hid from persecution in Wartburg Castle. During his time here he translated the New Testament from Latin to German.

Erfurt | in July 1505, Martin Luther dedicated his life to God, joining the Augustinian Monastery.

Lutherstadt Wittenberg | Where Martin Luther, lived and worked for 35 years. It was on the doors of the Wittenberg Castle Church doors that he posted his 95 theses.

Plan a Lutheran heritage tour today!